The regal jumping spider or Phidippus regius is a popular spider species kept as pets. Native to the southeastern United States, these spiders are docile, easy to care for, and have vibrant colors and patterns. Females have white dots and thin black stripes on their large abdomens. Males are smaller with an iridescent sheen. Their daring hunting tactics, like stalking and pouncing, make them fun to watch.
Jumping spiders don’t spin webs to catch prey. They hunt by jumping on their prey. Before a big jump, they spin a small web for support. The Phidippus regius is one of the largest jumping spiders in the US.
These spiders need an enclosure with substrate, plants, sticks, and hides. Mist the enclosure daily. Feed live insects like fruit flies, pinhead crickets, wingless fruit flies. Give freshly molted spiders extra protein.
Jumping spiders can see objects up to 20 inches away. Their large front eyes give them sharp vision. They also have lateral eyes that detect motion. So jumping spiders notice when you approach their enclosure.
Some jumping spider species that also make good pets are the bold jumping spider, the zebra jumping spider, and the tan jumping spider. Just be sure to house each spider individually, since they may attack each other if kept together.
Overall, the Phidippus regius is a good pet for beginners. They are low-maintenance, friendly, and energetic. Their small size means they don’t need much space. If handled gently after bonding, jumping spiders will walk onto your hand. An attentive and gentle spider enthusiast will enjoy getting to know these clever little arachnids.
Can you handle regal jumping spiders?
Most jumping spiders are very friendly, passive and harmless to us. In the wild, they are vicious predators that prowl at higher vantage points for their preys but in front of humans they shy away quickly. You can even handle them or play with them with your bare hands! Their main diet makes up of pest you and I hate!
The Regal Jumping Spider exhibits sexual dimorphism, meaning that males and females have different appearances. The females are larger, generally growing up to 22mm in body length with brighter colors. Whenever you handle your Regal Jumping Spider, do it above a soft surface as damage can occur if it jumps or falls from a height.
You can purchase a Regal Jumping Spider for an extremely low cost, under $10 for a tiny spiderling, while males and females sell for between $20 and $30. This price often includes shipping and a safe arrival guarantee. These fascinating little champions are known for their vibrant colors, friendly personalities, and intelligence that sets them apart from other spiders.
It’s best to avoid touching jumping spiders as they don’t like being handled and can bite when threatened. However, if you do need to move your spider, use a cup instead of directly touching it. You should get a 1 gallon tank, at least 10 inches high, with lots of objects for your spider to play on like branches, twigs, leaves, plants, and rocks. This helps them build silken nests for sleeping, molting and egg-laying.
If you attempt to handle a Regal Jumping Spider after not interacting with it for a while, it can act wild and fast, at risk of escaping. It’s possible to get it used to being handled again through regular gentle interaction. The ideal temperature for a Regal Jumping Spider is between 75 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Proper humidity levels are key as well, achieved through light misting during the day.
The enclosure should provide adequate ventilation and humidity gradient, with a daily boost and drop. Feed small insects every few days, no larger than the spider’s abdomen. Remove uneaten prey items. Males are typically black with white stripes and dots while females tend to be more colorful but usually have similar markings. Though not aggressive toward humans, Regal Jumping Spiders can bite if threatened so gentle handling is key.
Are regal jumping spiders rare?
The regal jumping spider is the largest jumping spider species in eastern North America. Males range from 6 to 18 mm and females 7 to 22 mm. Their bite causes slight swelling or itch and redness. Phidippus regius spiders live in open areas like fields and forests. Birds, lizards and larger spiders prey on them. Their jumping ability helps them effectively hunt insects and evade predators. While their bite can hurt, it does not seriously threaten humans. They actually help control insect populations, so people welcome them in gardens and farms.
The male regal jumping spider is black with white bands on its legs. It has three white spots on its back resembling a face. Females have a white stripe bordered by black. After mating with females, males die. Females create nests to lay eggs, initially around 180 to 200, declining over four clutches. In the wild regal jumping spiders live about 10 months, but captivity can extend their life to 1-2 years.
Regal jumping spiders have striking colors and jumping ability that attract exotic pet fans. But their size, behavior and diet require special care. Their genus Phidippus has large size and iridescent jaws for their family. “Royal jumper” translates their scientific name phidippus regius. They live mainly in Florida, the Greater Antilles, Bahamas and southern U.S. states. Their curious and gentle temperament makes them bond with owners.
Regal jumping spiders need a high-protein diet of insects. They can also eat fruits and vegetables. Buy them only from reputable online retailers like Insects Limited, The Bug Man and The Insect House. Make sure to research proper care requirements first. With the right setup, regal jumping spiders will thrive as pets.
How big do Regal jumpers get?
How big do regal jumping spiders get? Phidippus regius grows 6 to 18 mm. This spider lives in eastern North America. Females reach 7 to 22 mm. Males average 12 mm. Females average 15 mm.
Where can you find regal jumping spiders? This spider lives in eastern North America. It is a day hunter with bright colors. Females reach 22mm. They have gray to orange bodies.
How do regal jumping spiders behave? They jump and build nests. They act jumpy around people. When calm, they may stay around humans.
What do regal jumping spiders eat? They eat small insects like crickets and moths. They also eat other spiders.
How should you house regal jumping spiders? Use a 1 gallon tank, at least 10 inches high. Add plants and objects to enrich and for nesting.
Can regal jumping spiders be trained? Yes, they can jump on command with training.
In summary, regal jumping spiders have a role in nature’s web of life. They are cool spiders that can jump very far.