Portia fimbriata, commonly known as fringed jumping spiders, have gained a reputation as the most intelligent spiders in the world due to their exceptional hunting abilities.

Despite being significantly smaller in size compared to their prey, Portia spiders have evolved to be incredibly smart and strategic in order to capture other spider species. Their intelligence is so remarkable that they have even developed specific hunting strategies for different types of spiders.

These extraordinary creatures can be found in various regions across Africa, Asia, and Australia, where they showcase their advanced cognitive capabilities both in research projects and in the wild.

In a recent article published in The Atlantic in 2021, arachnologist Fiona Cross from the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand, emphasized that the size of an animal’s brain is not the sole determinant of its intelligence. Cross stated, “It’s not so much the size of the brain that matters, but what the animal can do with what it’s got.”

Despite their brains being incredibly small and being able to fit on the head of a pin, Portia spiders possess remarkable cognitive abilities that would be considered signs of intelligence if exhibited by animals with larger brains, such as dogs or even human toddlers.

Various experiments have been conducted to study the cognitive abilities of Portia spiders, and the results have been astonishing. These arachnids have displayed the ability to engage in mind games, make plans, count, assess risks, and even experience surprise.

Their cognitive skills are akin to having superpowers, further complemented by their exceptional eyesight and extraordinary jumping abilities. In fact, they can leap distances up to 50 times their own body length, a feat that leaves many in awe of their physical prowess.

To witness the incredible intelligence and hunting techniques of Portia spiders, one can refer to a captivating BBC clip from episode three of The Hunt. In this episode, the renowned naturalist and narrator Sir David Attenborough showcases the remarkable skills of these tiny predators.

As viewers watch, they’ll be amazed by how Portia spiders strategically plan their movements, deceive their prey, and execute precise attacks. It is truly a fascinating experience to witness the prowess of these intelligent creatures in action.