25 Types of Jumping Spiders (Photos)

There are hundreds of types of jumping spiders found across North America, and they’re quite different from the typical house spiders most people are used to. Instead of building webs, they actively hunt their prey using sharp vision and powerful back legs for quick, precise jumps. Most are tiny, often no bigger than a pencil eraser, but they’re known for their alert movements, curious behavior, and expressive faces.

Some species are common backyard residents, while others are favorites in the exotic pet hobby. In this guide, we’ll highlight 25 unique species, giving you a closer look at what sets each one apart.

1. Regal jumping spider

Scientific name: Phidippus regius

The regal jumping spider is one of the largest and most recognizable species in North America. Native to the southeastern United States, it’s commonly seen in shrubs, gardens, and even around buildings. This spider has a strong, compact body and bold coloration. Females are usually black with clear white markings, while males tend to be lighter in color and may show orange, gray, or even pinkish hues.

This species is also one of the most popular jumping spiders in the pet hobby. Its calm temperament, curious movements, and expressive behavior make it a favorite among beginners and collectors alike. It’s known for tracking motion with its large eyes and may even appear to turn and watch you when observed up close.

2. Bold jumping spider

Scientific name: Phidippus audax

The bold jumping spider is one of the most widespread jumping spider species in the United States. It can be found in fields, gardens, forest edges, and even inside homes. This species is usually black with white or orange spots on the abdomen, and it has metallic green or blue chelicerae that catch the light. Its sturdy body and confident movements make it easy to recognize.

Phidippus audax is also one of the most common species kept as a pet. It’s hardy, curious, and active during the day, which makes it engaging to watch. Although not as large as the regal jumping spider, it’s just as interactive
and easy to care for, making it another great choice for beginners.

3. Daring jumping spider

Scientific name: Phidippus clarus

The daring jumping spider is a close relative of the bold jumper and shares many visual traits, including a dark body with light spots and iridescent chelicerae. It’s commonly found throughout the eastern and central U.S., especially in grasslands, meadows, and shrubs. Though smaller than some of its cousins, it’s still easy to spot thanks to its quick, deliberate movements.

Phidippus clarus is occasionally kept in captivity but isn’t as common in the pet trade as other members of its genus. Still, it’s frequently encountered outdoors and often mistaken for P. audax. Its sharp vision and agile jumping ability make it an efficient and impressive little predator.

4. Tan jumping spider

Scientific name: Platycryptus undatus

The tan jumping spider is a flat-bodied species that blends easily into wooden surfaces, tree bark, and fences. It’s one of the most frequently encountered jumping spiders in the eastern and central United States, often seen basking on sunny walls or scuttling across porch railings. Its body is usually mottled with brown and gray patterns, giving it excellent camouflage.

Platycryptus undatus is not a major player in the pet trade but is admired by nature lovers and photographers for its calm behavior and accessibility. Its flattened shape and subtle coloration set it apart from the bolder, flashier members of the jumping spider family.

5. Zebra jumping spider

Scientific name: Salticus scenicus

The zebra jumping spider is a small species named for its black-and-white striped pattern, which resembles the markings of a zebra. It’s commonly found across the northern U.S., often on walls, fences, rocks, and other vertical surfaces. Despite its size, this spider is an energetic and bold hunter, using its excellent eyesight to stalk and pounce on tiny insects.

Salticus scenicus is not typically kept as a pet due to its small size, but it’s one of the easiest species to observe in the wild. Its approachable behavior and distinctive look make it a favorite among spider watchers and backyard naturalists.

6. Red-backed jumping spider

Scientific name: Phidippus johnsoni

Known for its bright red abdomen and contrasting black body, this species is one of the most recognizable jumping spiders in the western United States. It prefers dry, open habitats like coastal dunes and chaparral, but can also be seen around homes and gardens. The vibrant coloration helps distinguish it from other spiders and may serve as a warning to predators.

Phidippus johnsoni is occasionally kept as a pet, though it’s more commonly admired in its natural environment. Its bold appearance and relatively large size make it easy to spot and fun to observe in the wild.

7. Apache jumping spider

Scientific name: Phidippus apacheanus

This southwestern species stands out with its striking red-orange abdomen and black cephalothorax. Found mainly in desert and scrubland regions, the Apache jumping spider is active during the day and is a confident, fast-moving hunter. Its coloration is similar to P. johnsoni, but the pattern and range help distinguish the two.

Though not as commonly kept as other Phidippus species, P. apacheanus is still sometimes seen in the pet trade. Its dramatic look and energetic behavior make it a memorable species for those who encounter it.

8. Canopy jumping spider

Scientific name: Phidippus otiosus

Native to the southeastern U.S., this species tends to stay higher up in trees and shrubs, which is why it’s often called the canopy jumping spider. It has a sturdy build and is typically gray or brown with lighter markings. While it may not be as colorful as some of its relatives, it’s still an active and curious spider.

Phidippus otiosus is sometimes kept by hobbyists, especially those interested in observing less common jumping spiders. Its tree-dwelling habits and preference for natural cover make it a bit trickier to find than ground-dwelling species.

9. Putnam’s jumping spider

Scientific name: Phidippus putnami

This medium-sized jumping spider is widely distributed across parts of the United States and is sometimes confused with other Phidippus species due to its similar shape and markings. It has a dark body with light spots and often shows iridescent green or blue chelicerae. Its movement is deliberate and bold, making it stand out to observers.

They’re not commonly kept as pets, but you could encounter one in natural habitats. It favors tall grasses, weedy fields, and open shrubbery, where it actively hunts during the day.

10. Golden jumping spider

Scientific name: Paraphidippus aurantius

This metallic green or golden spider catches light in a way that makes it look almost jewel-like. It can be found in gardens, forest edges, and overgrown lots throughout the eastern and southern U.S. The body shape is similar to other larger jumpers, but its bright sheen makes it unmistakable once spotted.

Although Paraphidippus aurantius is not a common pet spider, its striking appearance has made it a favorite among macro photographers and spider enthusiasts. It tends to perch in exposed areas, giving observers a clear view of its shimmering body.

11. Twin-flagged jumping spider

Scientific name: Anasaitis canosa

Small and quick, this spider is best known for the two bright white markings on its front legs that resemble tiny flags. These markings play a role in communication and courtship. The species is found mainly in the southeastern U.S., particularly in Florida, where it’s often seen on walls, leaves, and tree trunks.

The twin-flagged is a fascinating species to watch in the wild. Its high energy and expressive leg movements make it one of the more animated jumping spiders you’re likely to encounter outdoors.

12. Sylvana jumping spider

Scientific name: Colonus sylvanus

Commonly found in forested areas and woodland edges, this species has a lean, agile body and moves quickly across bark and vegetation. Its coloration is usually brown or gray, with subtle striping or mottling that helps it blend into natural surroundings. You’re most likely to see it on trees or wooden fences during warm months.

The Sylvana is not part of the pet trade, but it’s a reliable species to spot for anyone exploring wooded habitats. Its speed and alert behavior can make it a challenge to photograph, but it’s a fascinating species to observe up close.

13. Bronze jumping spider

Scientific name: Eris militaris

This widespread species can be found across much of the eastern and central U.S., often in meadows, gardens, and light woodland areas. It has a dark body with a soft bronze or copper sheen and is slightly smaller than many of the larger Phidippus species. The body is compact, and the legs are relatively short, giving it a sturdy appearance.

Eris militaris is not typically kept as a pet, but it is one of the more easily identified jumping spiders in outdoor settings. Its calm nature and approachable behavior make it a common subject for nature photographers and spider enthusiasts alike.

14. Gray wall jumper

Scientific name: Menemerus bivittatus

Originally native to the Old World, this species has become established in warm regions of the U.S., especially in the South. It prefers man-made structures and is often seen on concrete walls, fences, or under window ledges. The gray and white coloring helps it blend into urban environments, where it hunts small insects during the day.

Gray wall jumpers aren’t found in the pet trade, but it’s one of the few jumping spiders commonly spotted in residential areas. Its comfort around human structures and its energetic behavior make it a regular visitor to sunny patios and balconies.

15. Dimorphic jumping spider

Scientific name: Maevia inclemens

One of the more visually interesting species, this spider gets its name from the two very different forms that adult males can take—either with tufts on their heads and legs or with a smooth, shiny appearance. Females are more subdued in color but share the same compact, alert body shape. It’s found primarily in the eastern half of the U.S.

This spider’s unusual male dimorphism and expressive movements make it an interesting species to encounter. You’re most likely to see it on buildings, fences, or vegetation during the spring and summer months.

16. Peppered jumping spider

Scientific name: Pelegrina galathea

Covered in a mix of dark and light scales, the peppered jumping spider has a speckled appearance that gives it its name. It tends to favor grassy fields, meadows, and gardens, where it hunts among low vegetation. Its small size and muted colors make it easy to overlook, but it’s widespread across the eastern and central United States.

Pelegrina galathea is a true generalist, thriving in both natural and suburban settings. Though not flashy, it plays a useful role in controlling small insect populations and is a frequent find for those exploring weedy or overgrown spaces.

17. White-cheeked jumping spider

Scientific name: Pelegrina proterva

This species gets its name from the distinctive white patches on either side of its face. It has a stocky build and is often found in sunny, open habitats such as fields, prairies, and backyard gardens. The contrast between its dark body and white facial markings makes it stand out once spotted.

Although Pelegrina proterva is not well known outside of spider enthusiast circles, it’s common in much of the eastern U.S. Its confident, active behavior makes it fun to watch as it hunts or explores leaf surfaces and stems.

18. Hentz’s jumping spider

Scientific name: Hentzia palmarum

Widespread in the southeastern United States, this species prefers warm climates and is often found on low vegetation and shrubbery. It has a delicate build and may display subtle reddish or orange tones depending on lighting and sex. Unlike larger jumpers, it tends to stay closer to plant surfaces rather than open walls or fences.

It’s possible you’ve seen a Hentz’s jumping spider if you’ve spent time in a warm, overgrown backyard or poked around low plants in the Southeast. Its quick movements and sleek shape give it a smooth, graceful vibe as it hunts among the leaves.

19. White-jawed jumping spider

Scientific name: Hentzia mitrata

Often confused with its close relatives, this species stands out thanks to the pale, contrasting markings around its mouthparts. It tends to prefer leafy vegetation and garden plants, where it uses stealth and quick reflexes to ambush tiny insect prey. Its compact body and earthy tones provide excellent camouflage.

Though small, the white-jawed jumping spider is a highly effective hunter and a helpful garden companion. It’s not a spider you’ll find in the pet trade, but it’s a common resident in southern and eastern habitats during the warmer months.

20. Habronattus coecatus

This small, ground-dwelling spider is part of the colorful and behaviorally fascinating Habronattus genus. Males are known for their vibrant facial markings and complex courtship dances, which involve leg waves and rhythmic movements designed to impress females. It’s most often found in dry, open habitats like grasslands or sandy soils.

Although Habronattus coecatus isn’t commonly kept as a pet, it’s a favorite among researchers and nature photographers. Its bold colors and quirky behavior make it one of the more entertaining spiders to observe in the wild.

21. Habronattus pyrrithrix

Sporting a bright red face and green legs, this species is another visually striking member of the Habronattus group. Males are particularly vibrant, and like others in the genus, they perform elaborate dances to attract females. It’s native to the southwestern U.S., where it inhabits dry, sunny areas with plenty of ground cover.

Habronattus pyrrithrix is not kept in captivity, but its bold appearance and unique mating displays make it a standout species among North American jumping spiders. It’s often seen on rocks or low vegetation during daylight hours.

22. Habronattus viridipes

With vivid green front legs and a dark body, this species is best known for its dynamic courtship displays. Males use their bright limbs in a sort of visual performance to attract mates, often waving and arching their legs in open areas where females can see them. It’s found throughout parts of the eastern and central U.S.

Habronattus viridipes is not part of the pet trade, but it’s one of the more visually engaging species in the wild. Observing its display behavior is a treat for anyone interested in spider behavior and signaling.

23. Ant-mimic jumping spider

Scientific name: Myrmarachne formicaria

This unique species mimics ants in both appearance and movement, using its long front legs to imitate antennae. It’s an introduced species in North America, mostly found in the northeastern U.S. The mimicry provides protection from predators that might otherwise avoid ants due to their aggression or chemical defenses.

The ant-mimic jumping spider may not be a suitable pet, but it’s a fascinating species to find in the wild. Its ant-like shape and behavior set it apart from all other jumping spiders on this list.

24. Metacyrba taeniola

Recognized by the tufts of hair on its head and legs, this spider has a slightly flattened shape and prefers tree trunks, fence posts, and shaded walls. Its coloring is generally dark with subtle striping, and it tends to sit motionless before launching quick jumps to capture prey.

Tufted jumping spiders are not well known outside of arachnologist circles, but they’re found across much of the U.S. and are fairly adaptable to both natural and human-altered environments.

25. Poultonella alboimmaculata

One of the lesser-known North American species, this spider is found primarily in sandy habitats and pine barrens. Its body is compact and covered in fine hairs, with muted brown coloration that blends into dry ground and debris. Unlike the more flashy or active species, this one tends to be slow-moving and secretive.

Poultonella alboimmaculata is rarely observed and not involved in the pet trade. It represents the quieter, less conspicuous side of the jumping spider family, offering a reminder of how much diversity exists even among the most overlooked species.