Photo by Timothy Dykes on Unsplash.
Official State Spider of New Hampshire
Thanks to the efforts of Tara Happy and her third grade class at Hollis Primary School, New Hampshire adopted the daring jumping spider (Phidippus audax) as the official state spider in June, 2021. The class created a project out of researching, choosing, and lobbying the New Hampshire government to adopt a state spider. Students researched various spiders before deciding on the daring jumping spider.
What is a Daring Jumping Spider?
The daring jumping spider (Phidippus audax) is a common jumping spider found in North America. It is often referred to as the "bold jumping spider" or "bold jumper". They are typically black with a pattern of spots and stripes on their legs and abdomen. The chelicerae, or mouthparts, are a bright, metallic green or blue. These spiders are common in fields and grasslands and can frequently be found in backyards and gardens.
The daring jumping spider will hunt without a web and can use it's spider silk as a tether when jumping for its prey.
Are these spiders dangerous?
These spiders are not considered dangerous to humans. They do have fangs and produce venom but their venom is not a medical threat and may only cause a stinging sensation. They are more likely to run away from humans than attack. If threatened, they will bite to defend themselves but their bite is not poisonous.
Can I keep a Daring Jumping Spider as a pet?
Yes, these spiders are some of the most friendly and intelligent spiders. They are small so they don't require a huge tank. They only need to be fed every 2-3 days and will eat crickets, moths, house flies, and mosquitoes