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National Distribution

About this species

Recorded altitude range
3m to 170m

Species text

Distribution
The species is restricted to southern England where it is widespread in an area of Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire, but very scattered elsewhere. It has recently been recorded from Great Orme in North Wales in 2002. It is widespread in north-western and central Europe, but has not been recorded from Ireland.

Habitat and ecology
Calcareous grassland and heathland. The spider is probably most frequent on chalk grassland, under stones. It is also sometimes found on dry heathland, mostly between about 6 to 12 years after fire. Adults of both sexes are found from May to July.

Status
Recorded from 19 hectads since 1992. This very local spider is never particularly numerous, but there is no evidence of decline.

Threats
The loss of chalk grassland and dry heathland to agriculture. Scrubbing over of heathland and chalk grassland.

Management and conservation
Maintain seral stages of heathland by rotational management, and maintain chalk grassland by traditional grazing.

Text based on Dawson, I.K., Harvey, P.R., Merrett, P. & Russell-Smith, A.R. (in prep.).  References

Adult Season

Habitats

background methodology

Recorded management for locations with Drassyllus praeficus

Recorded substrate and hydrology for locations with Drassyllus praeficus

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