Tarantulas can make fantastic pets for those who are looking for something a little different than the usual cats or dogs.
With a wide variety of tarantula species and colorations, those new to the world of pet tarantulas will find plenty to explore.
In this guide, we‘ll introduce you to a number of beginner–friendly pet tarantula species, as well as provide some general advice on tarantula care and setup.
We‘ll also cover troubleshooting common issues and answer some frequently asked questions.
Let‘s get started!
What Are Tarantulas?
Tarantulas are eight–legged arachnids that are among the most sought–after pets in the world.
There are over 900 species of tarantulas, ranging from tiny insect-eating tarantulas to goliath bird-killing tarantulas.
Tarantulas make great pets because they are low-maintenance, and adapt to a variety of environments.
These lone carnivores also have fascinating behavior and lifecycle, which make them fun to watch and interact with.
Benefits Of Pet Tarantulas
Tarantulas can be wonderful and rewarding additions for those who don’t fear eight-legged creatures.
Not only are they great to look at, but they also provide educational opportunities for children and adults alike.
Tarantulas are low maintenance and easy to care for, perfect for someone who wants to keep a small exotic pet but doesn‘t have the time and commitment for something higher maintenance.
Additionally, tarantulas are usually very docile and reluctant to bite, which makes them suitable for a household with younger members.
These fascinating creatures can also provide entertainment and a great way to learn about the importance of biodiversity.
Tarantulas often live for multiple decades, providing a long–term, rewarding, fulfilling relationship.
They require a lot of patience and understanding, as tarantulas are generally more reclusive and not as active as other pets.
Best Pet Tarantula Types
Choosing the right type of tarantula for a beginner can be a daunting task, as there are many different species to choose from.
To help beginners decide on the right species for them, it is important first to determine if a tarantula is the right pet for you.
Tarantulas are easy to care for and require minimal space, but they should not be touched due to their venomous fangs.
Once you decide that a tarantula is the right pet for you, the next step is to find a species that fits your needs.
Consider the size, activity level, and temperament of the species to determine if it is a good fit for you.
Beginners should look for species that are not as active or aggressive when compared to other types of tarantulas.
Additionally, captive-bred tarantulas are much easier to care for and available in most pet stores.
Once you have chosen your species, familiarize yourself with its care requirements and prepare for your new pet!
Goliath Birdeater (Theraphosa blondi)
The Goliath Birdeater is an incredibly sought-after pet tarantula choice for its impressive size, coloration, and hardiness.
Commonly referred to as the Birdeater due to the myth that it had the ability to capture and feed on birds, the Goliath Birdeater features an extremely dense fur–like tawny–colored coat covering its abdomen.
A full–grown Goliath Birdeater can easily reach a leg span of 11 inches in just a few years and can live up to 25 years when adequately cared for.
All in all, the Goliath Birdeater is an excellent choice for experienced tarantula keepers or those eager to learn.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Goliath Birdeater (Theraphosa blondi).
Salmon Pink Birdeater Tarantula (Lasiodora parahybana)
The Salmon Pink Birdeater Tarantula is an interesting and unique pet tarantula.
They are large and can reach a leg span of up to nine inches, and are a grey to pink color with black stripes.
These exotic arachnids require special care when kept as pets, due to their large size and dietary needs.
They are terrestrials and do not need high humidity or moisture.
However, they like to burrow, so a substrate that is several inches deep is ideal.
These tarantulas are docile and easy to handle, making them a great pet for any beginner in the world of tarantula ownership.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Salmon Pink Birdeater Tarantula (Lasiodora parahybana).
Pink-Toed Tarantula (Avicularia avicularia)
Pink-Toed Tarantulas are a smaller type of tarantula native to South and Central America.
They are a popular pet tarantula thanks to their small size (up to 6 inches leg span), deep purplish-brown/black coloration, and their striking pink or yellow-tipped toes and hairs.
These arboreal tarantulas need a taller enclosure with plenty of plants and branches for climbing, as well as a place to burrow.
They are fairly hardy and docile enough to handle, making them a great choice for beginner tarantula keepers.
Additionally, they can get quite used to their keepers over time.
They prefer a more humid climate, so it’s preferable to keep the substrate moist and provide frequent mistings with a water bottle.
A dry environment can cause dehydration and stress.
With proper care, these tarantulas can live for roughly 8-12 years and make great, low-maintenance companions.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Pink-Toed Tarantula (Avicularia avicularia).
Brazilian Black Tarantula (Grammostola pulchra)
The Brazilian Black Tarantula is a popular choice for beginner pet tarantula enthusiasts.
These spiders are native to South America and have black bodies with hints of pink or purple.
They have a medium to large body size, usually reaching up to 7 inches in size.
The Brazilian Black Tarantula has a slow and docile temperament that makes it resilient to handling and easy to care for.
With the right environment, the Brazilian Black Tarantula can live up to 20 years in captivity and make for a wonderful pet tarantula for novice enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on the Brazilian Black Tarantula (Grammostola pulchra).
Chilean Rose Tarantula (Grammostola rosea)
The Chilean Rose Tarantula is a very popular species of tarantula that makes an ideal pet choice for beginners.
It grows to a total length of up to 5 inches, making it a medium-sized tarantula.
Featuring a beautiful deep red-brown color and attractive markings, this tarantula is easy to care for and handle, making it a good pet for those with limited experience.
They are a largely terrestrial species and prefer warm and dry conditions with high humidity levels.
They can live for up to 20 years with proper care, and enjoy being regularly fed common insects.
For those looking for a gentle, yet captivating, pet tarantula to show off, the Chilean Rose Hair is an excellent option.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Chilean Rose Hair Tarantula (Grammostola rosea).
Greenbottle Blue Tarantula (Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens)
The Greenbottle Blue Tarantula is an attractive tarantula species with metallic blue legs and orange-brown abdomens, making them highly wanted pet tarantulas among beginners and experienced keepers alike.
Notoriously slow-moving, they are docile and unaggressive and rarely bite.
They do not require any specialized setup and can be kept in a standard 10-gallon tank with plenty of substrates for them to burrow in.
They prefer humid and warm conditions, so a heat source and water dish should be added to the enclosure.
In captivity, they can live for up to 14 years or longer with appropriate care.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Greenbottle Blue Tarantula (Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens).
Cobalt Blue Tarantula (Cyriopagopus lividus)
The Cobalt Blue Tarantula is a stunning and uncommonly sought-after species of tarantula.
Native to Southeast Asia, these arachnids are prized by arachnophiles for their iridescent blue legs and coloration.
Often solitary, this arboreal species can grow up to 5 inches in length, with females reaching a larger size than males.
As one of the few more docile species of tarantula, the Cobalt Blue is one of the most preferred choices for beginner pet owners.
While they require relatively high humidity and warmer ambient temperatures, they can be kept in fairly small enclosures, making them perfect for housing in captive settings.
With careful, patient handling and correct housing conditions, the Cobalt Blue Tarantula can make an enjoyable, and beautiful-looking, pet for the responsible keeper.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Cobalt Blue Tarantula (Cyriopagopus lividus).
Mexican Redknee Tarantula (Brachypelma hamorii)
The Mexican Redknee Tarantula is an eye-catching and popular pet tarantula.
Originating in Mexico, this tarantula is characterized by its black body and striking red markings on its legs.
It is a medium-sized spider, with a leg span of up to 6 inches, and can live up to 25-30 years in captivity.
Redknee tarantulas are terrestrial, preferring to burrow under pieces of bark or other materials and feed on live insects.
They are docile and easy to handle, making them an ideal pet for beginners, though they require a terrarium with a suitable substrate and plenty of humidity to thrive.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Mexican Redknee Tarantula (Brachypelma hamorii).
Curly Hair Tarantula (Tliltocatl albopilosus)
The Curly Hair Tarantula is a great choice for those looking for a timid and easy-to-keep pet tarantula.
These compact spiders have unique silky, curly-looking hair that them their name.
They are mostly docile but may flick urticating hairs if provoked.
Curly Hair Tarantulas prefer warm and humid conditions and an enclosure with a substrate of peat moss, soil, and leaf litter should be provided.
They require food such as crickets or other insects depending on their size.
This species of tarantula may be easier to handle than most because of its mild temperament, making them a great choice for beginners.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Curly Hair Tarantula (Tliltocatl albopilosus).
Desert Blonde Tarantula (Aphonopelma chalcodes)
The Desert Blonde Tarantula is a popular entry-level pet tarantula for beginners who are looking for a low-maintenance and undemanding species.
This beautiful species is native to the Southwest parts of North America and can be found inhabiting rocky desert and scrub habitats.
With a bright tan or light orange carapace and light yellow stripes running down the legs, the Desert Blonde Tarantula is certainly eye-catching.
These pet tarantulas are typically sold when they are already adults, so their spiny colors are well-developed.
Additionally, unlike most other species, they are very friendly and docile by nature, making them suitable for beginners and more experienced keepers alike.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Desert Blonde Tarantula (Aphonopelma chalcodes).
Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula (Aphonopelma seemanni)
The Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula is an ideal pet tarantula for beginners.
These beautiful tarantulas are native to Costa Rica and are known for their unique dark brown and white striped legs and abdomen.
They are relatively easy to care for and require dry, warm environments with temperatures between 77 and 86°F and humidity levels around 65-75%.
They need full-spectrum lighting, an appropriate-sized enclosure that replicates their natural habitat, and regular feedings with live prey.
They can also live up to 15-20 years, so they make a great companion pet.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula (Aphonopelma seemanni).
Antilles Pinktoe Tarantula (Caribena versicolor)
Antilles Pinktoe Tarantula is a beautiful arboreal tarantula greatly appreciated by tarantula enthusiasts.
These spiders are native to rainforests of the Caribbean, making them more challenging to care for than other pet tarantulas.
As an arboreal tarantula, they require more height than ground-dwelling species.
Potential owners must provide a tall, secure enclosure with plenty of climbing space.
They are also distinguished by their colorful, metallic bodies and pink-tipped legs.
The Antilles Pinktoe Tarantula is relatively reclusive and doesn’t interact much with its owner; however, they are an otherwise docile species and suitable beginners.
With proper care, they live several years and can be peaceful and captivating pets to own.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Antilles Pinktoe Tarantula (Caribena versicolor).
Gooty Sapphire Tarantula (Poecilotheria metallica)
The Gooty Sapphire Tarantula is an exotic and beautiful species of pet tarantula that makes an incredible animal companion for beginners and experts alike.
This species is native to India, where it inhabits humid forests.
These arachnids possess stunning shades of blue, grey, and orange on their bodies and legs.
Known for their gentle, docile nature, Gooty Sapphire Tarantulas can be relatively easy to care for and handle.
With ideal living conditions, Gooty Sapphire Tarantulas may grow up to 6-7 inches in size.
While this species is not particularly aggressive, caution should still be taken when handling them.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Gooty Sapphire Tarantula (Poecilotheria metallica).
Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula (Grammostola pulchripes)
The Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula is a popularly kept species of pet tarantula that is native to South America.
They are renowned for their striking golden-colored markings on their legs, resembling a pair of golden knees – hence the name.
Chaco Golden Knee Tarantulas can live for up to 20 years or more if cared for properly.
They make a great pet for arachnid enthusiasts who are willing to put in the time to provide them with the necessary nutrition, climate, and social interaction.
They are docile and curious creatures, and with the right care, will thrive in a home environment.
Growth rate and activity level depend on the individual tarantula, so it is important to observe the behavior of your pet and adjust the care accordingly.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula (Grammostola pulchripes).
Mexican Redleg Tarantula (brachypelma emilia)
Mexican Redleg Tarantulas are a popular choice for pet tarantulas.
They can reach 5-6 inches in size and have a lifespan of 20 years or more.
They are native to Mexico and parts of Belize and Guatemala but are widely kept as pets in much of the world.
Mexican Redleg Tarantulas are docile and have beautiful, rusty red legs with a distinctive golden carapace.
They prefer to live in dry, warm environments with low to moderate humidity.
These tarantulas are relatively easy to manage and make great pets, especially for beginner tarantula keepers.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Mexican Redleg Tarantula (brachypelma emilia).
Orange Baboon Tarantula (Pterinochilus murinus)
Orange Baboon Tarantula is a species of spider native to sub-Saharan Africa.
It is popular amongst arachnid hobbyists as a beginner pet tarantula since they are generally low maintenance.
Orange Baboon Tarantulas are a medium-sized species with a leg span of up to 4-6 inches so a large enough enclosure is essential for housing.
Orange Baboon Tarantulas typically have brown coloration with orange or red markings, giving them their distinctive name.
They require plenty of hiding spots and humid conditions, as well as appropriate substrate and decorations.
They will also need enclosure temperatures that range between 75-95° Fahrenheit and should be fed a diet of invertebrates such as insects.
Orange Baboon Tarantulas enjoy climbing, so providing them with branches and other items for enrichment is important.
With the proper habitat setup, diet, and care, they make great pets that can live up to 15 years in captivity.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Orange Baboon Tarantula (Pterinochilus murinus).
Indian Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria regalis)
The Indian Ornamental Tarantula is a beautiful and unique species of pet tarantula native to India.
These tarantulas have interesting colors and patterns on their bodies and legs, making them striking pet spiders to own.
Indian Ornamental Tarantulas are medium-sized and can live anywhere from 5-8 years.
They are known to be fast, agile, and skittish.
They can make a wonderful addition to a pet tarantula collection, however, they do require frequent upkeep and attention as they are flighty and sensitive spiders.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Indian Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria regalis).
Texas Brown Tarantula (Aphonopelma hentzi)
Texas Brown Tarantulas, also known as the Missouri Tarantula are a species of ground-dwelling tarantulas that originate from the Southwest United States.
They have a variety of different colors from shades of brown to blues, and have a hard, shiny exoskeleton.
These tarantulas are also fairly large, with a leg span of five to seven inches, making them a great choice for larger tarantula setups.
They are known for their friendly and mild-tempered nature, making them great for beginners who are just starting to care for pet tarantulas.
They also have an average lifespan of between 10-30 years, making them a great choice for anyone looking to commit to a long-term pet tarantula.
When it comes to care and maintenance, Texas Brown Tarantulas require a daily misting, and they prefer a slightly humid environment with plenty of hideouts among rocks and branches.
They also do best on a substrate of peat moss, and they need a temperature range of 75 to 85°F in order to feel properly secure and comfortable in their homes.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Texas Brown Tarantula (Aphonopelma hentzi).
Brazilian Whiteknee Tarantula (Acanthoscurria geniculata)
The Brazilian Whiteknee Tarantula is an ideal beginner tarantula species for those looking to start caring for pet tarantulas.
Known for its glossy black coloring and bright white knee and leg joints, this tarantula is both visually appealing and hearty enough to adapt to captivity.
With proper care, this species can live for up to 20 years and generally requires a warm and moist habitat.
They are also relatively docile and non-aggressive for the most part, so handling should not be an issue with Brazilian Whiteknee Tarantulas.
With patience and some insight into their unique needs, Brazilian Whiteknee Tarantulas make great pet spiders.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on the Brazilian Whiteknee Tarantula (Acanthoscurria geniculata).
Fringed Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria ornata)
Fringed Ornamental Tarantulas are an arboreal species of pet tarantula native to India and Sri Lanka.
These tarantulas have distinct yellow and blue/purple coloring and feature stunning marbled patterns, which is why they are a popular choice among tarantula enthusiasts.
They are globetrotters, meaning they have learned how to track their prey across long distances, and they are fast and agile.
For these reasons, Fringed Ornamental Tarantulas need a large enclosure with plenty of vertical space so they can climb and explore.
Fringed Ornamental Tarantulas benefit from a humid environment and have no requirements for special lighting.
They are also shy and don’t require frequent handling.
With proper care and the right enclosure, Fringed Ornamental Tarantulas can make great, long-lasting pet tarantulas.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Fringed Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria ornata).
Mexican Fireleg Tarantula (Brachypelma boehmei)
The Mexican Fireleg Tarantula is an attractive and enduring species of pet tarantula.
Native to the southern region of Mexico, this tarantula has dark brown legs with vibrant red stripes and a distinctive orange carapace that makes them unique and popular with many hobbyists.
They are known to be a hardy species that can live 8-25 years with proper care, making them an ideal beginner tarantula.
They are usually gentle and non-aggressive, leading to their popularity as a pet.
Being a burrowing species, the Mexican Fireleg Tarantula loves to hide, so they will need plenty of substrates and an 8-10 inch deep terrarium for them to dig and tunnel into.
This species requires slightly higher humidity than other tarantulas, so sufficient water should be provided with a spray bottle every 3-4 days.
With patience and the right setup, the Mexican Fireleg Tarantula can be a great pet to have as part of your tarantula collection.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Mexican Fireleg Tarantula (Brachypelma boehmei).
Skeleton Tarantula (Ephebopus murinus)
Skeleton Tarantula is a beautiful and unique pet tarantula with a wide leg span and a unique black-and-white coloration.
This species is often referred to as the Skeleton Tarantula due to its white/silver-colored legs that resemble bones.
They are a gentle and hardy species of tarantula that make an ideal pet for those just getting started with tarantula care.
They are relatively easy to care for and do not require many additional supplies besides a proper cage and some substrate.
While they can be easily startled, they usually make great pets.
Skeleton Tarantulas generally have a fairly common lifespan to other species of tarantulas, with some individuals known to live up to 15 years!
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Skeleton Tarantula (Ephebopus murinus).
Pumpkin Patch Tarantula (Hapalopus sp. Colombia)
The Pumpkin Patch Tarantula is an excellent pet tarantula choice for beginners.
It has a distinct look due to its bright orange color and interesting patterns. They are known for their docile demeanor and short size.
They are a low-maintenance species, requiring little upkeep and offering a variety of housing options.
During the day, they should be maintained at temperatures between 75-80°F and provided with a steady supply of water.
They enjoy hiding places, such as with hide boxes and plenty of substrates.
Providing live insects such as crickets and other small feeders is highly recommended.
With proper care, the Pumpkin Patch Tarantula can live up to 10 years.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Pumpkin Patch Tarantula (Hapalopus sp. Colombia).
Mexican Red Rump Tarantula (Tliltocatl vagans)
The Mexican Red Rump Tarantula is a popular pet tarantula that is native to Mexico and Central America.
This species of tarantula is quite hardy and makes a great starter pet for those just getting into spider care.
Mexican Red Rump Tarantulas have a docile and non-aggressive demeanor, and their vibrant red-orange colored rump makes them an aesthetically pleasing addition to any home.
Their size can vary from adult females growing up to 6.5 inches in size, and adult males being smaller at 4-5 inches.
As with other tarantulas, Mexican Red Rumps are carnivores and should be fed prey items such as crickets, mealworms, and other small insects.
They thrive best in temperatures between 75-85°F and require moderate humidity levels and a well-ventilated enclosure.
With proper care and handling, Mexican Red Rumps can be rewarding, long-lived pets.
If you’re looking for more specifics on this pet tarantula, here’s a full care guide on Mexican Red Rump Tarantula (Tliltocatl vagans).
Best Type Of Tarantula Terrariums
The type of vivarium you choose for your tarantula will depend on the species you decide to keep.
Generally speaking, most tarantulas can be comfortably housed in a glass terrarium with a mesh lid to allow proper airflow.
The enclosure should be at least three times as long as the spider’s leg span and have plenty of depth for it to burrow.
The terrarium substrate should be at least 3-4 inches deep and kept slightly moist, as long as it isn’t too wet that it causes mold to grow.
Include artificial or live terrarium plants and plenty of hide spots to give your tarantula a secure place to rest, and provide an appropriate temperature gradient to provide a warm side and cool side.
Never use loose sand as a standalone substrate, as this will smother and kill your tarantula.
With the right setup, you can make sure your tarantula has a safe, healthy, and comfortable environment that mimics its natural habitat.
Best Pet Tarantula Substrate
When it comes to a substrate for tarantulas, there are many options available.
Coconut coir is a popular choice as it is affordable and does a great job absorbing moisture and odors.
It also encourages natural burrowing behaviors.
For arboreal tarantulas, soil and sphagnum moss can be used with a layer of leaves or bark on top.
The substrate should be deep enough so that the tarantula can burrow or climb, depending on the type of species.
It’s also vital to choose a substrate that can retain humidity while still allowing for adequate airflow in the tank.
The substrate should be completely dry before introducing a tarantula, and it should be replaced every six months or sooner if necessary.
Best Plants For A Pet Tarantula
Live plants are great for keeping your tarantula’s environment healthy and stimulating, but it’s good practice to choose plants that are safe for them to be around as many tarantulas may attempt to eat them.
The best type of plants for tarantulas are tropical plants, air plants, and vining plants, as these are all mostly non–toxic plants with broad leaves and hardy stems.
Avoid plants with sharp leaves or toxic properties to ensure the safety of your pet tarantula.
Additionally, live plants should always be well–secured in the terrarium so your tarantula cannot knock them over.
Proper Pet Tarantula Care
Proper pet tarantula care is essential for the health and longevity of your spider.
Basic requirements include maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity, providing an appropriate habitat and furnishing, feeding your tarantula a nutrient–rich diet, and keeping the enclosure clean and hygienic.
Additionally, the type of tarantula you choose can determine the specific care requirements.
Make sure you have a thorough understanding of each species‘ needs and preferences before bringing one home.
With good care and a proper setup, your pet tarantula can stay healthy and active for years to come.
Habitat Requirements
When it comes to selecting a habitat for your pet tarantula, there are a few basic requirements that are essential.
The enclosure should be large enough for your tarantula to roam, climb, and hide while providing plenty of air circulation.
The temperature of the enclosure should remain between 75-85 degrees F, and a shallow water dish should be provided for drinking and humidity.
Don’t forget to provide plenty of hiding spots and climbing surfaces, as well as caves, bark, and other natural substrates.
Keep in mind that every tarantula species has its own unique set of requirements, so before bringing your tarantula home, do your research and make sure its habitat meets its needs!
Handling
When it comes to handling pet tarantulas, it is a good habit to always use caution and respect their individual preferences.
Although tarantulas may appear intimidating they are actually quite delicate and can be easily injured if handled incorrectly.
The best way to handle a tarantula is to gently place your hand or an object near it and allow it to climb on it.
Never force a tarantula to move, let it move of its own accord.
When picking up a tarantula, hold the sides of the abdomen above the legs rather than grabbing the legs, as this can cause serious damage.
Keep in mind that some tarantula species are more aggressive than others and may bite when handled, so it’s best to research and know the species before attempting to handle it.
Feeding & Supplementation
When it comes to feeding and supplements for pet tarantulas, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Tarantulas generally feed on live insects and offer a wide range of dietary options, including crickets, roaches, and mealworms.
However, you should always feed your tarantula its natural diet in the wild and limit processed foods as much as possible.
Additionally, you may want to provide calcium and vitamin supplements to supplement their natural diet, as these can help your tarantula stay healthy and keep their colors vibrant.
However, be sure to only supplement your tarantula’s food with vitamins and minerals advised by your veterinarian.
If you’re looking for a more detailed approach to feeding these critters, be sure to check out my ultimate DIY pet tarantula food guide. I give a more in-depth explanation of the best foods and my favorite recipe.
Identify & Treat Stress
Identifying stress in pet tarantulas can be difficult because they don‘t express it as directly as other animals.
Signs of stress in your tarantula can include slowed movement, reduced appetite, frequent molting, or living in their enclosure for extended periods of time.
If you believe your tarantula is experiencing stress, act quickly and take measures to reduce it.
These measures can include providing the right size and type of enclosure, using the right substrate, increasing the humidity of the enclosure, and making sure to feed your tarantula a regular and diverse diet.
It‘s also essential to handle your tarantula gently and with respect, ensuring that they‘re not being disturbed or exposed to loud noises or bright lights.
By taking these steps, you can reduce stress in your pet tarantula and ensure they live a happy life.
How To Setup A Tarantula Habitat
Creating a safe and comfortable habitat for your tarantula can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to tarantula care.
This step-by-step guide is designed to help beginners set up a basic tarantula habitat that meets the necessary requirements.
With the right materials and some basic knowledge, you can create a suitable environment for your pet tarantula to thrive.
Materials:
Steps to a DIY Tarantula Enclosure
Conclusion
Tarantulas make great pets for beginner keepers and can be a very rewarding experience.
With the knowledge and resources provided in this article, you can now start your journey into the wonderful world of pet tarantulas and find the perfect species for you.
So don’t be intimidated and embrace the amazing and unique beauty of these creatures!
With proper care and setup, your pet tarantula can provide hours of entertainment and keep you fascinated for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, tarantulas can make good pets if the owner is well–educated and provides the right environment for the spider. Tarantulas require special care and must be handled carefully to prevent bites.
The Chilean Rose Hair Tarantula (Grammostola rosea) is often considered to be one of the most friendly species of pet tarantula. This tarantula is easy to handle, docile, and requires minimal care.
If a pet tarantula bites you it can cause redness, swelling and pain. However, most bites from pet tarantulas are minor and rarely require medical attention. If you are bitten, monitor the area for any possible signs of infection.
Tarantulas are generally not aggressive creatures and will typically only bite if they feel threatened or provoked. They prefer to retreat or display defensive behaviors, such as raising their front legs or releasing urticating hairs, as a means of self-defense.
While some tarantulas can tolerate being held, it is not a natural behavior for them, and not all individuals will be comfortable with handling. It’s important to approach handling with caution, respecting the tarantula’s boundaries and considering their species-specific temperament.
Pet tarantulas primarily eat live insects such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms, although larger species may also consume small vertebrates like mice or lizards.
The Chilean Rose Hair Tarantula (Grammostola rosea) is often recommended for beginner tarantula keepers, due to its gentle nature. This tarantula is easy to handle, docile, and requires minimal care.
Tarantulas will typically display warning behavior such as rearing their fangs and leg waving before they attack. If you see these signs, quickly move away from the tarantula and take care not to disturb it further.
The average lifespan of a tarantula can range from 5 to 15 years, depending on the species. Female tarantulas generally tend to have a longer lifespan than males.
In general, male tarantulas are considered more prone to display aggression compared to females, particularly during the mating season when they may become more territorial or defensive. However, the temperament of individual tarantulas can still vary regardless of their sex.
It is generally not recommended to house multiple tarantulas together in the same cage, as they are solitary creatures and can become territorial, leading to aggression or even cannibalism. It is safer to keep them in separate enclosures.
The Goliath birdeater (Theraphosa blondi) is considered the largest tarantula species in the world, with a leg span that can reach up to 12 inches.
Theraphosidae is a family of spiders commonly known as tarantulas. These spiders have large, hairy bodies and long, spindly legs. Tarantulas typically feed on bugs and other small creatures, and build large burrows to hide in.
Tarantulas are indeed spiders. They belong to the family Theraphosidae, which is a group of spiders commonly known as tarantulas.
Tarantulas can deliver a painful bite, but it is usually not dangerous or venomous. The majority of tarantula species are actually quite shy and gentle, and will not bite unless they feel threatened. It is important to use caution when handling any tarantula to avoid getting bitten.
Yes, it is possible to let a tarantula crawl on you, but it should only be done by experienced individuals who are familiar with handling tarantulas and understand their behavior and needs. It is important to prioritize safety, respect the tarantula’s boundaries, and avoid causing stress or harm to the spider.
The feeding frequency for tarantulas can vary depending on their age, species, and metabolism, but generally, adult tarantulas can be fed once every 1 to 2 weeks, while spiderlings may require more frequent feedings, such as every few days to a week.
Tarantulas are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active during the night and tend to rest or remain relatively inactive during the day. However, their sleep patterns can still vary depending on their species and individual behavior.
Tarantulas do not require specific light or heat sources like reptiles do. They are generally comfortable at room temperature, and ambient lighting in the room is usually sufficient for their needs.
No, tarantulas do not have tear ducts or the ability to cry. They lack the biological mechanisms and emotions associated with crying in humans or other mammals.
When tarantulas flip over, it can be a defensive behavior or a result of stress. It may be a response to a perceived threat, attempting to intimidate or escape from the situation.
Tarantulas are not adapted for swimming and are not naturally inclined to do so. They are terrestrial creatures and are more comfortable on solid ground, typically avoiding bodies of water.
Tap water can be harmful to tarantulas due to the presence of chemicals like chlorine and heavy metals. It is recommended to use dechlorinated or distilled water when providing moisture for their enclosure to ensure the well-being of the tarantula.
Tarantulas typically do not require misting as their main source of hydration comes from their prey. However, some arboreal tarantula species may benefit from occasional misting to maintain humidity levels in their enclosure.
Tarantulas will often sit in their water dish or other sources of water if they need to hydrate. If your tarantula is dehydrated, it will drink from its water dish, so make sure that the enclosure is adequately misted and the water dish is regularly filled with fresh water.
Tarantulas molt by shedding their old exoskeleton and emerging with a new one. Prior to molting, they create a molting mat and secrete a fluid to help separate the old exoskeleton. The process can take several hours to days, during which the tarantula is vulnerable and should not be disturbed.
Tarantulas typically molt once a year or so, depending on species and size. Smaller tarantulas will usually molt more often than larger species. During the weeks prior to molting, the tarantula will eat more and stop moving as much so that it has enough energy to molt.