What Kind of Spider Is Furry and Black With White Spots on Its Back and White Stripes on Its Legs?

The white-spotted, bold or daring jumping spider is fuzzy and black with white spots on its back and white stripes on its legs. Occasionally the spots on its back, known as the abdomen, are orange, reddish or gray. Usually the spot in the center of the abdomen is largest.

The bodies of female white-spotted jumping spiders are 1/4- to 3/4-inch long, while males are usually about 1/2 inch in length. The spiders live on plants in open areas, as well as on trees, fence posts or the siding of buildings. Although their walking appears erratic, these jumping spiders leap long distances to catch their prey. Typical foods are bugs, caterpillars and spiders.