Salticus scenicus

Description

The female has a black abdomen with white stripes whereas the male has a brown abdomen with white stripes. However the patterning is variable and records are best confirmed by examination of genital structures. Legs mottled yellow brown with indistinct annulation at the joints. Usually synanthropic (around human habitation). 

Similar Species

Salticus cingulatus is very similar but it usually has more white hairs giving it an overall paler look. S. zebraneus has fewer white hairs and appears darker.

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Identification of this species  "Requires examination at high magnification in good lighting, typically examination of the genitalia." Bee, L., Oxford, G., & Smith, H. (2020). Britain's Spiders: A Field Guide. Second Edition. Princeton University Press.

Habitat

It is usually seen on sunny days running across walls and fences close to habitation.

When to see it

Males mostly in spring and summer, females can be found year round.

Life History

They have two large eyes at the front of the head and hunt cat-like for prey, eating anything up to their own size.

UK Status

Widespread across Britain, Salticus scenicus is the most common of the British zebra spiders.

VC55 Status

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Further Information

3603 British records to Jan 2013

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2020+ | 2015-2019 | pre-2015

UK Map

Species profile

Species group:
Spiders
Kingdom:
Animalia
Order:
Araneae
Family:
Salticidae
Records on NatureSpot:
193
First record:
01/06/2007 (Nicholls, David)
Last record:
01/04/2024 (Harding, Ian)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

10km squares with records

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