Care Sheet

Jumping Spider Care Guide 

Phidippus Regius

Enclosure

As most jumping spiders are arboreal, they live, hunt, and build their webs in trees, shrubs, and tall plants rather than on the ground. In captivity they require the following enclosure:

  • Tall (size will depend on instar)

  • cross ventilated

  • vertically oriented 

  • front or bottom opening so web structures are not disturbed

Enclosure Placement and Temperature

  • Stable temperature (22-26°C) with minimal fluctuations

  • Cabinets or shelves away from drafts, sunlight, and noise

  • Avoid areas with chemical exposure such as cleaning products, air fresheners, scented candles or smoking/vaping 

Decoration and Enrichment

  • Aquarium or reptile-safe decorations

  • Maintain humidity (around 55% for many Phidippus species)

  • Lots of climbing and hiding accessories

Heating

  • Recommended temperature control: 22-26°C

  • Heat mat placed behind the enclosure with a 1cm gap 

  • Thermostat

Lighting

  • 12-hour light cycle with bright LED lamp

  • Avoid heat-producing bulbs to prevent temperature spikes

Feeding and Hydration

  • Water droplets for drinking; mist enclosure daily

  • Size-appropriate prey: fruit flies, locusts, house flies

  • Monitor abdomen size for feeding frequency

Moulting

  • Understand instar stages (i1, i2, etc.) 

  • Signs of impending moult: reduced food intake, thickening web

  • Continue to mist enclosure during pre-moult; adjust feeding