Bug Identifier
Bold Jumping Spider
Community identification

Bold Jumping Spider

Phidippus audax

Order & Family
Order Araneae, Family Salticidae
Size
Typically 8 to 15 mm for females; 6 to 13 mm for males.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in fields and grasslands but often inhabits man-made structures such as houses, fences, and gardens.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds on a variety of insects like flies, moths, and beetles, and sometimes other spiders.

Behavior Patterns

Active day hunters with exceptional vision. They do not build webs to catch prey; instead, they stalk and pounce on their targets. Known for their curiosity and ability to jump many times their body length.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans and very unlikely to bite unless handled roughly. They are highly beneficial to ecosystems and homeowners as they act as natural pest control by eating common household insects.