Jumping spiders are a diverse group of arachnids, with over 6,000 species identified globally, including around 300 in the United States and Canada. These fascinating creatures are known for their exceptional eyesight, which allows them to see in almost 360 degrees, and their remarkable ability to jump. Unlike many spiders that build webs to catch prey, jumping spiders actively hunt during the day, using their keen vision to stalk and pounce.
Do They Bite?
Jumping spiders can bite humans, but such occurrences are rare and almost exclusively a defensive action. They are not aggressive towards people and typically prefer to escape rather than confront a perceived threat. A bite most often occurs when a spider feels cornered, threatened, or accidentally squeezed, such as when it is unintentionally pressed against skin. Their primary defense mechanism is to flee, often by jumping away, or to raise their front legs in a defensive posture. Their fangs are small, and while strong enough to pierce human skin, they are primarily adapted for subduing insect prey.
What to Expect from a Bite
If a jumping spider bite occurs, the symptoms are typically mild and localized, often compared to a mosquito bite or a bee sting. You might experience a small, red bump at the bite site, accompanied by minor burning or stinging sensations, slight redness, itching, and minimal swelling. Jumping spiders do possess venom, which they use to immobilize their small prey. However, this venom is not medically significant or harmful to humans. In rare instances, individuals might experience a mild allergic reaction, which could manifest as dizziness, nausea, or more widespread skin reactions; however, these are uncommon, and bites usually heal quickly without complications.
Jumping Spider Behavior and Risk
They are active hunters that rely on their excellent vision to spot and pounce on prey, rather than spinning webs to capture food. Their hunting strategy involves stalking their prey and then leaping up to 40 times their body length to make a capture, often using a silk dragline as a safety measure. This active hunting style means they are constantly moving and are not typically found hiding in dark, undisturbed areas like some other spider species. They are beneficial predators in ecosystems, helping to control insect populations, including pests like mosquitoes and flies. Overall, jumping spiders pose a minimal risk to people and are largely harmless creatures that contribute to natural pest control.