5 Reasons Why Jumping Spiders Are Not ‘Pets’

We may only have two eyes instead of eight, but we can still see through a cruel social media fad from a mile away. If you come across videos of “pet” jumping spiders on TikTok, don’t hit “share.” These complex, sensitive animals belong in their natural habitats—not in a glass prison.

Here’s why jumping spiders are not “pets.”

1. They don’t like to be handled.  

Jumping spiders are generally solitary animals who prefer to be left alone. In nature, they steer clear of humans and other larger animals, and if they feel threatened, they’ll jump or scurry away to safety. Trying to handle them can seriously stress them out—and in some cases, even hurt them. If they can’t escape, they might bite out of fear—not aggression—which also puts children at risk if they try to pick them up or play with them.

2. They are highly active.  

In their natural habitats, jumping spiders spend their time climbing, jumping among branches and leaves, building secure hammocks, and using their keen senses to search for food. Because they are naturally arboreal—meaning they tend to stay above the ground, in trees and other plants—they suffer when they do not have enough space, vegetation, or climbing structures.

Additionally, jumping spiders are active hunters who rely on their sharp vision and agility to stalk and catch live prey, like flies and other small insects. Hunting isn’t just how they eat—it’s how they stay mentally and physically stimulated. Without the chance to engage in these natural behaviors, they can become stressed, inactive, and unhealthy.

3. They have specific needs.

A glass tank doesn’t come close to resembling a jumping spider’s natural habitat, and the average person doesn’t have the knowledge to provide the precise temperature, humidity, light, and environmental enrichment they need to thrive.

Additionally, jumping spiders molt multiple times throughout their lives, shedding their exoskeletons as they grow. This is a vulnerable and delicate process, and stress or improper conditions—like those in glass tanks—can cause complications or even death.

4. “Pet” jumping spiders come from seedy animal sellers.

Most jumping spiders sold as “pets” come from the exotic animal trade—a cruel and exploitative industry that sells living, feeling individuals as if they’re collectibles. Exotic animal sellers may breed animals in filthy, crowded conditions, or tear them from their natural homes—all to ship them off and sell them to anyone willing to pay. 

5. They are individuals—not props.

Jumping spiders are curious, intelligent animals who can learn from experience, solve problems, and even have a sense of numbers. Come courting season, male jumping spiders dance and “sing” to woo potential mates. Every arachnid is someone who does not want to be exploited for social media content or condemned to an unnatural life trapped in a glass box.

Jumping spiders can be found just about anywhere, thriving in all kinds of habitats—so if you want to admire these fascinating animals, simply pay attention to the world around you. You can peacefully observe jumping spiders in nature without disturbing them or tearing them from their homes. The bottom line: Keeping jumping spiders as “pets” denies them everything that is natural and important to them. Like all our fellow animals, they deserve respect and compassion.

Say “No” to the Cruel Pet Trade

With millions of homeless animals in the U.S. struggling to survive on the streets, and shelters overflowing with unwanted animals, there’s no excuse to buy an animal—ever. Purchasing an animal from a breeder or pet store props up a deadly industry and exacerbates the companion-animal overpopulation crisis.

But YOU can do something about it:

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