Fauna
Arachnid

Tan Jumping Spider

Platycryptus undatus

Also known as Familiar Jumping Spider

Tan jumping spiders are adept web-free hunters named for the wavy tan and brown chevron patterns running down their flattened bodies. They navigate vertical tree bark and wooden structures with sudden, precise leaps, relying on four large forward-facing eyes to locate prey and gauge distance. Remarkably curious toward observers, these small arachnids often track movement overhead and pivot to face nearby humans directly.

ArachnidDiurnalCryptic
Tan Jumping Spider reference1 / 7
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Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyFlies, Moths, Mosquitoes
Predators
  • Mud dauber wasps
  • Birds
  • Lizards
ThreatsPesticide spraying, habitat degradation, insectivorous predators
HabitatsDeciduous forests, tree trunks, wooden fences, building exteriors
Life span1–2 years
Classification
  1. OrderAraneae
  2. FamilySalticidae
  3. GenusPlatycryptus
  4. SpeciesPlatycryptus undatus
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
  • Observe eye contact: Offer a hand nearby and watch the spider pivot its body to inspect you with its central eyes.
  • Scan sunny wood: Search tree trunks, boardwalk railing, and wooden fences where camouflage blends with bark.
  • Approach slowly: Move smoothly without casting sudden shadows to keep the spider calm while observing.
Related species
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