Jumping Spider Care Guide

Jumping Spider Care Guide

Jumping spiders are among the most rewarding exotic pets available. They are small, diurnal, highly intelligent, and genuinely curious about their environment — including you. Unlike most spiders, jumping spiders actively engage with their keepers, track movement with their large forward-facing eyes, and display a range of behaviors that make them fascinating to observe. This guide covers everything you need to keep a jumping spider successfully.

Species Overview

The most commonly kept jumping spider in captivity is the Regal Jumping Spider (Phidippus regius), one of the largest jumping spider species in North America. Other popular species include the Bold Jumping Spider (Phidippus audax), various Hyllus species, and Portia species. Care requirements are broadly similar across commonly kept species, with some variation in size and humidity preferences.

See our Jumping Spider Species Guide for a full breakdown of commonly kept species.

Enclosure

Jumping spiders are arboreal and need vertical space more than floor space. A tall, front-opening enclosure with cross-ventilation is the standard. Minimum enclosure size for an adult Phidippus regius is approximately 8" x 8" x 12", though larger is always better for an active species.

  • Ventilation: Cross-ventilation on multiple sides is essential. Top-only ventilation is inadequate.
  • Access: Front-opening enclosures are strongly preferred — jumping spiders build sleeping sacs near the top, and opening from above disturbs their retreat.
  • Visibility: Clear acrylic or glass panels allow observation without disturbance.
  • Security: Jumping spiders are skilled escape artists. All gaps must be sealed.

See our Best Jumping Spider Enclosures guide for top picks.

Temperature

Jumping spiders do well at normal room temperature — 68–80°F for most commonly kept species. They do not require supplemental heating in most homes. Avoid sustained temperatures above 85°F. Phidippus regius from Florida populations may tolerate slightly warmer conditions than species from cooler climates.

Humidity

Jumping spiders do not require high ambient humidity. Lightly mist one side of the enclosure every 2–3 days to provide drinking water in the form of droplets on the enclosure walls. Allow the enclosure to dry between mistings to prevent mold and bacterial growth. Never keep the enclosure consistently wet.

See our Best Jumping Spider Misting Bottles guide for top picks.

Feeding

Jumping spiders are active hunters that should be fed every 2–3 days. Offer appropriately sized live prey — feeders should be no larger than the spider's body length. Variety improves nutrition and keeps the spider engaged.

  • Spiderlings: Fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster, then D. hydei)
  • Juveniles: Fruit flies, small crickets, small mealworms
  • Adults: Crickets, bottle flies, mealworms, small dubia roaches, waxworms (occasional treat)

Remove uneaten prey within a few hours. Never feed during or immediately after a molt. See our Best Jumping Spider Food & Feeders guide for full feeder recommendations.

Decor & Enrichment

Jumping spiders are active explorers that benefit from a well-furnished enclosure. Provide climbing surfaces, anchor points for webbing, and visual cover at multiple heights.

  • Cork bark tubes and flats for climbing and retreats
  • Artificial vines and plants for anchor points and cover
  • Magnetic ledges for elevated perches
  • Branches for additional climbing routes

See our Best Jumping Spider Decor & Climbing Accessories guide.

Molting

Jumping spiders molt periodically as they grow. Before a molt, the spider will seal itself inside a thickened sleeping sac and become inactive. Do not disturb the enclosure, offer food, or mist near the sac entrance during this period. After molting, wait until the new exoskeleton has fully hardened before offering prey — typically several days. See our Jumping Spider Molting Guide for full details.

Lifespan

Most jumping spiders live 1–3 years in captivity depending on species and sex. Females generally live longer than males. Phidippus regius females commonly reach 2–3 years with good care. See our Jumping Spider Lifespan guide for a full breakdown by species and sex.

Health & Common Issues

Jumping spiders are generally hardy when kept correctly. The most common health issues are dehydration (from inconsistent misting), injuries from oversized prey, and stress from inadequate enclosure size or ventilation. See our Jumping Spider Diseases & Health guide for symptoms and treatment.

Are Jumping Spiders Good for Beginners?

Yes — jumping spiders are one of the best exotic pets for beginners. They are small, low-maintenance, don't require heating, and are genuinely engaging to keep. The main requirements are a proper enclosure with cross-ventilation, regular misting, and a consistent supply of appropriately sized live feeders. See our full Are Jumping Spiders Good for Beginners? guide.

Quick Reference

Parameter Recommended Range
Temperature 68–80°F
Humidity Low ambient; mist every 2–3 days
Enclosure (adult) 8" x 8" x 12" minimum, taller preferred
Feeding frequency Every 2–3 days
Lifespan 1–3 years depending on species and sex

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