Venatrix species?

Fact Box Species: Venatrix species? (identification based on a recent publication by Volker Framenau) Family: Lycosidae Body length: female: perhaps 15-20 mm male: perhaps 14-18 mm Habitat: In a burrow in the ground, the entrance probably lacking a door Toxicity: Uncertain; may cause mild illness or necrotising arachnidism but bitings that lead to serious problems appear to be uncommon

Front view

This relatively common lycosid species has surface markings that are not easy to distinguish from other members of the same family. However, the pair of large, forward-looking eyes leave no doubt that it belongs in the lycosid family.

Wolf spiders are notable vagrants and can sometimes be found outside the burrow foraging for insects.

Spider(s) with a very similar appearance: Venatrix furcillata and Lycosa godeffroyi.