Fauna
Arachnid

California Flattened Jumping Spider

Platycryptus californicus

Also known as California Flattened Jumper, Flattened Jumping Spider

California flattened jumping spiders are agile daylight hunters recognized by their dorsoventrally flattened bodies and mottled gray-brown patterning that blends seamlessly into tree bark. Instead of weaving capture webs, these curious arachnids stalk prey with exceptional eyesight before pouncing using hydraulic leg pressure. They secure a fine silk safety anchor line before every leap to prevent falls while navigating vertical surfaces.

DiurnalHunterFlattened Body
California Flattened Jumping Spider reference1 / 7
no rights reserved, uploaded by Robbie Hannawacker · cc0
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyFlies, Moths, Leafhoppers
Predators
  • Lizards
  • Birds
  • Spider wasps
ThreatsPesticide application, severe habitat loss, clear-cutting
HabitatsOak woodlands, pine forests, wooden fences, exterior building walls
Life span1–2 years
Classification
  1. OrderAraneae
  2. FamilySalticidae
  3. GenusPlatycryptus
  4. SpeciesPlatycryptus californicus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Observation: Move slowly when approaching, as their large central eyes easily detect fast motion.
  • Photography: Use macro settings and natural lighting while letting the spider move freely across wood.
  • Handling: Allow the spider to walk voluntarily onto a finger rather than trapping or pinching it.
Related species
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?

Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.

Checking your Fauna account…