Bold Jumping Spider
Phidippus audax
The Bold Jumping Spider (Phidippus audax) is one of North America's most widespread and recognizable jumping spider species. Known for its curious personality, impressive hunting ability, and forgiving husbandry requirements, the Bold Jumping Spider is often recommended as one of the best species for new keepers.
Despite their name, Bold Jumping Spiders are not aggressive. The term "bold" refers more to their confident behavior and willingness to explore than any tendency toward aggression.
Their adaptability, hardiness, and widespread availability have made them a favorite among both beginner and experienced keepers alike.
Quick Facts
Scientific Name
Phidippus audax
Common Name
Bold Jumping Spider
Difficulty Level
Beginner Friendly
Native Range
Throughout much of the United States, southern Canada, and northern Mexico
Adult Size
Males
0.5–0.75 inches (13–19 mm)
Females
0.5–0.8 inches (13–20 mm)
Females are typically larger and more robust than males.
Lifespan
Males
Approximately 1–2 years
Females
Approximately 1.5–3 years
Individual lifespan varies based on genetics, husbandry, and environmental conditions.
Why Keep a Bold Jumping Spider?
Few species are as adaptable and beginner-friendly as Phidippus audax.
Bold Jumpers are known for being:
Hardy
Curious
Active hunters
Easy to observe
Adaptable to a variety of environments
Because they naturally occur across a large geographic range, they tend to tolerate minor husbandry fluctuations better than many tropical species.
Appearance
Bold Jumping Spiders are instantly recognizable by their striking black coloration and distinctive abdominal markings.
Juveniles
Young spiders often display:
Orange spots
Cream markings
Bronze accents
Adults
Most adults develop:
Black bodies
White abdominal spots
Metallic green or blue chelicerae
The iconic green chelicerae are often one of the first features new keepers notice.
Housing Requirements
Enclosure Size
Adults do well in:
4x4x6 inch enclosures
4x4x8 inch enclosures
Similar vertically oriented habitats
Height remains more important than floor space.
Ventilation
Excellent airflow is essential.
Proper ventilation helps prevent:
Mold growth
Excess humidity
Stagnant conditions
Climbing Opportunities
Provide:
Cork bark
Artificial plants
Branches
Elevated hides
Bold Jumpers enjoy exploring elevated areas and often create hammocks near the top of the enclosure.
Temperature & Humidity
Temperature
Ideal Range:
70–80°F (21–27°C)
Most household temperatures are suitable.
Humidity
Ideal Range:
40–60%
Bold Jumpers generally prefer slightly drier conditions than many tropical species.
Good ventilation is often more important than maintaining high humidity.
Feeding
Bold Jumping Spiders are enthusiastic hunters with strong feeding responses.
Spiderlings
Melanogaster fruit flies
Hydei fruit flies
Juveniles
Large fruit flies
Small bottle flies
Small roaches
Adults
Bottle flies
House flies
Small roaches
Mealworms (occasionally)
Always offer appropriately sized prey.
Hydration
Bold Jumpers do not require water dishes.
Provide hydration through:
Water droplets
Light misting
Occasional moisture stations
Avoid oversaturating the enclosure.
Behavior
One of the reasons Phidippus audax is so popular is its engaging personality.
Active Exploration
Bold Jumpers frequently investigate their surroundings and often appear curious about movement outside their enclosure.
Excellent Hunters
They are confident visual predators that rely on eyesight rather than webs to locate prey.
Observation
Many individuals will watch their keepers during enclosure maintenance or feeding.
Web Construction
Bold Jumpers create silk hammocks for:
Sleeping
Resting
Molting
Shelter
Molting
Molting is a normal and essential part of growth.
Signs of premolt may include:
Refusal of food
Increased webbing
Reduced activity
Spending more time in retreats
Never disturb a spider while it is molting.
Allow the process to occur naturally.
Handling
Bold Jumping Spiders are often considered one of the most approachable species for gentle interaction.
If handling is desired:
Move slowly
Let the spider approach voluntarily
Avoid sudden movements
Keep sessions short
Remember that each spider has its own personality and comfort level.
Breeding
Phidippus audax is one of the most commonly bred jumping spider species in North America.
Successful breeding requires:
Healthy mature adults
Proper feeding
Safe introductions
Careful monitoring
Females may produce multiple egg sacs after a successful pairing.
Breeding should only be attempted after developing a solid understanding of jumping spider husbandry.
Common Beginner Concerns
"My Bold Jumper isn't eating."
Common causes include:
Premolt
Recent feeding
Environmental changes
Relocation stress
"My spider spends all day in its hammock."
This is completely normal.
Jumping spiders often spend significant time resting in silk retreats.
"My spider isn't very active."
Activity levels vary between individuals and may change during molting cycles.
Is a Bold Jumping Spider Right for You?
A Bold Jumping Spider may be the perfect choice if you're looking for:
✓ A beginner-friendly species
✓ A hardy and adaptable jumper
✓ An active hunter
✓ A species with extensive husbandry information
✓ A visually striking spider with metallic green chelicerae
For many keepers, Phidippus audax serves as the ideal first introduction to the world of jumping spiders.
Tiny Coven Notes
At Tiny Coven Jumpers, Bold Jumping Spiders are valued for their resilience, fascinating behaviors, and beginner-friendly nature. Their adaptability makes them an excellent starting point for new keepers while still offering plenty to appreciate for experienced enthusiasts.
Difficulty: Beginner
Temperature: 70–80°F
Humidity: 40–60%
Adult Size: Up to 0.8 inches
Tiny Coven Rating: Excellent First Jumping Spider & Ideal Beginner Species