Jumping Spider in Defense Mode!

Oh my! This is 1/4" of total tough-guy!! I originally captured this cutie pie as he belayed down a web strand in our kitchen, and when I put him on our porch railing, he was understandably afraid. This is a defense posture, designed to make him look huge and menacing! However, all I could do was coo at how adorable he was while I took pictures and hoped he would realize that I pose no threat to him! :) Eventually he relaxed and assumed the normal behavior of a jumping spider: inquisitive, fearless, and stealthy. These are awesome spiders!!!

I found a really nice page about another behavior of jumping spiders, the mating ritual, complete with a hilarious video which will have you rolling in the aisles! Be sure to check it out!
Dirty Dancing, A Gallant Spider Goes All The Way