Regal Jumping Spider

Looks how to spot one

Exoskeleton with iridescent chelicerae

Males are always black with white markings on the abdomen and white fringes on the first pair of legs. Their large chelicerae (mouthparts) shimmer in green, blue or violet. Females are more variable: they can be black with white spots like males, or covered in colourful scales of grey, tan, brown, orange or a mix of these. Some females are entirely orange, which is especially attractive. Both sexes have excellent vision thanks to large forward-facing eyes.1

Personality what they are like

Regal jumping spiders are calm, curious and often bold. Many captive-raised individuals will voluntarily leave their enclosure to explore and may even initiate interaction with their owner. They are one of the most docile jumping spiders and very rarely bite, making them suitable for gentle handling when done properly.32

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Highly active and visual. They need a brightly lit, warm enclosure with plenty of vertical climbing space and objects to explore. They use the full extent of their enclosure and are natural hunters and climbers.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Minimal grooming needed. Keep the enclosure clean and provide a shallow water dish or mist the enclosure lightly. Ensure good ventilation to prevent condensation. Handle only with care and never force interaction.32

Home where they are happiest

A vertical enclosure at least 4 x 4 x 7 inches (10 x 10 x 18 cm). Temperature 72-82°F (22-28°C), ambient humidity 50-60%. Provide good airflow, dry substrate and a shallow water dish. They are not communal and must be housed alone.23

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Live insects such as flies (fruit flies for young, bluebottle or greenbottle flies for adults), small crickets, roaches and mealworms. A varied diet is beneficial. Some captive individuals may accept pre-killed prey.34

Company who they like around

Solitary. They must be kept alone as they are not communal and will cannibalise each other. They do not need companionship and are content with their own territory.3

The story where it all began

Exotic pet owners have kept regal jumping spiders since the 1970s, but they only became popular with the general public after 2017. The web series and television show Lucas the Spider, along with popular social media accounts, boosted their popularity. By the 2020s they became commonly available in chain pet stores in the United States and Canada. In 2026, Build-A-Bear Workshop even created a jumping spider plush, showing how far they have come as a beloved pet.5