Seven new species of the dazzling Peacock Spider have been discovered in the regions of South and Western Australia. Found earlier this year, they are now seven of forty-eight variations of the Jumping Spider.

Maratus, being the scientific family name, mimic the courting habits of the Peacock Bird, displaying vibrant colours in a spectacular dance. If unimpressed, the females have been known to eat the male.

Sydney-based Australian scientist Jurgen Otto has been researching these spiders for over 10 years and remarks, “They behave very differently to how people think a spider does … they behave more like cats and dogs, moving around, perceiving and reacting to their environment”.

Footage of their almost hypnotic mating process has gone viral with over 5 million views, as well as being included in Sir. David Attenborough’s documentary series, “Life”.