Spider Sense

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This is the first edition of the W.O.L.F. Den, a place for current and past W.O.L.F.s to hang out occasionally, connect with nature and stay separated and healthy.
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On the Little Sac hike, several of you found spiders that we photographed for identification.  Most people call any large spider a "wolf spider" automatically.  That is like calling every snake a "copperhead".   More on that later, but first let's find some spiders.....at night!

Barb and I went out last night to find spiders that hunt in the dark.  She spotted the one above in the grass with her special "spider sense."  This isn't the same as Spider-Man's, but it is cool and you too could develop it.  All it takes is a flashlight and some practice.  You will be looking for tiny bright spots in the distance called "eye shine."

Many animals hunt at night and have a reflective layer in the eyes.  This gives them better night vision and also reflects light like a mirror.  (Try that in your dark bathroom with a mirror.)  You may have seen this in the car when a deer or racoon is in the headlights.

Here is another one that Barb found with her "spider sense."  She wanted to find one on a tree where she could see it better.  You can see it to the right.  Now Barb will show you her "spider sense" in this video.  See if you can spot the spider before I did.  Click on it now and don't worry, we will still be here when you get back.

Now Barb will show you how to have your own "spider sense."  Hold a flashlight as close to your eyes as possible (a head lamp is even better so your hands are empty).  Barb shows you both methods here.
If it is daytime, try this with your dog in the bathroom with the lights off.  If you have a cat.....lots of luck!

Now when you go out at night, start looking 10 feet or more ahead.  When you see a tiny speck of light, focus on it and walk up closer until you find a spider.  You will be surprised at how small a spider you can find.  Here is a little spider that Barb found.  I put in a bug box for a picture before releasing it where we found it.
Barb's final find

Now head out into your yard or park.  Cultivated yards don't have as many species as you find in nature but it is worth a try.  Focus on the spot as you walk up to it and amaze your friends with your "spider sense."   You will find things they can't.  No need to explain your spider powers..... it will be our secret.

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