Regal jumping spider (Phidippus regius)
Photo: Thomas Shahan / CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Arachnid · Jumping spider

Regal jumping spider care guide

Phidippus regius

Beginner

The regal jumping spider is a beginner-level jumping spider from SE USA, Bahamas, Cuba. Adults reach Body 1.5–2.2 cm and live 1–3 years in captivity. Small vertical enclosure with good ventilation. Keep alone.

  • Enclosure 20 × 20 × 30 cm
  • Temp 22–28°C
  • Humidity 50–70%

How much does a regal jumping spider cost in Canada?

Animal$30–80Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$120–240Enclosure $30–60 · equipment $60–150 · bioactive supplies ≈ $30
Yearly upkeep$30–60Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$180–380All prices CAD, estimates

Regal jumping spider quick facts

Skill level
Beginner
Adult size
Body 1.5–2.2 cm
Lifespan
1–3 years
Activity
Diurnal
Native range
SE USA, Bahamas, Cuba
Minimum enclosure
20 × 20 × 30 cm (8 × 8 × 12 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
22–28°C
Humidity
50–70%
UVB
Recommended
Diet
Insectivore – fruit flies, house flies, small crickets
Bioactive style
Arboreal insect

Regal 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.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. 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: 50–70%. UVB: Recommended.

What does a regal 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 regal jumping spider bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (20 × 20 × 30 cm).

Regal jumping spider FAQ

Is the regal jumping spider good for beginners?

Yes – the regal 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 regal 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 regal jumping spider cost in Canada?

Typically $30–80 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 regal jumping spider need?

Temperature: 22–28°C. Humidity: 50–70%.

What does a regal 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.

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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.