Bold Jumping Spider, Daring Jumping Spider
Phidippus audax
Salticidae (Jumping Spiders), Order Araneae. Characterized by excellent vision and hydraulic jumping ability.
Physical Description
Compact, robust body with a somewhat rectangular cephalothorax and an ovoid abdomen. The body is covered in dense hairs (setae), giving it a fuzzy appearance. They are known for their iridescent green or blue chelicerae (mouthparts).
Size Estimate
Body length typically 8-15 mm for females, 6-13 mm for males. This specimen appears to be an adult female based on the broad abdomen and size relative to the siding.
Coloration & Markings
Primarily black base color. The abdomen features a distinct large central spot (white, orange, or red) and two smaller posterior spots. Juveniles often have orange or red spots that turn white as they mature.
Web Type
Do not build hunting webs. They are active pursuit hunters. However, they build silk 'retreats' or pupentacular sacs for molting, sleeping, and protecting egg sacs.
Eye Arrangement
Four pairs of eyes (eight total). The anterior median eyes (AME) are massive and forward-facing, providing high-resolution binocular vision. The other six eyes provide peripheral and motion detection.
Leg Characteristics
Strong, thick legs capable of rapid jumping and grasping prey. The front pair is the longest and most muscular. Legs are black with some light banding or greyish hairs visible upon closer inspection.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Neurotoxic venom specialized for paralyzing insects. It is not considered dangerous to humans. Potency is low, comparable to a mild bee sting.
Medical Significance
Low medical significance. Bites are rare and usually only occur if the spider is pressed against skin. Symptoms include localized redness, minor swelling, and transient pain. No specialized treatment is typically required.
Safety Recommendations
No action is needed as they are harmless. If indoors, they can be easily relocated using a cup and a piece of paper. They are beneficial to have around gardens.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Common across North America (Canada to Mexico). Preferred habitats include grasslands, open woodlands, gardens, and man-made structures like fences and exterior walls.
Behavior & Temperament
Highly intelligent and curious; they often track human movement with their large eyes. They are active diurnal hunters that stalk and pounce on prey. They are generally non-aggressive toward humans and will retreat if threatened.
Diet & Prey
Carnivorous, eating a wide variety of insects and other spiders. They utilize their exceptional vision to stalk prey within centimeters before leaping and biting.
Seasonal Activity
Most active from late spring through early autumn. Often seen basking on sun-warmed walls or fences during midday.
Description
The Bold Jumper is one of the most charismatic spiders in North America. With its fuzzy black body and bright iridescent 'jaws,' it often resembles a tiny eight-legged cat. They are favorites among nature enthusiasts for their curious behavior and visible 'personality.'
Key Features
Large central white/orange abdominal spot, iridescent green chelicerae, and very large forward-facing eyes.
Similar Species
Phidippus regius (Regal Jumping Spider) which is larger and found in more southern climates, and Phidippus workmani. Distinguishable by specific abdominal patterns.
Life Cycle
Females lay several hundred eggs in a silk sac within a retreat. Spiderlings are self-sufficient upon emerging. They live approximately one year, with maturation occurring in early summer.
Ecological Importance
Critical natural pest controllers. They consume large numbers of flies, moths, crickets, and garden pests, maintaining balance in domestic and wild ecosystems.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by IUCN, but considered common and stable throughout its range.
Interesting Facts
They can jump up to 50 times their body length. They also use a silk 'dragline' as a safety tether when jumping so they can climb back up if they miss their target.
Photography Tips
Focus on the large front eyes to capture 'personality.' High shutter speeds are needed as they move in quick, jerky bursts. Close-up macro shots show the iridescent green chelicerae best.
Identified: 2026-07-19T20:22:19.440917