Jumping spiders are small, agile spiders that hunt by sight and pounce on their prey. With their big eyes and curious behaviour, they are among the most charismatic invertebrates.
Interesting facts
- It is the largest family of spiders, with over 6,000 species.
- They have four pairs of eyes, including two large forward-facing eyes.
- They can leap many times their own body length.
- They attach a safety line of silk before jumping.
- One species, Bagheera kiplingi, eats mainly plant food from acacia trees.
- A jumping spider lives at about 6,700 metres on Mount Everest, one of the highest-living animals.
Behaviour
Jumping spiders stalk prey like cats, then leap. They are active by day and often watch people with their large eyes.
Breeding and young
Males perform courtship dances, waving legs and palps. Females lay eggs in silk retreats and guard them.
Threats and conservation
Most species are common.
Where to see it
- Sunny walls, windowsills and fences worldwide
- Gardens and parks
- Tropical rainforests
- Look closely: they are often only a few millimetres long
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
