Regal Jumping Spider Care Guide
Regal Jumping Spiders (Phidippus regius) are one of the most popular pet jumping spiders thanks to their bright personalities, bold colors, and easy care needs. They are active, curious, and often interact with their keepers, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced hobbyists.
Housing
Enclosure Size: 4"x4"x6" or larger for juveniles; 6"x6"x9" or larger for adults.
Ventilation: Cross-ventilation is important. These spiders thrive in enclosures that allow good airflow.
Climbing & Webbing: Provide plenty of vertical space, cork bark, branches, or décor for building hammocks.
Hides: They create their own silk retreats but benefit from anchor points like leaves or cork flats.
Temperature & Humidity
Temperature: Best kept at 72–80°F.
Humidity: Maintain 40–60%, allowing the enclosure to fully dry between light mistings.
Water: A small side mist 2–3 times weekly gives them droplets to drink.
Lighting
They do not require special lighting, but ambient room light or a low-heat LED helps them stay active and regulate day/night behavior.
Avoid strong heat lamps that may over-dry the enclosure.
Diet
Young spiders can be fed fruit flies (D. hydei) or small crickets.
Larger juveniles and adults can eat crickets, blue bottle flies, waxworms, mealworms, or other appropriate feeders.
Feed 3–4 times per week, removing uneaten prey after 24 hours.
Variety helps keep them healthy and encourages natural hunting behavior.
Water & Hydration
Jumpers drink from droplets rather than dishes.
Lightly mist one enclosure wall—never directly mist the spider.
Molting
They will seal themselves in a silk hammock while molting.
Avoid disturbing them and do not offer food until they have hardened up (usually 2–5 days post-molt).
Temperament
Regals are known for their calm, curious nature.
Most tolerate gentle interaction but can jump quickly.
Always handle over a soft surface to avoid falls.
Lifespan
Females typically live 1–2 years, sometimes longer.
Males generally have shorter lifespans.
Cleaning
Spot-clean webbing and waste as needed.
Full enclosure resets are usually only needed every few months.