Everything You Need to Know About Keeping a Jumping Spider as a Pet
Jumping spiders are among the most fascinating and endearing arachnids you can keep as pets. With their curious behavior, impressive jumping skills, and surprisingly interactive nature, these tiny creatures make excellent companions for spider enthusiasts and beginner exotic pet keepers alike.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about caring for jumping spiders—from choosing the right species to creating a suitable habitat and ensuring they thrive in your home.
Why Choose a Jumping Spider as a Pet?
Jumping spiders (family Salticidae) are small, intelligent arachnids known for their excellent vision and active behavior. Unlike other spiders, they don’t spin webs to catch prey. Instead, they use their powerful legs to leap onto their target with precision. They also display inquisitive behavior, often observing their surroundings—and even their human caretakers.
Key Advantages:
- Low maintenance
- Require minimal space
- Not aggressive toward humans
- Fascinating to watch
- No need for live plants or expensive setups
Best Jumping Spider Species for Beginners
Not all jumping spiders are equally suited to captivity, but the following species are beginner-friendly, hardy, and widely available:
- Phidippus regius (Regal jumping spider): One of the most popular pet species. Bold, colorful, and friendly.
- Phidippus audax (Bold jumping spider): Black with white markings and green chelicerae; great hunters and fairly docile.
- Menemerus bivittatus (Gray wall jumper): Often found in warmer climates and highly active.
- Platycryptus undatus (Tan jumping spider): Calm and shy but still interactive.
Housing Requirements
Enclosure Size
A small container is sufficient, but bigger isn’t always better. A vertical enclosure around 4″ x 4″ x 6″ is ideal for a single jumping spider.
Recommended materials: Plastic deli cups, small acrylic display cases, or glass terrariums with ventilation.
Ventilation
Proper airflow is critical. Ensure there are small ventilation holes or mesh sections, but be cautious—they can escape through even tiny gaps.
Substrate
Use a thin layer of substrate to help maintain humidity. Suitable substrates include:
- Coco fiber
- Paper towel (easier to clean)
- Soil (no fertilizer or pesticides)
Climbing and Enrichment
Jumping spiders love to climb and explore. Include:
- Twigs or branches
- Fake plants
- Cork bark
- Small decorations
Make sure all items are stable and do not risk collapsing on the spider.
Temperature and Humidity
- Temperature: 70–80°F (21–27°C) is ideal. Room temperature usually suffices.
- Humidity: Moderate. Mist lightly every 2–3 days.
- Always allow a dry area inside the enclosure to prevent mold and stress.
Feeding and Nutrition
Jumping spiders are carnivorous and rely on live prey.
Preferred Foods:
- Fruit flies (Drosophila)
- Small crickets
- Pinhead roaches
- Houseflies
- Moths or small insects caught outside (only if pesticide-free)
Feeding Tips:
- Feed 2–3 times per week.
- Offer prey about the same size or smaller than the spider.
- Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours.
Handling and Behavior
Jumping spiders are generally calm and rarely bite unless mishandled.
Handling Tips:
- Start by letting them crawl onto your hand.
- Avoid grabbing or pinching.
- Always supervise handling near edges or open spaces—they jump fast and far!
Many jumping spiders learn to recognize their keepers and may even watch you with curiosity.
Molting and Growth
Spiders molt to grow, shedding their old exoskeletons.
Signs of molting:
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Hanging upside-down in a web hammock
Do not disturb your spider during this time. After molting, wait 2–3 days before feeding.
Health and Lifespan
Jumping spiders are generally hardy but can be prone to dehydration or injury from falls.
Lifespan: Most live between 1 to 2 years, depending on species and care.
Common issues:
- Mold in enclosure
- Injury from high falls
- Dehydration
- Stress from over-handling
Regular spot-cleaning, safe enclosures, and gentle care will keep your spider happy and healthy.
Breeding Jumping Spiders (Advanced)
Breeding should only be attempted by experienced keepers.
- Introduce male and female in a neutral space.
- Monitor closely—females may become aggressive.
- After mating, the female may lay an egg sac and guard it.
- Spiderlings will need separate enclosures once they reach a certain size.
Final Thoughts
Jumping spiders are captivating and surprisingly interactive pets. With simple housing, regular feeding, and respect for their space, they’ll reward you with delightful behavior and curious interactions.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a low-maintenance exotic pet or a seasoned arachnid enthusiast, jumping spiders are a joy to keep and observe.
