Your first winter with phidippus regius
The great Canadian cold is upon us, and we must act fast to preserve the lives of our spiders. This is especially crucial for first-time owners of Phidippus regius. Below, we have outlined some valuable recommendations for ensuring your spiders stay warm and healthy during these cold months. Please take your spider’s care requirements seriously, as the cold can be dangerous.
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Essential Equipment Breakdown
To set up a reliable and effective enclosure for your spiders during the cold months, we recommend the following items:
1. Greenhouse for Temperature and Humidity Control
- Äkerbär Greenhouse from Ikea
- Price: $45 CAD (includes taxes, local pickup fee)
- Shipping: Additional $20 CAD if not picked up locally.
- Description: This compact and aesthetically pleasing greenhouse is ideal for maintaining a stable environment for your spiders. It allows for easy humidity and temperature control in a small-scale setup.
2. Heating
- VIVOSUN 10"x20.75" Seedling Heat Mat and Digital Thermostat Combo Set
- Price: $40 CAD (including shipping)
- Description: This heat mat helps maintain a consistent and warm environment for your spiders, promoting humidity through water evaporation and preventing temperature drops inside the greenhouse.
3. Lighting
- Aokrean Grow Lights for Indoor Plants
- Price: Under $40 CAD (including shipping)
- Description: These full-spectrum grow lights come with adjustable height and brightness settings. They offer the optimal lighting conditions for spiders, promoting their natural behaviors while also supporting any plants you may include in the greenhouse for added enrichment.
4. Humidity Monitoring
- Hygrometer (Multiple affordable options available online or in stores)
https://arthropods.ca/products/hydrometer - Price: Approximately $10-20 CAD
- Description: A hygrometer is essential to monitor the humidity levels within the greenhouse. Maintaining humidity between 65-85% is critical for Phidippus regius during colder months. Ensure it’s placed near the enclosure for accurate readings.
5. Humidity Control
- Small Atomizer (can be found in local stores or online)
- Price: Approximately $5-15 CAD
- Description: You’ll need to mist the greenhouse multiple times a day, especially if room humidity drops. A small atomizer helps you maintain the desired humidity level efficiently.
- Optional Small Humidifier
- Price: $40-70 CAD (optional, only for automated control)
- Description: If you want to automate humidity control, you can add a small humidifier inside the greenhouse. However, it’s not necessary if you regularly mist with an atomizer.
Setup Instructions
- Place the Greenhouse in a well-ventilated area of your home, preferably away from direct cold drafts. The Äkerbär greenhouse allows for a controlled environment that retains heat and humidity effectively.
- Install the VIVOSUN Seedling Mat inside the greenhouse and connect the thermostat to maintain a consistent temperature between 77-86°F. The heat mat will keep your spider's environment warm, promoting activity and preventing cold stress.
- Position the Aokrean Grow Lights above the enclosures within the greenhouse. Adjust the brightness / height as needed to mimic natural daylight, which will help support your spider’s circadian rhythm and natural behaviors.
- Monitor humidity with the hygrometer, and mist the inside of the greenhouse as needed. Aim to keep humidity levels between 65-85%. If you choose to use a humidifier, set it to automatically maintain this range.
- Ensure proper airflow by leaving the greenhouse door slightly open. This will allow for air circulation, preventing any stagnation while still maintaining the necessary humidity and temperature levels.
- Optional: Include tropical plants inside the greenhouse to freshen the air and provide extra enrichment for your spiders. Tropical plants thrive in similar humidity conditions and create a natural, engaging habitat.
Total Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Äkerbär Greenhouse from Ikea | $45 (tax included) |
| VIVOSUN Seedling Heat Mat & Thermostat | $40 |
| Aokrean Grow Lights (2-Pack) | $40 |
| Hygrometer | $10-20 |
| Small Atomizer | $10-15 |
| Optional: Small Humidifier | $40-70 (optional) |
| Shipping Costs (if applicable) | $20 for Greenhouse |
| Total (with minimum essentials) | ~$145 - 160 CAD |
By following these recommendations, your Phidippus regius will have the best chance of thriving during the colder months. These investments ensure a stable and enriched environment, helping to regulate temperature, humidity, and lighting to mimic their natural habitats.