Jumping spiders are fascinating creatures, captivating with their vibrant colors, impressive hunting skills, and endearingly curious nature. Owning one can be a rewarding experience, but providing the right diet is crucial for their health and longevity. This guide will cover everything you need to know about feeding your jumping spider, addressing common questions and concerns.
What do Jumping Spiders Eat in the Wild?
In their natural habitat, jumping spiders are voracious predators, primarily feeding on insects. Their diet typically consists of:
- Flies: These are a staple food source, readily available and easy for many jumping spider species to catch.
- Moths: Similar to flies, moths offer a good source of nutrition.
- Grasshoppers: Larger species of jumping spiders might successfully hunt grasshoppers.
- Other small insects: This can include crickets, beetles, aphids, and other small invertebrates.
What should I feed my pet jumping spider?
Captive jumping spiders need a similar diet to their wild counterparts. Here's a breakdown of suitable foods:
- Fruit flies (Drosophila): These tiny flies are ideal for smaller jumping spider species and spiderlings. They're readily available at pet stores and easy to culture at home.
- House flies: Larger jumping spiders can handle house flies, offering a more substantial meal. However, ensure they are not treated with insecticides.
- Crickets (pinhead or small): Small crickets are a good option, but ensure they are appropriately sized for your spider. Larger crickets can pose a threat to smaller spiders.
- Mealworms (small): While less ideal than live prey, small mealworms can be offered occasionally as a supplemental food source. Always ensure they are soft and readily consumed.
Important Note: Avoid feeding your jumping spider anything that is larger than its abdomen.
How often should I feed my jumping spider?
Feeding frequency depends on the size and age of your spider. Spiderlings (young spiders) require more frequent feeding, ideally daily or every other day. Adult jumping spiders can be fed every 2-3 days, or even less frequently if they're not actively hunting.
Always remove any uneaten prey after a few hours to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria in the enclosure.
What about water?
Water is as essential as food for your jumping spider. Provide water via a small water dish or by misting the enclosure lightly every few days.
Can I feed my jumping spider mealworms or other commercially available insects?
While mealworms and other commercially available insects can be used as a supplementary food source, they should not form the basis of your jumping spider's diet. Live prey is far superior in terms of nutritional value and provides the essential hunting stimulation that these active predators require.
My jumping spider isn't eating. What should I do?
If your jumping spider isn't eating, several factors could be at play:
- Molting: Jumping spiders molt periodically, shedding their exoskeleton. During this time, they generally won't eat.
- Stress: Changes in environment, handling, or other stressors can impact their appetite.
- Illness or injury: If your spider shows signs of illness or injury, consult an experienced spider keeper or veterinarian.
- Inappropriate prey: Ensure that the prey is appropriately sized and of a type your spider readily consumes.
How do I handle and feed my jumping spider?
The best way to avoid harming yourself or your pet spider is to gently use tweezers or forceps to offer the prey. Avoid handling the spider directly, as they might become defensive.
Conclusion
Providing a proper diet is essential for the well-being of your jumping spider. By following these guidelines and paying close attention to your spider's behavior and appetite, you can help ensure a long, healthy life for this fascinating creature. Remember, research your specific jumping spider species for potentially more refined feeding recommendations, as nutritional needs can vary slightly.
