Have you ever considered a spider as a pet? Perhaps not, but the story of Wilson, a jumping spider (Phidippus audax), might just change your mind. At Ækeir Brewing in Wiscasset, owned by Jeremy Meyers, Wilson has become an unexpected and utterly charming resident. This tiny eight-legged creature has not only captured the hearts of the brewery staff but also serves as a testament to the fascinating world of Pet Spiders.
Wilson’s journey began when a friend gifted Ækeir Brewing a lucky bamboo plant upon its opening. It wasn’t long before Jeremy noticed a minuscule jumping spider making its home within the plant’s leaves. What started as a casual observation soon turned into a daily fascination. Jeremy began sending weekly updates about Wilson, sharing anecdotes of his tiny companion’s daily life. Much like a beloved pet, Wilson’s presence brought a unique charm to the taproom environment.
Jumping spiders, like Wilson, are known for their intelligence, curiosity, and relatively small size, making them increasingly popular as pets for those seeking something a bit different. Unlike their larger, more intimidating relatives, jumping spiders are often described as adorable due to their large, expressive eyes and playful movements. They are active hunters, often seen exploring their surroundings with impressive agility and, as Wilson demonstrated, even catching flies! Providing a safe and undisturbed environment is key to their well-being, as highlighted by the sign placed near Wilson’s plant to protect him from accidental disruptions at the brewery. Observing Wilson taking a small drink of water and venturing to explore new areas of his surroundings further illustrates the simple yet captivating nature of these creatures.
Wilson’s story echoes a previous heartwarming experience of the content creator, who fondly remembers “Harry,” a jumping spider companion from their high school days. This personal connection underscores the universal appeal of these little arachnids and their ability to become cherished, albeit unconventional, pets. Wilson is now more than just a spider; he’s the unofficial taproom pet, proving that sometimes the most delightful companions come in the smallest, eight-legged packages.
