Jumping spiders, family Salticidae (from the Latin root for “to jump” or “to dance”), have the big eyes that endear even to the most ardent arachnophobes. Their often curious disposition and striking colors and patterns make them favorite arthropod subjects of many macro photographers.

A half-drowned jumping spider (male Platycryptus undatus) sits perfectly still. Notice the reflections of the forelegs and pedipalps in the eyes.

A Hentzia palmarum jumping spider poses on a finger.

The Bold Jumping Spider, Phidippus audax

Those glassy eyes and shiny green chelicerae make the bold jumper hard to look away from. The great vision and stored venom each respectively provide make it even harder for their prey to get away.

Phidippus audax jumping spider with blow fly prey.

Portrait of a male Hentzia palmarum jumping spider.

A male Hentzia palmarum jumping spider found on a rusty handrail.

A male Hentzia palmarum jumping spider found on a rusty handrail.

A view from behind: a pretty black and white, yellow-legged jumping spider takes a brief rest on a brushed metal flag post.

Black and white version of jumping spider looking into the light.

An ant mimicking juping spider hangs out over a leaf.

The curious gaze of a female jumping spider.

Portrait of a jumping spider.

The curious gaze of a jumping spider.

Portrait of a jumping spider. Shot with reversed 18-55mm Nikon kit lens (at 18 or 24mm) on extension tubes (~60mm). Uncropped.

A very hairy Phidippus audax jumping spider.

Caught! On camera and at the bottom of a bright yellow plant pot, this Phidippus audax jumping spider did not have much choice but to pose for a portrait.

This jumping spider looks like it couldn’t hurt a fly. But it can…and probably has!

The brilliant metallic green chelicerae helps put the “bold” in the Bold Jumping Spider, Phidippus audax.