Care Guide

Jumping Spider Care Guide - Opus Vita

  1. Introduction to Jumping Spiders at Opus Vita:
    • Enchanting and personable companions.
    • Ideal for those seeking a unique and captivating pet.
  2. Considering a Jumping Spider:
    • Assess time, budget, and willingness to handle prey.
    • Perfect for beginners: Phidippus Regius (Regal Jumping Spider) recommended.
  3. Overcoming Arachnophobia:
    • Ease into interaction, observe if holding is uncomfortable.
    • Enjoy the beauty of spiders through observation.
  4. Essential Supplies:
    • Enclosure: Tall and climbing-friendly (e.g., 15x15x25cm).
    • Adapt enclosure size based on spider age and species.
    • Bottom-opening enclosures recommended to avoid disturbing molting.
  5. Placement and Temperature:
    • Stable temperature (22-26°C) with minimal fluctuations.
    • Cabinets or shelves away from drafts, sunlight, and noise.
    • Avoid areas with chemical exposure.
  6. Decorating the Enclosure:
    • Use aquarium or reptile-safe decorations.
    • Maintain humidity (around 55% for many Phidippus species).
    • Consider artificial flowers or resin ornaments.
  7. Heating:
    • Recommended temperature control: 22-26°C.
    • Utilize a heat mat and thermostat for optimal regulation.
  8. Lighting:
    • 12-hour light cycle with bright LED lamp.
    • Avoid heat-producing bulbs to prevent temperature spikes.
  9. Feeding and Hydration:
    • Water droplets for drinking; mist enclosure daily.
    • Size-appropriate prey: fruit flies, locusts, house flies.
    • Monitor abdomen size for feeding frequency.
  10. Moulting:
    • Understand instar stages (i1, i2, etc.) in spider development.
    • Signs of impending moult: reduced food intake, thickening web.
    • Mist enclosure during pre-moult; adjust feeding accordingly.
  11. Heat Mat Use:
    • Consider a heat mat for consistent warmth.
    • Place behind the enclosure, maintaining a 1cm gap.
    • Monitor activity and feeding for signs of comfort.
  12. Light Requirements:
    • Jumping spiders are sight hunters; provide adequate light.
    • Use a bright LED lamp for a 12-hour light cycle.
  13. Feeding Details:
    • Water droplets for hydration; no water bowl.
    • Size-appropriate prey for various life stages.
    • Carefully manage live prey to avoid injuries.
  14. Handling:
    • Possible to handle, but not a necessity.
    • Use play gyms for non-physical interaction.
    • Ensure basic needs are met for a content spider.
  15. Enclosure Types:
    • Consider bioactive or fantasy enclosures.
    • Ensure sealed, non-toxic materials for the spider's well-being.
  16. Obtaining a Jumping Spider from Opus Vita:
    • Securely packaged for delivery via Royal Mail Special Delivery.
    • Signed for upon delivery; includes snacks during transit.
  17. Multiple Spiders:
    • Avoid keeping multiple spiders together; cannibalistic behavior.
    • Suitable for communal living as slings but monitor closely.
  18. Understanding Terms (I/Instar):
    • "I" stands for instar, representing the number of molts.
    • Jumping spiders can live up to two years, with variations between genders.
  19. Behavioural Concerns:
    • Hiding in a hammock may indicate premoult or egg sac protection.
    • Mist enclosure during premolt; consult care guide for specific signs.

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