Jumping Spider – Phidippus clarus

This wily little hunter was out and about in early spring of northern Illinois. Her very acute binocular forward vision gives her the ability to spot prey far away – and then use the “wait and pounce” or “jump on and subdue” method of capture. They are always dragging a silken line behind them – which they use to return to their previous spot should a jump go awry. I have seen them capture insects flying by in mid-air – then instantly pull themselves back to the object from which they jumped! It’s amazing. I love watching these charming creatures.

Unfortunately, these are the best pictures I have of this species, taken way back in 2005 with a Kodak point-and-shoot camera.

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