Photograph
Wolf Spider (Family Lycosidae)
At high magnification, the face of a wolf spider reveals an intricate arrangement of eight eyes, powerful chelicerae, and delicate sensory hairs. Although impressive at this scale, most members of the family are harmless to humans and play an important role in controlling populations of small invertebrates.
Beyond the frame
Unlike most spiders, wolf spiders do not wait for prey to become trapped in a web. They actively hunt using both keen eyesight and the sensitive hairs on their legs, which detect even the faintest vibrations. Females also display remarkable parental care: after hatching, the spiderlings climb onto their mother's back and remain there until they are ready to fend for themselves.
Collection
Life Up Close