Zebra Jumping Spider

Scientific Name: Salticus scenicus

Order & Family: Order Araneae, Family Salticidae

Size: 5 to 9 millimeters (approximately 0.2 to 0.35 inches)

Zebra Jumping Spider

Natural Habitat

Found on vertical surfaces such as walls, rocks, and tree trunks, especially around sunlit homes and buildings.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds on small insects such as flies, gnats, and mosquitoes by stalking and pouncing.

Behavior Patterns

Diurnal hunters with excellent vision; they do not build webs to catch prey but use a silk 'safety line' before jumping. They exhibit complex courtship dances.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans and not aggressive; highly beneficial to ecosystems and homeowners as they provide natural pest control for indoor and outdoor insects.

Identified on: 4/19/2026