Jumping Spiders

Jumping spiders are small arachnids with relatively short legs; they typically range from 1/8 to 3/4 of an inch long. They often look fuzzy and may appear in a variety of colors, including black, brown, gray, and sometimes iridescent greens or blues. Their large front eyes give them excellent vision compared to other types of spiders.

Why are they called jumping spiders?

As you can probably guess, jumping spiders have an incredible ability to leap, hence their name.  Unlike other spiders that rely on webs to catch prey, jumping spiders use their powerful hind legs to pounce on insects. They can leap several times their body length to catch prey or move quickly from one spot to another.

Jumping spiders are nocturnal, right?

Unlike most spiders, jumping spiders are active during the daytime. In fact, they prefer sunshine. 

Do jumping spiders live in groups?

No, jumping spiders are solitary and may fight to death or eat one another in the same area. 

Do jumping spiders bite?

Yes, jumping spiders can bite but are not usually aggressive toward people. Bites typically occur if the spider feels threatened or cornered.

Are jumping spiders dangerous?

Jumping spiders are not considered dangerous to humans. They have fangs and produce venom, but their venom is not typically a threat to health. Most people experience only minor symptoms, such as mild swelling or redness. 

Do jumping spiders build webs?

We touched on this above, but jumping spiders don’t spin traditional webs to catch prey like other spiders do. Instead, they’re hunters (like wolf spiders) that stalk and pounce on their prey. However, they use silk to create protective shelters or "retreats" where they can rest or hide from predators. These silk retreats are often found in cracks, under leaves, or behind objects. 

Do jumping spiders usually infest homes?

Jumping spiders don’t typically infest homes in large numbers. They prefer outdoor environments, such as gardens and trees, where they hunt insects. They may wander indoors occasionally, especially when the weather gets colder, or they are searching for food. 

Where do jumping spiders live indoors?

Jumping spiders may build retreats indoors, around doors and windows, under furniture, in corners, in fabric folds, and the cracks of wood floors.

How do I know if I have a jumping spider problem?

Unlike rodents and insects, jumping spiders do not leave behind droppings and other signs. The only way to tell if you have an infestation is to see these pests in or around your home. 

What should I do if I find jumping spiders in my house?

If you’ve discovered jumping spiders in your home, there’s a very good chance you have other pests crawling or flying around, and that’s a problem. For relief from spiders, insects, and rodents, Pine State Pest Solutions offers effective, affordable, and year-round home pest control services in several Maine counties, including Androscoggin, Kennebec, Oxford, Cumberland, and York. Our locally owned and operated pest control company will help you eliminate and prevent pests from taking over. Contact us today for more information or to request an inspection!  

How do I prevent a jumping spider infestation?

Although jumping spiders aren’t a regular inside homes and other structures, it’s still a good idea to take steps to keep these pests and others out. With that in mind, here are a few pest prevention tips to implement:

• Seal cracks, gaps, or holes around windows, doors, and your home's foundation.
• Install door sweeps.
• Replace or repair broken window screens and screen doors. 
• Reduce clutter in the garage, closets, and other rooms with plenty of hiding places for spiders, bugs, and rodents. 
• Keep outdoor lights off when not in use to discourage bugs that jumping spiders eat from lurking about. 
• Trim bushes, shrubs, and tree branches so they don’t touch the sides of your home. 
• Eliminate insects that have infested your house or yard. 
• Check firewood for spiders (and other insects) before you bring it indoors.