Leaping spiders, venomous creatures the size of cats, dwell in dungeons and caves. Adorned with red markings on their agile legs and abdomen, these arachnids instill fear in those who cross their path. Their potent venom induces a gradual lethargy, weakening prey with each bite until they are rendered defenseless. Leaping spiders leverage their exceptional jumping abilities to ambush victims and, when hunting in packs, swiftly deploy a devastating dose of poison.
Driven by an insatiable hunger, leaping spiders leave behind only stripped bones, consuming every trace of organic matter from their victims. An eerie sight awaits those who stumble upon the aftermath of their relentless feasting—an abandoned heap of discarded weapons, armor, and gear, a grim reminder of the spiders’ lethal efficiency. These cunning predators also display an uncanny knack for strategic positioning, lurking near traps, secret doors, and treasure chests. They exploit the vulnerabilities of their surroundings, capitalizing on the wounds and distractions of unsuspecting intruders.
In the wake of a leaping spider’s defeat, a peculiar revelation awaits. Its demise often signals the presence of hidden secrets or treasures nearby. Experienced adventurers know that stumbling upon a leaping spider hints at the potential existence of secret passages or undiscovered mysteries. The fallen spider becomes a tantalizing clue to treasures and secrets.
Leaping Spider
Tiny Beast, Typically Unaligned
Armor Class 11
Hit Points 12 (5d4)
Speed 20 ft., climb 20 ft.
| STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 (-2) | 13 (+1) | 10 (+0) | 2 (-4) | 15 (+2) | 4 (-3) |
Skills Perception +4, Stealth +3
Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 14
Languages —
Challenge 1/4 (50 XP)
Proficiency Bonus +2
Spider Climb.The spider can climb difficult surfaces, including upside down on ceilings, without needing to make an ability check.
Actions
Lethargic Bite. Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage, and the target must succeed on a DC 11 Constitution saving throw or be afflicted with lethargy for 1 minute. A creature can be afflicted with lethargy multiple times, adding additional effects and refreshing the duration:
- First Application. The creature’s speed is reduced by 10 feet.
- Second Application. The creature can’t take reactions.
- Third Application. On its turn, the creature can use either an action or a bonus action, not both.
A spell or effect that removes the poisoned condition from the creature ends the lethargy effect on it.
Bonus Actions
Leap (Recharge 5–6).The spider jumps up to 20 feet to an unoccupied space it can see, without provoking opportunity attacks.
Downloads
Further Reading
Add some leaping spiders to the Fey Hollow dungeon in the spider cave!
Imagery created with Midjourney.
