Jumping Spider (Evarcha falcata)
🕷️ Overview
Evarcha falcata is a striking species of jumping spider in the family Salticidae, known for its excellent vision, active hunting style, and sexual dimorphism (distinct differences in appearance between males and females). It’s found across much of Europe and parts of Asia, often in grasslands, heaths, and woodland edges.
🔍 Identification
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Males: ~5–6 mmFemales: ~6–8 mm |
| Coloration | Males: dark brown/black with iridescent greenish cheliceraeFemales: lighter, brown or greyish with mottled patterning |
| Eyes | Prominent forward-facing central eyes typical of jumping spiders |
| Body | Compact, with a wide cephalothorax and shorter abdomen |
| Legs | Males have more robust and contrasting forelegs |
Males are more visually striking and often confused with Evarcha arcuata, another similar jumping spider.
🌿 Habitat
- Found in:
- Grasslands
- Shrubs and low vegetation
- Sunny forest edges
- Occasionally gardens or parks
- Typically seen from late spring to early autumn.
- Prefers sunlit open areas where it can hunt visually.
🐜 Behavior & Diet
- Active hunters: Do not use webs to catch prey.
- Feed on small insects, especially flies, aphids, and other spiders.
- Uses stealthy stalking followed by a sudden, precise jump to pounce on prey.
- Anchors itself with a silk dragline when jumping.
💘 Courtship
- Males perform visual displays using their front legs and body postures to attract females.
- Jumping spiders rely heavily on vision during mate selection.
🔁 Life Cycle
- Egg sac laid in a sheltered spot, guarded by the female.
- Spiderlings disperse shortly after hatching.
- Matures through a series of molts; one generation per year is typical in temperate zones.
🧠 Interesting Facts
- Evarcha species, including E. falcata, have shown complex visual recognition and can learn to distinguish prey from background.
- Jumping spiders can often turn their heads slightly to follow movement — rare among spiders.
- Not dangerous to humans and are actually beneficial garden predators.
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