Salticids or jumping spiders uk are some of the most readily likeable and intelligent arachnids that we have in the British Isles. Their large eyes, bright colours and acrobatic hunting technique have made these pint-sized predators a favourite of naturalists and pet owners. In this article you’ll find:
Types of Jumping Spider found in the UK
Most of the UK’s 40 or so species of jumping spider uk are small and unobtrusive. They are also very much at home in gardens and woodlands, as well as urban settings where they may suntan on walls or leaves in search of food.
Zebra Jumping Spider uk (Salticus scenicus)
The most familiar and widespread member of the species in the UK is the Zebra. Body length is 5–7 mm in adults with females slightly larger than males. They have a black and white striped abdomen that looks rather zebra-like, giving them their name.
Habitat: Often seen on walls, fences and tree trunks in gardens and parks throughout England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. Habits: Diurnal hunters stalking prey with keen vision not webs. They have a pretty complex mating dance which the male waves their legs and they become flushed in color. Season: Active May to October, mating in summer. It is not harmful to humans and contributes in pest insect control: it feeds on aphids.
Other Notable UK Species
Although Salticus scenicus is the most commonly found species in urban areas, a number of other species bring variety to this group:
- Marpissa muscosa: One of the larger UK jumpers (up to 10 mm). Grey-brown with slight markings; on wetland edges and reedbeds.
- Evarcha arcuata: Bright iridescent green chelicerae (mouthparts) in males. Prefers grasslands and meadows.
- Heliophanus flavipes: Shiny green or bronze; abundant on low herbage in the South of England.
- Sitticus pubescens: Coastal specialist with hairy legs, very common on shingle beaches.
There are more than 300 species of Salticidae across the globe, but in the UK they are relatively small and dull when pitted against tropical relatives such as Phidippus regius.
Do We Have Jumping Spiders UK?
Well, yes — jumping spiders uk really are British! The family Salticidae has been present in the British islands for thousands of years, and fossil evidence from Eocene amber (50 million years ago) indicates how its relatives first appeared in Europe.
These species have evolved alongside UK ecosystems and have no conservation concerns — the majority are listed by the IUCN as “Least Concern”. But habitat loss due to urbanisation pressures local populations. Exotic non-native tropical species sometimes escape or are released by the exotic pet trade but could not survive winter in the UK if released outside.
Jumping Spiders uk as Pets in the UK
Jumping spiders uk are great, low-maintenance pets because they are so curious and long-lived (1–2 years). In the UK, Salticus scenicus slings are occasionally captive-bred but most specimens in the trade are regal (Phidippus regius) or bold (Phidippus audax) imports. Always buy ethically and, if non-natives, check CITES regulations.
Enclosure Setup
- Size: Adult enclosures minimum 10 cm × 10 cm × 15 cm (Critter Keeper or modified deli cups with ventilation holes).
- Substrate: Coconut husk or paper towel with a little moss to prevent dehydration; provide sticks, bark or silk leaves for climbing.
- Decor: Add a dish of water as well as visual barriers to keep stress levels low.
- Cleaning: Clean weekly with soap and warm water; keep out of direct sunlight to prevent heat buildup.
Feeding
Jumping spiders uk are obligate carnivores:
- Food: Insects ½–¾ the spider’s length (houseflies, fruit flies, pinhead crickets).
- Frequency: Adults 2–3 times a week; slings every day.
- Supplements: Gut-load prey; occasional calcium/vitamin dusting for breeding females.
- Hygiene: Remove unconsumed prey after 24 hours to avoid mold.
Humidity and Temperature
Mimic temperate UK conditions:
- Temperature: Day 20–25°C; Night 15–18°C (room temperature fine; use heat mat if needed).
- Humidity: 50–70%. Mist 2–3 times weekly; ventilate to prevent mold.
- Monitoring: Use digital hygrometer/thermometer.
Handling
Jumping spiders uk are fragile — minimise stress:
- Method: Gently coax onto hand with soft paintbrush; never grab.
- Frequency: Occasional (1–2× per month).
- Safety: Wash hands; supervise children. Bites are infrequent and less severe than a bee sting.
Where Can I Buy Jumping Spiders UK
Ethical sourcing prioritises captive-bred specimens:
- Specialist Retailers: BugzUK / The Spider Shop / Invert Aquatics — Phidippus species (£15–£40)
- Online Marketplaces: Preloved, Gumtree, or Facebook groups like “UK Jumping Spiders” (check seller feedback).
- Expos: British Tarantula Society events or Repticon-style shows.
- Wild Collection: Legal but discouraged — take slings only and release adults.
Do not purchase wild imports; support breeders to relieve pressure on wild populations.
How to Recognize Jumping Spiders UK
Distinguish jumpers from other spiders:
- Eyes: 8 eyes in three rows — two large anterior median eyes are primary.
- Body: Compact, robust; cephalothorax broader than abdomen.
- Legs: Short, stout front legs; males often with colourful pedipalps.
- Movement: Jerky, inquisitive jumps up to 50× body length.
ID Tips: Consult the British Arachnological Society’s field guide or iNaturalist app. Take macro photos of eye pattern and colouration.
Jumping Spiders UK – FAQs
Q: Are jumping spiders uk dangerous?
A: No — UK species have mild venom. Bites are uncommon, causing only minor itching.
Q: Do jumping spiders uk have colour vision?
A: Yes; their vision rivals primates’, detecting UV and polarised light for hunting/mating.
Q: How long do jumping spiders uk live?
A: 1–2 years; females live longer than males.
Q: Do they need UVB lighting?
A: No — natural window light is sufficient.
Q: What’s the difference between native and exotic jumpers?
A: Natives are smaller and drabber; exotics offer brighter colours but have similar care requirements.
Conclusion
These are spiders that enrich UK biodiversity & make fascinating pets for responsible keepers. From the ever-present Zebra Spider on our garden walls to flashy imports in glass boxes, nature’s eight-legged acrobats display a range of nature’s cleverness. See them in the wild, cultivate them responsibly, and value their role in pest control. So for the nature lover or budding arachnologist, the world of UK jumping spiders uk awaits.
