Dancing Peacock Spiders

Maratus volans is a species in the jumping spider family (Salticidae), belonging to the genus Maratus (peacock spiders).

The red, blue and black colored males have flap-like extensions of the abdomen with white hairs that can be folded down. They are used for display during mating: the male raises his abdomen, then expands and raises the flaps so that the abdomen forms a white-fringed, circular field of color.

The species, and indeed the whole genus Maratus have been compared to peacocks in this respect. The third pair of legs is also raised for display, showing a brush of black hairs and white tips. These legs are also used in a clapping motion to further attract a female's attention.

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Credit: Jurgen Otto

While approaching the female, the male vibrates his abdomen while waving raised legs and tail, and dances from side to side.

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Each species can be uniquely identified by their mating dance moves: The male waves part of its often colorful body as the female watches intently.

If the male continues his dance when the female is not interested, she attempts to attack, kill, and feed on him; she may also do this after mating (sexual cannibalism).

The male may escape by jumping.

Oh god. If i saw one of these in my home, i'd legit have a heart attack

*clicks away fast* shudder

Nice colours but hell nah ain't nobody got time for dat