Napoleon Spider Synema globosum

Photo of Napoleon Spider (Synema globosum)

(c) Samuel GUIRAUDOU, some rights reserved (CC BY)

OrderSpiders (Araneae)
FamilyCrab Spiders (Thomisidae)
GenusSynema (Synema)

This tiny jumper sports markings on its abdomen that supposedly resemble a silhouette of Napoleon wearing his iconic bicorne hat—hence the clever name. Whether you see the resemblance or not, it's a charming piece of spider folklore that has delighted arachnologists for generations. With excellent vision and remarkable agility, this jumping spider hunts with impressive precision, stalking and pouncing on prey across leaves and flowers with the focus of a miniature bounty hunter. Its hunting prowess and whimsical name make it a favorite among spider enthusiasts.

Think you can identify this one in the wild?

Play Now