Johnson Jumping Spider

Looks how to spot one

Exoskeleton

A compact, robust spider with a mostly black body and a vivid red abdomen. The male's abdomen is entirely red, while the female has a black stripe running down the centre of the red. The chelicerae (jaws) are a striking, iridescent teal colour. Some individuals may have small white or yellow dots on the abdomen, edged with a thin pale line.13

Personality what they are like

Generally shy and quick to flee from humans. It is not aggressive, but may bite if provoked; the bite is painful but not medically significant, causing only local swelling or mild headache. It is reported to be slightly more defensive than some other jumping spiders.34

Daily activity how busy a day looks

An active, diurnal hunter that needs space to explore and jump. Provide a tall enclosure with plenty of vertical surfaces, branches, and foliage. It does not need a large territory but appreciates enrichment such as cork bark and silk plants.16

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Very low maintenance. The enclosure should be kept clean of leftover prey remains. A shallow water dish with a sponge or misting once or twice a week provides hydration. No special grooming is needed.3

Home where they are happiest

A well-ventilated terrarium of at least 20x20x30 cm for a single spider. Provide a substrate of coconut fibre or peat moss, and include hiding places like cork bark and silk tubes. Temperature 21-27°C, humidity 50-70%. The spider builds tubular silk nests under rocks or wood on the ground, so provide a retreat. Not venomous to humans, but handle with care.13

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Euryphagous predator feeding on a wide variety of insects and other spiders. In captivity, offer appropriately sized prey such as fruit flies, small crickets, house flies, and moths. Prey should be about half the spider's own size. Feed every 2-4 days for adults, more often for juveniles.16

Company who they like around

Solitary and cannibalistic. Keep individually, as females may eat males and both sexes may prey on smaller conspecifics. No social interaction needed.16

The story where it all began

First described in 1883 by George and Elizabeth Peckham as Attus johnsonii. It has long been known as one of the largest and most common jumping spiders in western North America. Its striking red abdomen and teal jaws made it a favourite among early arachnologists. In recent decades it has become popular in the pet trade due to its bold colours, active nature, and relatively simple care requirements. It is not a traditional pet but is increasingly kept by invertebrate enthusiasts.14

Recognised by the official bits

World Spider Catalog

Accepted species, first described by G. W. Peckham & E. G. Peckham in 1883.7

ITIS

Valid species, common name Johnson jumper.2