How to identify Jumping Spiders

Jumping spiders are easily identified by their compact, robust body and four large, front-facing eyes. Most have hairy black, brown, tan, or grey bodies with more colourful markings. The most common species found in Canadian homes is the bold jumper. These spiders have black bodies, white-striped legs, and white triangular patches on their abdomens. Their fuzzy jaws are often neon green or blue. Adults range from 4 to 20 mm in length.

Signs of an infestation

Unlike the flat, intricately woven webs of other spiders, jumping spiders live in loosely constructed, silk envelopes called retreats. Residents are most likely to spot jumping spiders during the day, since they hunt better with the help of sunlight. They usually hang around windows, doors, and other well-lit areas. To correctly identify the pests, look for jumping, fast reactions, and very quick crawling.

Jumping Spiders Removal

Since even tiny gaps and holes can allow jumping spiders to enter homes, sealing noticeable cracks may not be enough. Contact pest professionals to correctly identify spider problems and receive quick, thorough solutions.

How to prevent Jumping Spiders from invading

Seal cracks in building exteriors and windows, repair or replace screen doors, vacuum around baseboards and under furniture, reduce outdoor clutter, wood piles and ornamental rocks.

Habitat, Diet, and Life Cycle

Habitat

Jumping spiders occupy a variety of habitats, they can found thriving in the woodlands, fields, and gardens found across Canada. While the pests are most often found in yards, they can also be carried inside on plants or clothing. Once inside, they often weave tunnel-like webs under furniture, inside wooden floor cracks, or behind mouldings.

Diet

Like cats, jumping spiders spot their prey from long distances, sneak towards them, and then pounce. Flies, bees, mosquitoes, and other spiders are common targets. While most spiders hunt using webs and their strong sense of touch, these pests use their excellent vision.

Life Cycle

In late spring or early summer, female jumping spiders lay 50 to 200 eggs inside crevices. Female spiders watch over the eggs until they hatch. Immature bold jumper spiders have orange or red markings that fade to white as they age. The pests live two to three years.

Commonly Asked Questions

How worried should I be about jumping spiders?

Jumping spiders can be helpful, since they prey on other insects. While they can bite, the jumping spider bite is not poisonous. If threatened, they tend to flee, rather than bite. But their rapid movements and ability to jump long distances can be alarming, especially to anyone with arachnophobia. While there are certain precautions you can take to prevent a jumping spider infestation, it can be hard to keep them out. If you are worried about jumping spiders invading your home, contact a professional pest control service to stop these pests coming back for good.