ID Assistance

[sarahaleen]

I'm sure this is a harmless spider but of course my friends have me worried. Can anyone assist? I apologize that the picture is not clearer, it wouldn't sit still long. Its obvious that it has an egg sac attached to it, i moved it to some trees in the back of my property so they wouldn't hatch in my garage. this was found june 5, 2012 in indianapolis indiana.

[Whitlock]

Hi Sarah, welcome to the forum!

Due to the picture quality, a specific species ID is impossible. I believe this is a wolf spider though. Wolf spiders carry their eggsacs as shown until they hatch. Once the eggs hatch, the spiderlings climb onto mommas back until they are ready to fend for themselves.

Don't let your friends worry you too much, very few spiders are considered dangerous, none of which are wolf spiders. The best course of action is the one you took. Kudos for not bringing down a heavy foot on her. I'm sure she is much happier outside.

[Eric]

Hi, Sarah:

I echo Whitlock's identification as well as their compliments on your positive attitude :-)

[Phil]

Really weird angle. I was confused the first time looking at it, but I think the photo is showing the spiders posterior in the air?