Good Fathers of the Animal Kingdom: Wolf Spiders

Wolf spiders are known for their exceptional paternal care, which is somewhat unusual among arachnids. Here’s an example of how wolf spiders exhibit good fathering behavior:

1. Nurturing Egg Sac 

After mating, female wolf spiders produce an egg sac containing numerous eggs. Instead of abandoning the eggs, as seen in many other spider species, wolf spider fathers actively participate in protecting and caring for the egg sac. The male wolf spider may guard the egg sac, keeping it safe from predators and environmental threats. By doing so, the male ensures the survival of his offspring even before they hatch.

2. Transporting Egg Sac 

In some wolf spider species, males take on the responsibility of transporting the egg sac, sometimes attaching it to their bodies. This behavior, known as ‘guarding and transport,’ allows the male to ensure the safety of the developing eggs while also enabling the female to focus on foraging and other essential activities. The male carries the egg sac with him as he moves around, carefully tending to it until the eggs hatch.

3. Regulating Temperature 

Male wolf spiders also regulate the temperature and humidity
of the egg sac to optimize conditions for embryo development. They may adjust their
positioning in response to environmental factors, such as sunlight and moisture levels, to
provide the ideal conditions for the eggs’ growth. This paternal investment increases the
likelihood of successful hatching and the survival of the spiderlings.

4. Assisting Spiderlings 

Once the eggs hatch, the male wolf spider continues to play a role in caring for the spiderlings. He may assist them in dispersal by carrying them on his back, providing protection and transportation to new habitats. This behavior increases the spiderlings’ chances of survival during the vulnerable early stages of their lives.

These examples demonstrate the remarkable paternal care exhibited by wolf spiders, challenging conventional notions of parental roles in arachnids. Through their nurturing behaviors, male wolf spiders contribute significantly to the survival and success of their offspring, highlighting the complexity of parental care strategies in the animal kingdom.


In celebration of all good fathers,

Cortney and Val

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