Carolina wolf spider (Hogna carolinensis)
Photo: blazeclaw / CC BY 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Arachnid · Other spider

Carolina wolf spider care guide

Hogna carolinensis

Beginner

The carolina wolf spider is a beginner-level other spider from USA, N Mexico. Adults reach Body 2–3.5 cm and live 1–3 years in captivity. Burrows in deep, slightly damp soil; offer a starter hole and a water dish.

  • Enclosure 30 × 20 × 20 cm
  • Temp 21–27°C
  • Humidity 50–65%
Plan this build Best plants for this animal

How much does a carolina wolf spider cost in Canada?

Animal$15–40Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$80–140Enclosure $30–60 · equipment $20–40 · bioactive supplies ≈ $40
Yearly upkeep$20–40Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$120–220All prices CAD, estimates

Carolina wolf spider quick facts

Skill level
Beginner
Adult size
Body 2–3.5 cm
Lifespan
1–3 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
USA, N Mexico
Minimum enclosure
30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
21–27°C
Humidity
50–65%
UVB
Not needed
Diet
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
Bioactive style
Burrowing tarantula

Carolina wolf spider enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a burrowing tarantula bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Tarantula Mix10 cm

Deep, slightly packed soil lets burrows hold their shape. Moisten the lower layers; the top can be drier.

Temperature: 21–27°C. Humidity: 50–65%. UVB: Not needed.

What does a carolina wolf spider eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–3 crickets weekly.

Handling, temperament & health

Fast and may bite if pinned, though the venom is mild; use a cup.

Health watch: Watch for dehydration and molt problems; keep the lower substrate slightly moist and leave the burrow undisturbed.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Visual check only.

Weekly

  • Offer food at the burrow entrance; remove leftovers.
  • Refill water; moisten one corner so the deep soil stays damp.

Monthly

  • Check moisture deep down by pouring a little water at the edge.

Yearly

  • Rehouse as the spider grows.

Recommended for a carolina wolf spider bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 20 × 20 cm).

Jurassic ABG Tarantula Mix Jurassic ABG Tarantula Mix Bioactive soil layer, 10 cm Qty: 1 × 9Lfrom $15.99 Mini Oak Leaves 20/Pack Mini Oak Leaves 20/Pack Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew Qty: 1 pack$13.99 Cork Bark Half Rounds Cork Bark Half Rounds Bury half of it in the soil to start a burrow Qty: 1 × Smallfrom $8.99

Carolina wolf spider FAQ

Is the carolina wolf spider good for beginners?

Yes – the carolina wolf spider is a good choice for beginners. Fast and may bite if pinned, though the venom is mild; use a cup.

What size enclosure does a carolina wolf spider need?

At least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (about 12 × 8 × 8 inches, roughly 3 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a carolina wolf spider cost in Canada?

Typically $15–40 CAD to buy, about $80–140 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $20–40 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a carolina wolf spider need?

Temperature: 21–27°C. Humidity: 50–65%.

What does a carolina wolf spider eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–3 crickets weekly.

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This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.