Have eight eyes. Two large eyes and two small eyes on its face, and two similar pairs on top of its head. May be very colorful. Males might have bands or stripes of vibrant jewel tones on their bodies. Have fangs. Can appear to be furry or fuzzy.

It is important to know that jumping spiders do not build webs like many other species of spiders. The jumping spider tracks its prey on foot. Look for them jumping or walking in the grass, or hopping from plant to plant.

Use a medium length stick as your beater. Carry it with you as you hunt for spiders. Use the stick to whack vegetation. For example, when you pass a clump of bushes, gently strike the plants. The vibration should cause any hidden spiders to jump out. Be careful not to hit too hard. You don’t want to harm any animals who are hiding.

Either glass or plastic vials will work. Just make sure they come with lids. A glass jar or plastic container will also work. Just make sure to wash and dry them thoroughly before hunting for spiders.

Use the lid of your jar to gently nudge the spider into the jar. You could also wear thick gloves as an extra layer of safety.

Make sure the lid is ventilated with small holes so that your spider gets adequate air flow. Jumping spiders don’t spin webs, but they do enjoy resting in little nests. Provide your spider with material to make a bed. Choose a small piece of cloth, or even a paper napkin. Keep the cage out of direct sunlight. You don’t want your spider to overheat.

Your spider does not need to eat every day. It will be fine if you give it an insect every 2-3 days. Spiders don’t need much water. Just mist the sides of the cage with a spray bottle of water every few days. Simply drop the insect into the cage. Your spider will pounce on it and eat.

You can still enjoy your pet. You can watch him jump around his cage. Some will also follow your finger if you gently trace it along the walls of the container. It seems like he may be playing, but it will help you keep him active, and know that he can still see and hunt. Occasionally, you can take your spider out of captivity. Set him on your desk and watch him jump. Just be careful not to lose him!

Try keeping a small notebook near your jumping spider’s cage. That way you’ll have it handy when you see it do something interesting.