Common Housefly Catcher Plexippus petersi

This tiny Asian jumping spider has become a global traveler, spreading from its native Asian range to Africa and Pacific islands in what appears to be an unintentional but wildly successful invasion. Despite being less than a centimeter in length, this tropical flycatcher is a skilled hunter of flying insects, with the visual acuity and reflexes typical of jumping spiders. The nickname small zebra jumper hints at striped patterning.

As a commensal species that thrives near human habitation, it's become one of those useful little shadows in homes across multiple continents. Jumping spiders have a charm about them that other spiders lack — they're curious, seem almost intelligent, and show personality.