Jumping spiders are fascinating creatures, known for their vibrant colors, excellent eyesight, and surprisingly adorable personalities. Many people are drawn to keeping them as pets, but providing the right diet is crucial for their health and longevity. This guide will delve into the best foods for jumping spiders, addressing common concerns and providing expert advice.
What do jumping spiders eat in the wild?
In their natural habitats, jumping spiders are voracious predators, primarily feeding on insects. Their diet consists mainly of flies, crickets, grasshoppers, moths, and other small invertebrates. The size of the prey will vary depending on the size of the spider; larger species might even tackle larger insects. They are ambush predators, meaning they patiently wait for prey to come within striking distance before pouncing.
What should I feed my pet jumping spider?
The best food for pet jumping spiders mirrors their natural diet. Here's a breakdown:
- Crickets: These are a staple food source for many jumping spider owners. Ensure they are appropriately sized – no larger than the spider's abdomen. Newly hatched or very small crickets are ideal for smaller spiderlings. Always dust crickets with calcium and vitamin supplements before feeding.
- Fruit flies (Drosophila): These tiny flies are perfect for spiderlings and smaller jumping spider species. They are readily available at pet stores.
- Mealworms: These can be offered occasionally as a supplemental food source, but they are higher in fat than other options and shouldn't form the basis of the diet.
- House Flies: Though readily available, ensure they are pesticide-free. Catching and preparing house flies may be a hassle for some.
Important Considerations:
- Size Matters: The prey should never be larger than the spider's abdomen. Too large a prey item can injure or even kill the spider.
- Frequency: How often you feed your spider depends on its size and age. Spiderlings need to be fed more frequently than adults. A good guideline is to offer food every 1-3 days, but observe your spider's behavior. If it's not eating, don't force it.
- Variety: Offer a variety of appropriately-sized insects to ensure a balanced diet. Monotonous diets can lead to nutritional deficiencies.
- Gut Loading: Before feeding your spider, gut-load the prey insects with nutritious food to increase the nutritional value for the spider. This is especially important for crickets; feed them high-quality vegetables and fruits for a few days before giving them to the spider.
- Supplements: Dusting the prey insects with calcium and vitamin supplements is essential, especially for growing spiderlings.
How often should I feed my jumping spider?
How often should I feed a baby jumping spider?
Baby jumping spiders, or spiderlings, require more frequent feeding due to their rapid growth. They should be fed every day or every other day with appropriately sized prey, such as fruit flies.
How often should I feed an adult jumping spider?
Adult jumping spiders can be fed every 1-3 days, depending on their size and appetite. Observe your spider's behavior; if it's not eating, it may not need food.
What happens if I overfeed my jumping spider?
Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems in your jumping spider. Monitor your spider's weight and adjust feeding frequency accordingly.
What should I avoid feeding my jumping spiders?
Avoid feeding your jumping spiders anything from the wild that could contain pesticides or parasites. Also avoid giving them large prey items that could potentially injure them. Never feed your jumping spiders anything that isn't an insect, such as bits of meat or other foods intended for humans.
My jumping spider isn't eating. What should I do?
If your jumping spider isn't eating, it could be due to several reasons, including stress, illness, or simply not being hungry. Make sure the enclosure is appropriately sized and has proper humidity and temperature. Try offering a variety of prey items. If the problem persists, consult with an experienced arachnid keeper or veterinarian.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your jumping spider thrives and enjoys a long, healthy life. Remember, responsible pet ownership involves careful observation and providing the best possible care for your fascinating eight-legged friend.
