Jumping Spider Care Guide
Family Salticidae
Jumping spiders are a diverse group of agile hunters with a worldwide distribution, known for stalking and pouncing on prey rather than using webs. Their large eyes allow them to see from relatively far distances and adjust focus. Many species are sexually dimorphic, with differences in color patterns or ornamentation between males and females — males often perform elaborate courtship dances or displays. Depending on the species, jumping spiders can live from 6 months to 2 years. Regal jumping spiders (Phidippus regius), the most popular pet species, average about 1.5 years.
Enclosure
Jumping spiders can be housed in small enclosures (1–5 gallons) that are ideally taller than they are wide. Enclosures that are too large may make it difficult for your spider to find and catch prey. Adult jumping spiders require clear glass or acrylic terrariums no smaller than 6″× 6″× 9″. Ensure the enclosure has a mesh barrier or small holes for proper ventilation. Jumping spiders are solitary and must be housed individually.
Provide plenty of branches, cork bark, artificial or live plants, and other perches and decor to encourage climbing and exploration. Many online retailers sell specialty decor items appropriately sized for jumping spider enclosures.
Substrate
These spiders spend little time on the enclosure floor. Simple substrates such as sphagnum moss or coconut fiber can help retain humidity, but many keepers use no substrate at all for easier cleaning and to prevent prey items from burrowing and hiding.
Temperature
- Preferred range: above 70°F and below 85°F
- Above 90°F: harmful — avoid
Most jumping spiders do well at normal room temperature. If ambient temperatures are low or you have a tropical species, supplemental heat may be needed. Low-power heating mats placed under one side of the tank can create a temperature gradient. Always use a thermostat probe to monitor temperature when supplemental heating is used. Never place the enclosure in direct sunlight — this can cause overheating and be life-threatening.
Lighting
Jumping spiders do not require strong lighting due to their keen eyesight. Natural light cycles will prompt activity during daylight hours and rest when it gets dark. Overhanging lamps or ambient natural light work well. Never place the enclosure in direct sunlight.
Humidity & Water
Maintain 50–60% humidity, monitored with a digital hygrometer probe. Proper humidity is especially critical during molting — when the spider is shedding its old exoskeleton — and should be raised to approximately 75% during this period. Gently mist the enclosure with distilled water 1–2 times per week to help maintain humidity. Do not mist the spider directly. Moistened paper towels can also be placed in the enclosure to boost humidity but should be changed frequently to prevent mold and bacterial growth. A very shallow water dish or bottle cap can be offered twice weekly.
Diet & Feeding
Jumping spiders require small insects such as mealworms, green bottle flies, fruit flies, and small crickets. As a general rule, prey should be approximately the same size as the spider’s abdomen, though some spiders will attack prey many times their body size. Always purchase prey from reputable stores or online retailers — wild-caught prey may have been exposed to harmful pesticides.
- Juveniles: feed 2–3 times per week
- Adults: may only be interested in food once per week
Crickets and mealworms can potentially bite your spider — keep an eye on your spider after offering these items. Your spider may refuse food in the period immediately before molting and should not be fed or handled during molting or for at least 2–4 days afterward, as they are especially vulnerable to injury during this time.
Common Problems
Dehydration from insufficient humidity can cause a wrinkled, dry appearance to the abdomen. Low humidity can also prevent normal molting, which can affect mobility and the ability to capture prey — and can be fatal in some cases.
Direct sunlight exposure or excessive heat can cause extreme stress and can be life-threatening.
Wellness & Preventive Care
An annual wellness examination is recommended. An exam is especially important for all new spiders to evaluate their health and discuss specialized care with an exotic animal veterinarian.
