
On the lookout for love (Maratus courtship)
A wonderful time spent observing a courting jumping spider couple recently.
The female took herself to the top of this old flower stalk and proceeded to flirt in an indomitable fashion - because just beneath her, 30 cm away was a hopeful male. I fancy I saw all sorts of tempting and teasing behaviour from her. All she needed to complete the effect was a tiny fan fluttering in front of those eyes!
The male, fuelled by testosterone and obviously finding her thoroughly beguiling, moved ever closer whilst performing his repertoire of little vibrations and tics.
And then! Just like that, they both disappeared. This is the second time I've experienced such a frustrating scenario, but of course nature does not perform for our benefit.
Female 7 mm length
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