Zebra Jumping Spider (Salticus scenicus)

What Do Zebra Jumping Spiders Look Like?

The Zebra Jumping Spider is a species of jumping spider that is characterized by its coloration and patterns.

The average size of an adult Zebra Jumping Spider is about 5-7 mm in length and about 8-10 mm for a female spider.

It has a rounded cephalothorax area, which is covered in short hairs and tufts of white, black, and grey.

The abdomen has a pattern of white, black, and grey that looks like distinct stripes.

It has 8 eyes that are normally dark in color.

It also has two front claws called chelicerae that they use to kill their prey.

The legs are distinctively banded, long, and slender which enables them to jump long distances.

Salticus scenicus is primarily found in Europe and North America and prefers to live in warm, dry, and sunny habitats.

Benefits Of Using Zebra Jumping Spiders

Salticus scenicus is an incredibly unique and fascinating pet that is perfect for vivariums.

These spiders are interesting to watch since they are constantly on the move and can jump surprisingly high.

Zebra Jumpers are known for their leaping and hunting abilities, and they are incredibly agile.

Finally, because these spiders are small, they require minimal care and maintenance, making them a great choice for beginner owners.

Zebra Jumping Spider Facts

Salticus scenicus is a small spider, typically 6 mm long with females growing slightly larger.

They have a unique jumping ability and are known for their striped patterns and black-and-white coloring.

They prefer warm and humid environments, with a diet based on small prey such as ants, flies, and other small bugs.

The natural lifespan of a Zebra Jumping Spider ranges from a few years, and its breeding season occurs during the summertime.

Habitat

The Zebra Jumping Spider is native to temperate regions in Northern Europe and North America.

In the wild, they can be seen quite frequently on coarse vegetation, rocks, and the bark of trees.

Although they are not a water species, they prefer to live in areas where vegetation is abundant and the climate is humid.

These spiders also inhabit gardens, lawns, and meadows across Europe and various parts of Asia. 

Replicate their natural habitat perfectly with our bioactive species-specific soil mixes, designed to provide the ideal moisture and organic content for your arachnids.

Diet

In their natural habitat, Zebra Jumping Spiders primarily feed on insects, such as flies, moths, and beetles.

They also feed on some smaller spiders and other arthropods.

These spiders hunt through their eyesight, looking for small prey to ambush.

They hunt both day and night, depending on their environment and the availability of prey.

The spider prefers to hunt prey that is relatively large for its size, so it tends to avoid smaller food such as ants and larvae eggs if the alternative is available.

The most preferred food sources are just slightly larger than the size of the spider itself.

In some cases, the spiders also use their webs to capture food.

Zebra Jumping Spiders can also take advantage of other sources of food such as dead bugs, honeydew, and sap flux.

Temperament

The Zebra Jumper is known to be quite skittish around humans.

However, they can become accustomed to handling it if given enough time.

Always handle these spiders with a gentle touch, taking care not to startle them by approaching too quickly.

Additionally, Salticus scenicus are quite territorial and can be aggressive toward other spiders if kept together in an enclosure.

In an outdoor environment, Zebra Jumping Spiders are generally considered beneficial due to their habitat and lifestyle.

They are predators that help to keep pests, such as flies and other insects, under control.

Lifespan

The typical lifespan of the Zebra Jumping Spider is up to three years, depending on the care it receives and the environment you provide.

They go through four distinct stages in their life cycle, starting as eggs and ending as adult spiders.

At the egg stage, Salticus scenicus are small and white and are deposited into a brood of up to 35 eggs.

Once hatched, these little spiders become larvae and as they grow larger and stronger, they molt multiple times until becoming an adult.

At this point, they begin to darken in color and begin developing spots and stripes.

Adult Zebra Jumping Spiders reach maturity within 4 to 9 months and are quite active during the day.

Due to their uncanny ability to be still and blend into their surrounding environment, they are often mistaken for pebbles.

Breeding

When it comes to mating and reproduction, the Zebra Jumping Spider has a unique process.

After males become mature, they molt once more and become able to mate.

During mating season, which occurs every autumn, males compete for females, often showcasing their reflexes to impress them.

After mating, the female can lay up to 30 eggs in a web-like cocoon which she will guard for several weeks at a time.

In this period, she will also take care of her eggs and prepare to become a mother.

When the spiderlings emerge from the cocoon, they are equipped with enough nutrients to last them for weeks.

During this period, the little spiderlings remain in the web and eat the remains of their egg sack.

After a few weeks, they can begin to hunt and explore the world.

The female will stay with the spiderlings until they become mature, protecting them and teaching them the skills they will need later in life.

Where To Find Zebra Jumping Spiders

Jumping Spiders can be found in many places in the wild, usually near gardens and houses.

They are typically found in warm climates, so if you live in a warmer climate it may be possible to find wild jumping spiders.

If you would rather purchase one, it can often be found in forums and online pet stores.

They are typically available in kits that come with the spider and other essential supplies, such as a cage and food.

Before purchasing a jumping spider, it’s vital to make sure it is a certified, healthy specimen.