Wolfspidermum

No, that's not some sort of new woolly spider (perish the thought). That's yet another spidermum with her spiderlings. In this case, it's a wolf spider.

Danielle had a recent encounter with a wolf spidermum, and it wasn't a pleasant experience for anyone involved. She decided to share this image with us as a cathartic exercise.

Wolf spiders are unique in the spider world both for carrying around their eggsac wherever they go (even while hunting), and later for carrying around the spiderlings on their backs. That's dedication.

I can't find out exactly when the babies decide to leave their mother's back and strike out into the world on their own. I assume it's after they graduate from High School (though they're probably home schooled) and once they're gainfully employed.

Photo from The Herbs Place via Danielle