Tan Jumping Spider (Platycryptus undatus)
I love these curious little jumping spiders! I’ve painted many different types in the past, but this is new to the collection. The Tan Jumper is one of the more common species found in Michigan. Globally they have a huge distribution from Canada all the way through Central America. Often, they cling to vertical surfaces while hunting. If your hands are free of any insect repellant, it’s fun to handle them gently. They will often look you right in the eye, or camera lens, with a curious look about them.
Sorry, I have to go science nerd for a minute: Their Latin name is Platycryptus undatus; platy means flat, cryptus is hidden, and undatus means wavy edged. So it is the “wavy edged, flat, hiding jumping spider,” which really is a terrific name. They definitely are flattened dorsoventrally, which helps them hide under bark. Undatus refers to the broken wavy pattern on their backs, which makes them all but invisible on tree bark, rocks and lichens. They do show up pretty darn well on vinyl siding though! That’s often where I find them for photographs.
Around the house I often call these mustache jumpers because of the spectacular pedipalps that are often held in front like a big, brushy mustache.
Flowers aren’t really the typical hunting place for these guys, but it makes for a striking image. I know lot of people HATE spiders, mostly out of fear. Therefore, I often put them on something that might be appreciated by those who are spider-averse, hoping to counter their phobic tendencies.
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