Care of Jumping Spiders

The family Salticide

Jumping spiders are one of the largest groups of spiders, belong to the family Salticidae, which holds over 6000 individual species. They are found worldwide from tropical rainforest to desert climates on nearly every continent. Some species such as Himalayan jumping spider have even been found at elevations of 22,000 feet on mount Everest.

The most prominent distinction from other families of spiders is the eye pattern. Like all spiders, they possess eight eyes. However, jumping spiders have one pair of larger central eyes called the anterior median eyes, with three pairs of smaller eyes. These larger eyes are one of the reasons they have grown in popularity in the pet trade as it gives them a intelligent and inquisitive look.

Sizes varies among species with the largest being around 1 inch in length. Many species will boast a vibrant color patterns with some of the most color species of arachnids such as the peacock spider. Others mimic the patterns colors of more dangerous insects, while others use camouflaged to blend into their environment.

Enclosures and Enviorment

Most jumping spiders in the hobby are terrestrial and do better with taller enclosures. These are often very small spiders so don't require  huge spaces.  They do appreciate space to explore an adult regal jumping spider do well in a 4x4x8 enclosure or larger. There are many options for housing, from Tupperware, acrylic or clear plastic hobby boxes, or any number or invertebrate terrariums on the market. All terrariums must have some form of ventilation, and you are making your own be sure that the ventilation holes are small enough that the spider can not escape. 

Decorations and hides

You can decorate the enclosure with branches, cork bark, plants or other items. These will help provide space to climb and hide.  Substrate such as coco fiber or paper towels should be used to help maintain humidity and absorbed some of the waste to reduce cleaning time

Providing a hide helps makes your spider feel more secure. They will often build their web next in these hides. Cleaned out walnut shells, silk moth cocoons, or even 3d printed hides are readily available online or you can make your own. Its best to attached them with small magnets so they can be removed for easy cleanup. 

Environment

Each species come from different environments. Many do well at room temperature but more tropical species will need heating mats. Typical temperature ranges from 68-78F. Be sure to look up your specific species requirements. 

Humidity should be maintained in their natural ranges as well. A fine mist spray bottle should be used with filtered or distilled water. A shallow water dish can be provided as well small stones to be keep any invertebrates from falling in. 

lighting

Jumping spiders are diurnal meaning they are active during the day.  A light source should be provided with light cycle to keep them regulated. LEDs are the best option to prevent excessive heat buildup. 

Cleaning

Enclosures should be kept clean with the removal of waste and discarded prey. Use a wet q-top of forceps to remove these. Jumping spiders will build webs all around the enclosure which should be left in place as this helps them to move around easily. A deep clean should be done monthly or when the cage starts to be too soiled. 

Feeding and water

Jumping spiders are very good hunters, able to take down prey twice their size. Its recommended to not exceed 1.51 the size of the spider however to prevent damage while catching the prey. Typical foods used are fruit flies, crickets, mealworms, flies or small roaches. 

Feedings should be done twice weekly 

Jumping spiders can drink water from a small shallow dish or from misting. A fine mist spray bottle should be used with filtered or distilled water. A shallow water dish can be provided as well small stones to be keep any invertebrates from falling in.  

Molting

Like all Invertebrates, spiders grow by molting. Depending on species and sex, most will molt 6-9 times.  The molting processes can take up to two weeks. Jumping spiders will spin a nest web where they will hide during molting. If you notice your spider hiding in its web for several days, remove all prey and leave them be until they finish. Once completely harden they  will push their old skin out of the next and begin exploring again for more food. At this point you can start feeding them again. 

handling 

handling jumping spiders should be done with care as they are small and easily squished. use q-tips or soft object to coerces them where you would like them to go. Be sure to hold them over soft surfaces incase they decide to jump.   

For new spiders its best to go slow and allow them to move as needed around your hand so they feel less threatened. With more and more interactions, they will begin to recognize you and even willingly come out onto your hand.

Some of the larger species are capable of biting if threatened. Bites feel like bee stings and are typically harmless.  In rare instances allergic reactions can happen. Should you experience an allergic reaction contact emergency services immediately.