| Scientific name | Phidippus audax |
|---|---|
| Group | Spiders |
| Size | 6–15 mm (up to about 0.59 in) |
| Colors | Black and White |
| Legs | 8 legs |
| Wings | No (as usually seen) |
| Where found | Indoors, anywhere and Garden or plants |
| Most active | Spring, Summer and Fall |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Harmless |
How to identify it
The bold jumping spider is a small member of the spiders group. Eight legs, two body sections and silk-spinning organs at the rear. Check for these three features:
- Two very large, front-facing eyes
- Black body with a white or orange spot pattern
- Metallic green or blue fangs (chelicerae)
About this bug
A compact, fuzzy black spider with white spots and iridescent green mouthparts. It stalks prey with excellent eyesight and leaps several times its body length.
You'll usually find bold jumping spiders indoors and in gardens and on plants. They are most active in spring, summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
Jumping spiders are shy and harmless; a rare bite feels like a mild pinch.
Our rating: Harmless, meaning it poses no real threat to people, pets or property.
When you'll see bold jumping spiders
Bold Jumping Spiders are most active in spring, summer and fall. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.
Typical places to check: indoors, anywhere and garden or plants.
About spiders
The bold jumping spider is one of the spiders. Spiders have eight legs, two main body sections and no antennae. Almost all spiders have venom to subdue prey, but only a few have venom that matters to people. Many build webs, while others, such as wolf spiders and jumping spiders, hunt on foot.
Spiders go where their food is. A home with lots of spiders usually has plenty of other insects, so general pest control reduces spiders too.
Should you get rid of it?
No control is needed. Bold Jumping Spiders are not pests, and many help by eating other insects or pollinating plants. If one is indoors, move it outside with a cup and a sheet of paper.
Bugs that look similar
Size: Wolf Spiders are larger, reaching 35 mm, while bold jumping spiders top out around 15 mm.
Size: Bold Jumping Spiders are larger, reaching 15 mm, while black widow spiders top out around 13 mm.
Size: Bold Jumping Spiders are larger, reaching 15 mm, while goldenrod crab spiders top out around 10 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does a bold jumping spider look like?
Two very large, front-facing eyes. Adults measure 6–15 mm (up to about 0.59 in).
Does the bold jumping spider bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Jumping spiders are shy and harmless; a rare bite feels like a mild pinch.
Where do bold jumping spiders live?
Bold Jumping Spiders live indoors and in gardens and on plants.
When are bold jumping spiders most active?
Mostly in spring, summer and fall.