HABITAT-FIRST
HUSBANDRY

Habitat-first husbandry is making sure the care you give to your pet uses elements of their natural habitat before adding in the fun stuff. For instance, pet hamsters were sold with a bag of hamster food, small wire cages with shallow bases, the stereotypical hamster wheel, and occasionally adding in brightly coloured tubes. These were cheap, easy to clean, fun to look at, and a hamster could survive in them. But over time, keepers realised that a hamster could thrive by adding in elements of their natural habitat.

Larger, deep-based enclosures, with multiple levels let the hamster burrow and explore. Sand baths kept their skin and fur healthy, and undyed wood branches that were great for gnawing and climbing. Food became a mix of dry food, fresh fruit and veg plus insect protein, much closer to their natural diet which kept them healthy. But the fun elements, those a keeper probably enjoys more than the pet, were still kept such as tunnels, cute houses and hides, and of course the wheel.

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This is something I want to help with when it comes to jumping spiders. Social media likes of cute dollhouse enclosures, and AI based misinformation has led to a rise in tiny, plastic filled enclosures that lack even basic natural elements. Yes they are absolutely stunning, creative, and made by passionate and talented people, but with just a tweak here and there, they can combine nature and creativity.

This is why I'll be exploring the jumping spiders natural habitat and showing you how to use that knowledge to improve your spider care. I'll be sharing themed, fun enclosures that focus on habitat basics to inspire you, tips and tricks for healthy well fed spiders, walkthrough guides and fabulous décor kits from myself and popular small businesses.