Jumping Spiders

Facts About Jumping Spiders

These spiders are very close cousins to each other — jumping spiders and sac spiders do not spin webs to trap their prey. Instead, both varieties stalk their prey. Both are found in a variety of different habitats and are identified by their unique ways of hunting and hiding.

Jumping Spider Bites

These spiders are not particularly harmful to humans.

When they bite, they will only do so if they are accidentally pressed against the skin or they are disturbed. You may feel a sharp pain, or it might go unnoticed. This may produce redness and some irritation but it will subside after a day or two.

If you have a greater sensitivity to venom, your symptoms may be more severe. Cramping, nausea, and fever may occur if this is the case. If this happens, immediately seek medical attention.

Jumping Spider Diet & Behavior

These spiders will feed on a variety of small insects. The jumping spider will secrete some silk to anchor it, then jump on top of its prey. This allows them to tether back should the prey shake them off or they fall from their target.

Once the jumping spider is on top of its prey, it will bite and inject venom, paralyzing its victim and allowing the spider to ingest it. These are seen on walls, ceilings, window sills, and other areas around the home.

Sac spiders are also carnivorous, coming out at night to feed. Like the jumping spider, you’ll see them on walls and ceilings, as well as under logs and leaves.

Types of Jumping Spiders

Jumping Spider Identification

These are small to medium-sized spiders that are between ¼ and ½ an inch long. Their bodies are darkly colored with white marks scattered across them, however, brightly colored bodies have also been observed.

You will know if you have a jumping spider around because it will run sideways and backward. It will also leap on its prey when they need to feed.

Sac Spider Identification

These are also small spiders that measure ¼ to ⅜ of an inch long. They have pale yellow or green bodies, sometimes with a streak of orange. They have eight eyes arranged in two rows on their heads. When they are found outdoors, they will roll up leaves into a tube or hide under stones for shelter.

Jumping Spiders in the House & the Garden

These spiders don’t normally need to be controlled, but their presence can be lessened by keeping a clean environment.

Clear away any debris from the outside of your home. This includes rotting wood and rocks that may be harboring the spiders. Seal any crack that the spiders may enter through. Installing screens around doors and windows will also prevent them from entering.

If it is possible, get rid of other pests that spiders may prey on like flies, cockroaches, and ants. This will eliminate their food source and discourage them from sticking around.

Vacuuming any storage spaces where the spiders may hide will also help.

Installing sticky traps will not only trap and kill these spiders, but it will also help you identify where the spiders occur most often. This will let you effectively spot and treat any heavily infested areas. You shouldn’t need insecticides, but they can be employed by licensed professionals if the problem persists.