Leap of Eighth: Regal Jumping Spiders (Featuring Ms. Frizzle!)

 Today we have a special guest to introduce us to the wonderful world of Jumping Spiders... Meet Ms. Frizzle!!!

(Ms. Frizzle, courtesy of my friend, Mel)

        Ms. Frizzle is a Regal Jumping Spider that currently lives in her own little world (my friend's tank). Normally, members of her species can be found anywhere in the southeast portion of the United States in woodlands or open fields. They're the biggest Jumping Spider species in North America and although males are black and white, females can be distinguished by their bright orange colors. They also make very interesting pets that are easy to take care of. They can also be distinguished by their ability to jump extremely far distances, which they prefer over running.

    Regal Jumping Spiders are interesting in all senses of the word. They're able to make "ellipsoid webs" which are webs that have openings on both sides, which allow them to rest, molt, and lay eggs in. They eat around two to four times a week and mainly eat bugs such as crickets, flies, aphids and shield bugs to name a few. This diet makes them amazing for the environment, so it's encouraged to not kill these spiders. Something interesting about Jumping Spiders in general is that unlike normal spiders, these spiders don't wait for bugs to get caught in their web, they instead go out and hunt for their prey. This practice is common in other spider species as well; Primarily Tarantulas, Wolf Spiders and Crab Spiders.

(Ms. Frizzle and her dinner) by Mel

    Despite how easily they could take down a mealworm, Regal Jumping Spiders aren't dangerous to humans. They don't bite unless you're holding them tightly and even if they do, the bite does not require any treatment. These arachnids aren't venomous and even wild ones can be held if you understand that they're creatures who need to be handled gently. If they're handled well, they won't mind hopping around your hand once they get comfortable. 

    

    As a pet, Regal Jumping Spiders are pretty low maintenance for a slew of reasons. Due to their compact size (a little under an inch), a jumping spider can live happily in a smaller tank. They don't need to be fed often, and can be fed with bugs such as mealworms or crickets which you could find at your local pet store. These arachnids may refuse to eat pre-killed prey however, so it's best to get live insects. It's also important that they aren't overfed, as this could cause them to molt more often which shortens their lifespans. Molting is also an important part of a Jumping Spider's life, as this is how they grow bigger and mature, so it's best for your jumping spider to have a nice, safe hiding space to molt. Jumping/climbing spots are also very important so they can feel at home. Try mimicking their woodland habitat when you make their enclosure. Spider Webs HQ does an amazing job at explaining what you need to give your Jumping Spider all it needs to thrive!

   

(Ms. Frizzle's last exoskeleton) by Mel

    Regal Jumping Spiders are not only some of the most interesting pets, but also some of the most interesting insects overall. Studies have shown that these environmental protectors can recognize faces and it really shows when you encounter one. They're some of nature's most marvelous creatures however, despite how easy it is to handle one, it's important that you understand their needs in order to give them the best life that they could live. Easy maintenance does not mean none and it's always good to be informed completely on what your Jumping Spider needs to thrive. Make sure if you get your own Ms. Frizzle, or meet one in the wild, that you treat it with respect and educated kindness. Your arachnid friend will appreciate it, and will reciprocate that kindness.

(Ms. Frizzle Says to have a good day!) by Mel

Citations:

Enclosure set-up for a jumping spider. Spiders Web HQ. (2024, July 2). https://spiderswebhq.com/enclosure-set-up-for-a-jumping-spider/#:~:text=Enclosure%20Size&text=The%20minimum%20size%20of%20a,the%20enclosure%20you’ve%20purchased

Psaradelis, S. (2024, May 27). Regal jumping spider. A. https://a-z-animals.com/animals/regal-jumping-spider/

Regal jumping spider - phidippus regius C.L. koch. (n.d.-a). https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/misc/regal_jumping_spider.htm#:~:text=Jumping%20spiders%20are%20harmless%2C%20beneficial%20creatures