Where to Buy Jumping Spiders: Finding Reputable Breeders and Best Pet Species

Where to Buy Jumping Spiders as Pets

Jumping spiders are gaining popularity as unique and interactive pets. Their large front eyes, inquisitive nature, and ability to jump make them fascinating creatures to observe. While they may not be as common as dogs or cats, it is possible to find jumping spiders available from breeders or specialty pet stores if you know where to look.

What Are Jumping Spiders?

Jumping spiders are members of the Salticidae family of spiders, consisting of over 600 described species. They get their name from their remarkable ability to leap distances far exceeding their own body length. Jumping spiders have some of the best vision among spiders and actively hunt prey rather than building webs. Their large front eyes allow them to see colors and resolve detail better than other spiders.

Most jumping spider species are very small, often just a few millimeters long. Even the largest jumping spiders have bodies under 1 inch (2.5 cm). Their small size and fuzzy, sometimes iridescent appearance make them arguably the cutest of all spiders. Jumping spiders come in a huge variety of colors and patterns, from drab brown to brilliant patches of red, blue, green, and metallic colors.

Why Keep Jumping Spiders as Pets?

Jumping spiders are quickly gaining fans around the world thanks to videos showcasing their endearing behaviors. Some reasons jumping spiders make great pets include:

• They are low maintenance and easy to care for compared to dogs, cats, or other traditional pets. A small container with substrate, foliage, and a water dish is all they need.
• They have naturally friendly, curious personalities. Jumping spiders seem to express interest in interacting with owners.
• Watching them hunt live prey like fruit flies or crickets can be fascinating.
• Their jumping skills and web-free lifestyle make them active pets.
• They have very short lifespans of typically 1-2 years, so caring for them is a relatively short-term commitment.

Choosing a Jumping Spider Species

The most commonly kept jumping spider species include:

• Regal Jumping Spider - This species (Phidippus regius) has a black body with bright orange or red patches. It is native to the southeastern United States.
• Bold Jumping Spider - The bold jumper (Phidippus audax) is another North American species with vibrant black, white, and red coloration.
• Maratus Jumping Spiders - This genus of Australian species is famous for the brilliant colors and flaps/fans on the males used in courtship dances.
• Metallic Green Jumping Spider - Native to Asia, these tiny spiders (Chrysilla lauta) have bright green chelicerae (mouth parts).
• Zebra Jumping Spider - Named for their white and black striped legs, these spiders (Salticus scenicus) have worldwide distribution.

The regal, bold, and zebra jumping spiders likely make the best starter pets as they are hardy and commonly bred. Maratus species and other exotic jumping spiders may be harder to find and require more specialized care.

Purchasing Captive Bred vs. Wild Caught Jumping Spiders

There are a few options for obtaining a jumping spider as a pet:

• Captive Bred - Buying from a reputable breeder is ideal. The spiders will be accustomed to captivity and handling. Captive bred spiders are unlikely to have parasites or pesticides present.
• Pet Stores - Some specialty pet stores carry jumping spiders seasonally. Ask about the source, as some may sell wild caught spiders.
• Wild Caught - It is legal in most areas to collect your own jumping spider from the wild. However, they may be more difficult to acclimate and have greater health risks.

Ultimately, a healthy captive bred spider will make the best pet. Spiderlings bred specifically for the pet trade are unlikely to carry diseases or parasites that could be introduced from the wild. They will also already be well socialized and accustomed to living in an enclosure.

How to Find Jumping Spider Breeders

Here are some tips for finding reputable jumping spider breeders in your area or able to ship:

• Search online marketplaces like Facebook, Craigslist, or Kijiji for listings in your area. Breeders often advertise available spiderlings on these platforms.
• Check reptile expos or shows. Breeders may travel to these events to sell spiders and other invertebrates.
• Join jumping spider enthusiast groups on Facebook. Members will be able to recommend breeders they have experience purchasing from.
• Search for breeders on Google. Look for breeders with professional websites documenting their breeding operation.
• Ask at your local pet store. Even if they don't sell jumping spiders, they may know of breeders in your community.

When contacting a breeder, always ask questions about their breeding stock, temperament of spiderlings, feeding regimen, health guarantees, shipping practices, etc. Choose an experienced breeder who genuinely cares for the animals.

What to Look for in a Reputable Jumping Spider Breeder

Signs of a reputable jumping spider breeder include:

• They have a track record of many successful transactions and good reviews.
• Their spiders appear well cared for in photos and are housed in appropriate enclosures.
• They ask you questions to ensure their spiders will go to a good home.
• They provide detailed care instructions and offer support after purchase.
• They are knowledgeable about jumping spider husbandry and genetics.
• Their website is professional and easy to navigate.
• They guarantee live arrival and offer health guarantees on their spiders.

Avoid breeders who seem to just want to make a quick sale without concern for animal welfare. Do not order spiders to be shipped unattended in the mail during extreme hot or cold weather.

Questions to Ask Jumping Spider Breeders

Before purchasing a jumping spider, ask the breeder:

• What species do you breed?
• Were the spiderlings captive bred or wild caught?
• What is the temperament of your spiders like?
• Do you handle the spiders frequently to socialize them?
• What do you feed the spiders?
• How long have you been breeding jumping spiders?
• Do you quarantine and vet your breeding stock for diseases?
• Do you provide any health guarantee?
• How are the spiders packaged and shipped?
• What are your policies on replacements if a spider arrives deceased?

A quality breeder will be happy to answer all these questions and talk about their experience. Avoid any breeders that seem annoyed or evasive when asked questions about their care and practices.

What to Expect to Pay for a Jumping Spider

Jumping spider prices typically range from $20-$60 depending on age, sex, and rarity of species. Here are some average price ranges:

• Common slings/spiderlings: $20-$30
• Juvenile females: $30-$45
• Adult females: $40-$60
• Rare species like Maratus: $50-$100+

Males often sell for slightly less than females. Buying multiple jumping spiders can also qualify for bulk discounts in some cases. Use price as one factor in choosing a breeder, but don't make price the sole determining factor.

Buying Jumping Spiders Locally vs. Online

There are pros and cons to buying jumping spiders in person locally versus ordering online to be shipped.

Advantages of buying locally:

• You can personally inspect the spider before purchasing.
• No risks associated with shipping.
• Lower cost since no overnight shipping fees.
• Can acquire the spider immediately instead of waiting for shipping.

Advantages of buying online:

• More options to choose from different breeders.
• Can often find rarer species.
• Convenient; spiders are delivered right to your door.
• Usually a live arrival guarantee when shipped overnight.

Ultimately the decision comes down to breeder reputation and what is available in your immediate area. Expand your search nationwide online if you want more choices.

What to Include in Your Jumping Spider Enclosure

Once you acquire your jumping spider, you will need to get their enclosure set up before their arrival. Here are some must-have items:

• Container - A plastic critter keeper, aquarium, or other enclosure with ventilation holes.
• Substrate - 2-3 inches of coconut fiber, potting soil, or similar substrate.
• Decor - Small plastic plants, sticks, leaves, bark. Provide anchors for webs and hiding spots.
• Water dish - Shallow bottle cap or dish. Refill with fresh water regularly.
• Food - Fruit flies, pinhead crickets, other appropriately sized feeder insects.

Follow your breeder's instructions for setting up proper housing with adequate humidity. Give your jumping spider time to settle in and destress from shipping before trying to handle it.

Finding Reputable Jumping Spider Breeders

Jumping spiders can make fascinating pets for the right owner willing to provide them with proper care. Do your research to find experienced breeders with healthy, well-socialized spiders. Captive bred spiders have the best chances of thriving and interacting with their new owners. With their charming personalities and alien-like appearance, jumping spiders offer a unique pet experience unlike any other.

FAQs

Are jumping spiders legal to own as pets?

In most areas, yes. Jumping spiders are not restricted or banned in the United States, Canada, UK, or Australia. Some municipalities may have restrictions, so verify your local laws. Certain rare protected species may be illegal to own without a permit.

Can jumping spiders be handled?

Most jumping spider species can be gently handled if done carefully. Start by coaxing them onto your hand using a pencil or tongs. Avoid squeezing them. Handle them over a surface in case they jump off. Wash hands before and after handling.

Do jumping spiders make good pets for kids?

Jumping spiders can make good first pets for responsible older children under supervision. Make sure kids understand proper care and gentle handling. Small children should observe but not handle spiders. Adult supervision is a must with any child pet owner.

How long do jumping spiders live as pets?

Kept in captivity, most jumping spiders live 1-2 years on average. Females tend to have slightly longer lifespans than males. Providing ideal conditions with proper food and humidity can maximize lifespan.

Should I get one or more jumping spiders?

Jumping spiders do not need to be housed together; they do fine solitary. One spider makes a good starter pet. You can keep small groups together with enough space and supervision. Only house multiples of the same species and watch for aggression.