The zebra spider, Salticus scenicus, is a common jumping spider. Like other jumping spiders, it does not build a web. It uses its four pairs of large eyes to locate prey and its jumping ability to pounce and capture it. Zebra spiders are often noted for their awareness of humans. Upon noticing someone observing them, they can be seen raising their head, and usually change behavior (hence why salticus scenius, theatrical jumper).
Read more about Zebra Spider: Description, Distribution, Taxonomic History
Famous quotes containing the words zebra and/or spider:
“Apeneck Sweeney spreads his knees
Letting his arms hang down to laugh,
The zebra strips along his jaw
Swelling to maculate giraffe.”
—T.S. (Thomas Stearns)
“And now, dear little children, who may this story read,
To idle, silly, flattering words, I pray you ne’er give heed;
Unto an evil counselor close heart, and ear, and eye,
And take a lesson from this tale of the Spider and the Fly.”
—Mary Howitt (1799–1888)