Zebra jumping spider (Salticus scenicus)
Photo: Kaldari / CC0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Arachnid · Jumping spider

Zebra jumping spider care guide

Salticus scenicus

Beginner

The zebra jumping spider is a beginner-level jumping spider from Holarctic including Canada. Adults reach Body 0.5–0.7 cm and live 1 year in captivity. Very small; use a small enclosure so it can find prey easily.

  • Enclosure 15 × 15 × 20 cm
  • Temp 20–26°C
  • Humidity 40–60%

How much does a zebra jumping spider cost in Canada?

Animal$10–30Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$100–190Enclosure $30–50 · equipment $40–100 · bioactive supplies ≈ $30
Yearly upkeep$20–40Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$130–260All prices CAD, estimates

Zebra jumping spider quick facts

Skill level
Beginner
Adult size
Body 0.5–0.7 cm
Lifespan
1 year
Activity
Diurnal
Native range
Holarctic including Canada
Minimum enclosure
15 × 15 × 20 cm (6 × 6 × 8 in, ≈ 1 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
20–26°C
Humidity
40–60%
UVB
Recommended
Diet
Insectivore – fruit flies, springtails, small flies
Bioactive style
Arboreal insect

Zebra jumping spider enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 15 × 15 × 20 cm (6 × 6 × 8 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a arboreal insect bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Premium Coconut Fiber2 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: 20–26°C. Humidity: 40–60%. UVB: Recommended.

What does a zebra jumping spider eat?

Insectivore – fruit flies, springtails, small flies. Adults: a few fruit flies every 2–3 days.

Handling, temperament & health

Tiny and quick; observe rather than handle.

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 zebra jumping spider bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (15 × 15 × 20 cm).

Zebra jumping spider FAQ

Is the zebra jumping spider good for beginners?

Yes – the zebra jumping spider is a good choice for beginners. Tiny and quick; observe rather than handle.

What size enclosure does a zebra jumping spider need?

At least 15 × 15 × 20 cm (about 6 × 6 × 8 inches, roughly 1 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a zebra jumping spider cost in Canada?

Typically $10–30 CAD to buy, about $100–190 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $20–40 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a zebra jumping spider need?

Temperature: 20–26°C. Humidity: 40–60%.

What does a zebra jumping spider eat?

Insectivore – fruit flies, springtails, small flies. Adults: a few fruit flies every 2–3 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.