Description

At up to 80mm in legspan, the female Hoggicosa bicolor is one of Australia’s largest wolf spiders and easily the most beautiful. This species is widespread throughout central Australia’s deserts but is an uncommon species. The species has multiple regional variations, with those from the south-eastern part of their range being a rich yellow and those from the northern part being larger with more extensive areas of cream coloured patterning. This species can also make multiple types of burrow even within the same population, with both wafer and plug type trapdoors, open burrows and burrows closed with pebbles being common. The male Hoggicosa bicolor is a rich reddish-brown with a metallic sheen, and while lacking in colouration compared to the female makes up for it with their large size and fiery temperament.

During the day these spiders avoid the desert heat by remaining in a silk lined burrow. At night time they will sit on the surface near their burrow waiting for prey to walk by.

Hoggicosa bicolor are a sensitive species and require an expert level of care. They can be somewhat challenging to feed and will often not feed while on the surface/during the day. Most individuals feed best when they have constructed a burrow to feel safe. We have found a deep clay substrate is most effective way to stimulate the burrowing and feeding behaviour. They must also have some ventilation but not be allowed to completely dry out. We do not recommend handling this species as they are quite defensive.

This is the first time this species has been properly offered to the hobby.

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