Feed Jumping Spiders Every Two to Five Days Depending on Their Life Stage
You should feed a jumping spider based on its life stage and abdomen size. Slings require food daily or every other day. Juveniles typically eat every two to three days, while mature adults require feeding every three to five days. Always monitor the spider's abdomen to ensure it is sufficiently hydrated and nourished.
Feeding Frequency by Life Stage
- Spiderlings (Slings): These young spiders need high energy for rapid growth and development. Provide small prey insects every 1 to 2 days.
- Juveniles: As spiders grow, their metabolism slows slightly. Offer appropriately sized food every 2 to 3 days.
- Adults: Fully grown spiders maintain their weight easily and can survive longer between meals. Feed them every 3 to 5 days.
Abdomen Size as a Visual Guide
The most reliable way to determine if a spider is hungry is by observing its abdomen. Use these visual cues to adjust your feeding schedule:
- Hungry: The abdomen looks thin, small, or slightly pointed. Feed the spider immediately to restore its energy levels.
- Well-Fed: The abdomen is rounded and proportional to the rest of the body. Continue the current feeding schedule.
- Overfed: The abdomen appears very round and bulbous. Stop feeding for several days to prevent potential injuries from falls or digestive stress.
Comparing Feeder Insect Options
| Insect Type | Nutritional Value | Movement Level |
|---|---|---|
| Fruit Flies | High for Slings | High Activity |
| Mealworms | High Fat Content | Low Activity |
| Crickets | Balanced Protein | Moderate Activity |
Safe Feeding Practices
- Remove Uneaten Prey: Take out any live insects that have not been consumed within 24 hours to prevent them from biting the spider.
- Monitor Molting: Stop offering food if the spider hides in a thick silk hammock. Spiders do not eat during the molting process.
- Provide Hydration: Use a fine mister to spray one side of the enclosure daily. The spider will drink small water droplets from the surface.