Tan Jumping Spider (Platycryptus undatus)

What Are Tan Jumping Spiders?

Tan Jumping Spiders, scientifically known as Platycryptus undatus, is a species of arachnid from the family Salticidae.

They are commonly found in North America, from Canada to Mexico.

The jumping spider’s common name is derived from its distinctive coloration, which is a combination of tan and yellowish brown.

These spiders range from 10–13m in size, with males being slightly smaller than females.

They are active during the day and are known for their aggressive hunting technique and fast reflexes.

What Do Tan Jumping Spiders Look Like?

Platycryptus undatus is a small and colorful arachnid that averages about 1.3 cm in length and has a bright tan appearance.

It is covered in a bushy carpet of hair along its entire body, as well as on the legs.

The colorful spider typically has a tan body with black stripes, but its variable coloration, pattern, and size make it easily identifiable.

On the head, the Tan Jumping Spider has two large eyes in between smaller sets of eyes and chelicerae, which it uses to capture prey.

Its four pairs of long and slender legs are very strong, allowing it to jump long distances.

The spider’s abdomen is typically longer and more slender than other spiders within the jumping spider species.

Benefits Of Using Tan Jumping Spiders

The Tan Jumping Spider is an excellent addition to many types of vivariums.

They are small, colorful, and easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for both experienced and beginner keepers.

Platycryptus undatus is also great for controlling pest populations in their enclosures.

They are voracious feeders and capture various types of small arthropods.

And above all, they provide an interesting and living source of stimulation, providing visual and tactile activities for the rest of the various inhabitants in the terrarium.

Tan Jumping Spider Facts

Tan Jumping Spiders are carnivorous, social spiders that prefer to live in moist habitats.

They typically have a lifespan of around a few years and multiple individuals can co-habitat peacefully in the same enclosure.

They breed best when well-fed, with stable climates and plenty of hiding places to choose from.

Habitat

Platycryptus undatus is a species of spider found in the northern United States and southern Canada.

This species is found in a variety of habitats, ranging from fields and gardens to forests and marshes.

The Tan Jumping Spider is most commonly found among leaf litter, logs, and other natural debris.

They are well adapted to their environment and can easily blend in with foliage and other natural elements.

Diet

In their natural habitat, Platycryptus undatus is known to consume a wide range of prey including flies, mites, ants, and other spiders.

Wild Tan Jumping spiders usually hunt during the day when the temperature is warmer.

 Since they are easier to locate and capture these types of jumpers usually take smaller prey.

Temperament

 Tan Jumping Spiders are typically quite calm and gentle, but they can sometimes be shy.

If they feel threatened, they may try to flee or hide, but they won’t bite unless they believe they are in danger.

Tan Jumping Spiders are not venomous to organisms of human size, they can still bite if they become agitated.

Therefore, it is essential to handle them gently, with slow and steady movements. 

When it comes to living with other animals, Platycryptus undatus can occasionally become territorial and aggressive, especially when it comes to mating.

If you own other pets, like cats or dogs, it’s best to keep them away from the Tan Jumping Spider to avoid confrontation.

Additionally, you should never leave unsupervised small animals in the same enclosure as your spider.

Lifespan

The lifespan of Tan Jumping Spiders is generally short, ranging from one to two years.

As with other species of jumping spiders, females typically live slightly longer, often for up to a year.

The life cycle of the Platycryptus undatus consists of four stages: egg, spiderling, juvenile, and adult.

The egg stage is when the female deposits a cluster of eggs, concealed in a silk sac, underneath a leaf or rock.

Once the eggs hatch, the spiderlings enter the second stage, which usually takes between one and two weeks to complete.

This is when they become more active and begin to disperse.

The third stage of the life cycle, often referred to as the “teen” stage, is when the spiderlings transition into juveniles.

This part typically takes six-to-seven weeks.

Lastly, the adult stage lasts around six-to-eight weeks.

During this time the spider matures, develops a distinct color pattern, and reaches its full-sized adult form.

Breeding

Mating and breeding for the Platycryptus undatus is a complex process, involving both the male and female spiders.

Males have to first attract the female’s attention to get close enough for courting.

A male usually creates drumming, or vibrations, that catch a female’s attention and serve as an invitation for mating.

Once courtship is complete, the female spider prepares an egg sac and lays eggs inside.

She then cares for the egg sac hatching, protecting her young until they reach maturity.

That said, she will abandon them after they hatch and they are left to fend for themselves.

The Tan Jumping Spider reaches sexual maturity at a young age and can typically reproduce 3-4 times a year in optimal conditions.

Breeding should only be done if the female is healthy and well-fed, and the environment is ideal for her to produce strong offspring.

It is important for keepers to ensure that the enclosure offers tasks, hiding spots, and other items to stimulate the babies.

Where To Find Tan Jumping Spiders

Tan Jumping Spiders can be found in woodlands, fields, and gardens.

They usually crawl near or under the bark of trees and logs or underneath rocks.

To find these spiders in the wild, look in areas with plenty of tall grass, under logs or leaves, or around rocks in the late summer and early fall. 

You can also purchase Platycryptus undatus from pet stores, breeders, or hobbyists.

When purchasing this kind of jumping spider, it is important to ensure that the specimen is well-fed, healthy, and not overly aggressive.

You should also check to make sure that the vendor you are purchasing from is experienced in caring for the species.