This housing tips can be applied to the most of Phidippus genus, but is specifically tailored to the most commonly kept Regal jumping spider (Phidippus regius species).
Arboreal enclosure and decor
Jumping spiders are arboreal spider which means will appreciate an enclosure that is tall. For a small spiderling you will want to use a smaller enclosure (aprox. 10x10x15cm / 4x4x6 inch), however, it will need to be upgraded to a larger one once the spider grows. (aprox size 15x15x20cm / 6x6x10 inch)
The enclosure should have good ventilation to prevent stagnated air and mould growth. Ventilation holes should be small enough for the spider not to be able to take advantage of them and escape. On the other hand, holes have to be big enough to allow airflow.
Use an enclosure with a door on the side. It will benefit as the spider will most likely build its sac on the very top of the enclosure. A top lid will disturb a spider when enclosure needs to be maintained.
Make sure to add some decorations for the spider to explore. For example, a few sticks or pieces of cork bark with some fake plants should be enough to provide the spider with a variety of terrains to climb on. Use materials non-susceptible to mould.
Smoothie cup with dome lid – for raising baby spiders – you will need to secure mesh on the top hole and poke holes on the sides for cross ventilation
Spoodernest acrylic enclosures – Perfect enclosure for jumping spiders was created based on 6 years of keeping hundreds of Phidippus sp. Jumping spiders. I have tried many types of enclosures, but none of them were just right. So we set a goal to design the ultimate jumping spider enclosure which will look great and have all the necessary functionality:
- Large front door
- Two hinge hold on the bottom of the door
- Clear throughout for a better view of the spood thanks to Cast PERSPEX®
- Enclosure is welded together for added durability
- Easy to use door hatch
- Great amount of ventilation
- Enclosure will be shipped in a ‘ready to go’ assembled way.
Size: 15x15x20cm
Humidity
Keep it dryish but not completely dry. In nature, jumping spiders prefer living on brick walls in dry and bright environments. However, they always take the opportunity to find a more humid environment and drinking water when needed. Keep one corner of enclosure slightly moisten. It is advisable to moist substrate every now and then. It will allow periods of higher humidity subsequently followed by a dry period.
While keeping enclosure on a dry side, make sure you lightly mist the side wall of the enclosure every other day. This will allow the spider to hydrate itself using water drops left after misting.
You can use a spray bottle for light misting.
Lighting
Make sure you place the enclosure in a brightly lit place in your house. Spiders enjoy the light and will be more active and willing to hunt in this kind of environment. You can either get Exo terra compact dome that will fit your enclosure or as alternative use LED lamp positioned directly over enclosure set to 12h light a day.
While jumping spiders can live happily in average room temperature they will enjoy temperatures around 28-32C if it can be provided. LED lamp usually can provide a slight temperature gradient too.
To conclude, by following these simple steps you have just read about Regal Jumping Spider Housing, you will make your exotic pet even happier!