Regal Jumping Spider
Phidippus regius
The Regal Jumping Spider (Phidippus regius) is one of the most recognizable and beloved jumping spider species in the hobby. Known for their intelligence, curiosity, striking coloration, and relatively forgiving care requirements, Regals are often considered the ideal introduction to the world of jumping spider keeping.
Native to the southeastern United States, particularly Florida and surrounding regions, these charismatic predators have earned a reputation for being both visually stunning and highly interactive.
Quick Facts
Scientific Name
Phidippus regius
Common Name
Regal Jumping Spider
Difficulty Level
Beginner Friendly
Native Range
Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and parts of the southeastern United States
Adult Size
Males
0.5–0.75 inches (13–19 mm)
Females
0.75–1 inch (19–25 mm)
Females are noticeably larger and heavier-bodied than males.
Lifespan
Males
Approximately 1–2 years
Females
Approximately 2–3 years
Lifespan varies based on genetics, husbandry, and environmental conditions.
Why Keep a Regal Jumping Spider?
Regals are one of the most popular pet spiders because they combine beauty, intelligence, and manageable care requirements.
Keepers often describe them as:
Curious
Observant
Interactive
Confident
Easy to observe
Unlike many spiders, Regal Jumpers rely heavily on vision and frequently appear to watch the world around them.
Many individuals learn to recognize routine activities and may voluntarily approach their keeper during feeding or maintenance.
Appearance
Regal Jumping Spiders display remarkable variation in coloration.
Female Coloration
Females may exhibit:
Black and white
Orange
Peach
Pink
Gray
Cream
Various combinations of these colors
Many captive-bred females develop exceptionally vibrant coloration.
Male Coloration
Males are generally:
Black
White
Charcoal
Iridescent green or blue chelicerae
Males often have a more streamlined appearance than females.
Housing Requirements
Enclosure Size
Adults thrive in:
4x4x8 inch enclosures
4x4x6 inch enclosures
Similar vertical habitats
Height is more important than floor space.
Ventilation
Excellent ventilation is essential.
Proper airflow helps prevent:
Mold growth
Stagnant air
Excessive moisture buildup
Climbing Structures
Provide:
Cork bark
Artificial foliage
Branches
Elevated hides
Regals spend much of their time climbing and observing their surroundings.
Temperature & Humidity
Temperature
Ideal Range:
72–82°F (22–28°C)
Short fluctuations are usually tolerated, but consistent temperatures are preferred.
Humidity
Ideal Range:
50–70%
Moderate humidity supports successful molts while reducing the risk of excessively damp conditions.
Feeding
Regal Jumping Spiders are enthusiastic hunters that readily accept a variety of feeder insects.
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)
Prey should always be appropriately sized.
Hydration
Regals do not drink from water dishes.
Instead, provide:
Water droplets
Light misting
Hydration stations when appropriate
Fresh water availability is important for overall health and successful molting.
Behavior
One of the reasons Regals are so popular is their engaging behavior.
Common behaviors include:
Exploration
Regals frequently investigate their surroundings.
Observation
Many individuals will watch movement outside their enclosure.
Hunting
They are active visual predators and often stalk prey before attacking.
Web Building
Regals create silk retreats used for:
Sleeping
Resting
Molting
Egg sac production
Molting
Molting is a natural part of growth.
Signs of premolt often include:
Reduced activity
Refusal of food
Increased webbing
Spending more time in retreats
Never disturb a spider while it is molting.
Allow the process to complete naturally.
Handling
While no spider enjoys handling in the same way a mammal might, Regal Jumping Spiders are generally considered one of the more handle-tolerant spider species.
If handling is desired:
Move slowly
Allow the spider to choose interaction
Avoid forcing contact
Keep handling sessions brief
Always prioritize the spider's comfort and safety.
Breeding
Regal Jumping Spiders are among the most commonly bred jumping spiders in captivity.
Successful breeding requires:
Healthy mature adults
Proper feeding
Appropriate environmental conditions
Careful observation during introductions
Females may produce multiple egg sacs from a single successful pairing.
Breeding should only be attempted after gaining a solid understanding of jumping spider husbandry.
Common Beginner Concerns
"My Regal isn't eating."
Often caused by:
Premolt
Recent feeding
Environmental changes
Stress from relocation
"My Regal stays in its hammock."
This is usually normal behavior.
Many Regals spend significant time resting in silk retreats.
"My Regal won't come out."
Patience is key.
Some individuals are naturally more shy than others.
Is a Regal Jumping Spider Right for You?
A Regal Jumping Spider may be an excellent choice if you are looking for:
✓ A beginner-friendly species
✓ An active visual hunter
✓ A highly observable pet
✓ A species with extensive husbandry information
✓ A spider with remarkable personality and beauty
For many keepers, the Regal Jumping Spider is the species that sparks a lifelong fascination with jumping spiders and the incredible world of invertebrate keeping.
Tiny Coven Notes
At Tiny Coven Jumpers, Regal Jumping Spiders are one of our favorite species to work with because of their intelligence, adaptability, and incredible variety of colors and personalities. Whether you're purchasing your very first jumping spider or adding to an established collection, Phidippus regius remains one of the most rewarding species in the hobby.
Difficulty: Beginner
Temperature: 72–82°F
Humidity: 50–70%
Adult Size: Up to 1 inch
Tiny Coven Rating: Excellent First Jumping Spider