AI Generated Image
The Jumping Spiders of TikTok
The New York Times • • science
Key Points:
- Lauren Taylor, a graphic designer in Reno, Nevada, breeds and sells pet jumping spiders, maintaining around 2,000 spiders in her home.
- Her business, Spider Stuff, has sold about 600 spiders this year, reflecting a surge in demand driven by the spiders' popularity on social media.
- Taylor raises the spiders in specially designed "spider condos" to prevent cannibalism and keeps 31 as pets, including a notable Canopy jumping spider named Harry.
- Jumping spiders, known for their tiny size and distinctive appearance, have become viral internet celebrities due to their engaging behaviors and close-up social media videos.
- Prices for jumping spiders range from $60 to $100 depending on the breed, and Taylor emphasizes the surprising bond that can form between humans and these spiders.
