Astia maculata
Golden-Tail Jumper Identification Australia
Small eastern Australian jumping spider currently accepted by the World Spider Catalog as Astia maculata, with the former Astia hariola name still common in Australian records and golden rear markings in clearer specimens.
Usually low riskGolden-tail jumpers are Australian salticids currently treated by the World Spider Catalog as Astia maculata, with Astia hariola retained in older Australian records and common names. The accepted range is Queensland and New South Wales. The golden-tail name is a useful starting clue, but colour varies and an ordinary photograph should be treated as a possible match rather than a firm species determination.
Quick identification
- Small compact jumping spider with large forward-facing eyes
- May show golden, yellow or warm brown markings toward the rear
- Alert stop-start movement and short jumps instead of a capture web
- Queensland or New South Wales location supports the comparison
What to check next
Check the forward-facing eyes and jumping movement before relying on the golden-tail name. Compare with garden jumping spiders, jovial jumping spiders and bronze Aussie jumpers; a close view of body pattern and local record is needed for species confidence.
When to seek medical help
This spider is not usually considered dangerous. Avoid handling it and seek medical advice for severe pain, allergic symptoms, infection signs, spreading symptoms or uncertainty after any bite.
Where it is usually seen
Vegetation, bark, shrubs, garden plants and woodland surfaces in eastern Australia, with records from Queensland and New South Wales.