Pint-sized Peacock

Image copyright Jurgen Otto, used with permission

Prepare to be charmed, people. And if you're a lady, prepared to be wooed. He may not look like much, especially when perched upon your fingertip, but what he lacks in size he makes up for in style.

Say hello to the peacock spider (Maratus volans), UgO's latest inductee from Down Under. You'll find him festooned with all sorts of colors--colors the ladies can't get enough of. Here he is, courting one such lucky lady.












This is what he looks like in his full courtship posture. Note the third set of legs held high with pride. His abdomen is also looming, complete with twin, colorful flaps fully deployed.




















But you haven't seen the best of it. Not only does he flash his colors peacock-style, but he also does an irresistible dance, capering from side to side and shaking those extended legs. What lady could possibly say no?
























Here's what his wee spider bum looks like from below when the flaps are extended. You looked, didn't you? You cheeky bum-looker.



























I tell you what, if this spider were hamster-sized and good with children, it might be the most perfect pet ever.

Thanks for the peacock spider, Jade. My life just got a bit more colorful.

NOTE: All photos used with permission from Jurgen Otto. He can be contacted by email: jurgenotto at optusnet dot com dot au