Arachnid · Jumping spider
Cardinal jumping spider care guide
Phidippus cardinalis
The cardinal jumping spider is a beginner-level jumping spider from USA, Mexico. Adults reach Body 0.8–1.3 cm and live 1–2 years in captivity. Prefers slightly drier conditions than other Phidippus; mist once every couple of days.
- Enclosure 20 × 20 × 30 cm
- Temp 22–28°C
- Humidity 45–65%
How much does a cardinal jumping spider cost in Canada?
Cardinal jumping spider quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- Body 0.8–1.3 cm
- Lifespan
- 1–2 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- USA, Mexico
- Minimum enclosure
- 20 × 20 × 30 cm (8 × 8 × 12 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 22–28°C
- Humidity
- 45–65%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Insectivore – fruit flies, house flies, small crickets
- Bioactive style
- Arboreal insect
Cardinal jumping spider enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 20 × 20 × 30 cm (8 × 8 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a arboreal insect bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Premium Coconut Fiber3 cm
A thin, moisture-holding floor layer keeps humidity up. Leave at least twice the insect’s length of clear space below perches for moulting.
Temperature: 22–28°C. Humidity: 45–65%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a cardinal jumping spider eat?
Insectivore – fruit flies, house flies, small crickets. Adults: 1–2 flies or small crickets every 2–4 days; slings eat fruit flies every 1–2 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Curious and often tolerates gentle hand-walking, but it can jump suddenly; handle low over a surface.
Health watch: Dehydration and failed molts are the main risks; mist lightly every 1–2 days and never disturb a molting sac.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Mist lightly (species dependent) and check food plants are fresh.
Weekly
- Replace food plants; remove frass and old leaves.
Monthly
- Wipe mesh and check for mites.
Yearly
- Replace the floor layer between generations.
Recommended for a cardinal jumping spider bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (20 × 20 × 30 cm).
Cardinal jumping spider FAQ
Is the cardinal jumping spider good for beginners?
Yes – the cardinal jumping spider is a good choice for beginners. Curious and often tolerates gentle hand-walking, but it can jump suddenly; handle low over a surface.
What size enclosure does a cardinal jumping spider need?
At least 20 × 20 × 30 cm (about 8 × 8 × 12 inches, roughly 3 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a cardinal jumping spider cost in Canada?
Typically $30–70 CAD to buy, about $120–240 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $30–60 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a cardinal jumping spider need?
Temperature: 22–28°C. Humidity: 45–65%.
What does a cardinal jumping spider eat?
Insectivore – fruit flies, house flies, small crickets. Adults: 1–2 flies or small crickets every 2–4 days; slings eat fruit flies every 1–2 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.