Platycryptus undatus (De Geer, 1778) - Familiar Jumper

Typically Hentz's accounts are short and to the point with the emphasis on morphology. His Attus familiaris description is an exception. Hentz begins his section on Observations with the following: This very common spider, almost domesticated in our houses, by its habits, deserves a longer notice than the others. Hentz's narrative, when present, gives life to his subject. Here is his description of the stalking motion of the spider. Gradually, as it draws near to the unsuspecting victim, its motions become more composed, until, when very near, its movements are entirely imperceptible to the closest observation, and, indeed, it would appear perfectly motionless, were it not for the fact that it gradually draws nearer to the insect. (p.56-57) The life histories of many jumpers remain largely unknown and offer many opportunities for the dedicated naturalist. Hentz, 1975

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