When people search for the “friendliest spider,” they are typically looking for a species that is the least threatening to humans. Spiders are solitary creatures and do not possess the capacity for social bonding or affection as mammals do. Therefore, “friendly” is an interpretation of a spider’s behavior, meaning it is docile, non-aggressive, and harmless. The vast majority of the world’s over 50,000 spider species pose no threat to humans, but only a few exhibit the calm demeanor that earns them this human-assigned label.
Defining “Friendly” in the Arachnid World
For an arachnid to be considered “friendly” by human standards, it must meet specific behavioral and biological criteria. The first criterion is a low propensity to bite when encountered, meaning the spider prefers to flee or use less aggressive defense mechanisms instead of immediately striking. A second factor is that any venom they possess must not be medically significant to humans, meaning an accidental bite would result in symptoms no worse than a minor insect sting. Species fitting this description often display a noticeable lack of fear when approached, sometimes even exhibiting curiosity toward observers.
The Most Docile Spiders (The Jumpers)
The spiders most commonly cited as the “friendliest” belong to the family Salticidae, known as jumping spiders. These tiny, charismatic arachnids are the primary answer to docility because of their exceptional visual acuity and inquisitive nature. Jumping spiders possess four pairs of eyes, including a large pair of forward-facing eyes that grant them acute vision and depth perception. This enables them to track and observe objects, including humans. This tendency to turn and “look” directly at an observer is often mistaken for curiosity, which contributes significantly to their friendly reputation.
These spiders are active hunters during the day, making them more visible and interactive than nocturnal species. Their small size, typically 5 to 25 millimeters, makes them non-intimidating. If startled, a jumping spider’s first reaction is to jump away to escape, not to bite. The species Phidippus audax, or the bold jumper, is a common example known for this bold yet non-aggressive behavior.
The Gentle Giants (Pet Tarantulas)
Among the larger arachnids, certain species of tarantulas are also considered gentle, making them popular in the exotic pet trade. These “gentle giants” are almost exclusively New World tarantulas, which originate from the Americas. New World species possess a common defense mechanism of flicking urticating hairs from their abdomen when threatened, which causes itching and irritation to a predator’s skin or eyes. This hair-flicking is generally their preferred defense over biting, contributing to their docile reputation.
Two specific examples frequently recommended for beginners are the Mexican Red Knee (Brachypelma hamorii) and the Chilean Rose Hair (Grammostola rosea). The Mexican Red Knee is beloved for its calm demeanor and typically retreats into its burrow when disturbed. The Chilean Rose Hair is also known for its hardiness and generally placid temperament. In contrast, Old World tarantulas from Africa, Asia, and Europe lack these urticating hairs and tend to be faster, more defensive, and possess more potent venom, making them unsuitable for the “friendly” label.
Safe Interaction and Observation
For those interested in observing these docile spiders, whether in the wild or as pets, it is important to prioritize their well-being. Even the most docile species, like jumping spiders and New World tarantulas, should generally not be handled frequently. Handling can cause significant stress to the spider, and a drop from a short height can be fatal due to their fragile exoskeletons. Ethical observation means appreciating their unique behaviors without unnecessary physical contact.
If a wild spider needs to be relocated from inside a home, the safest method is to use a clear container and a piece of paper to gently scoop the animal and release it outdoors. Understanding that their “friendliness” is a reflection of low defensiveness and excellent vision allows for respectful observation. This approach ensures the safety of both the human and the arachnid, allowing people to appreciate these fascinating creatures without fear.