The Goliath Birdeater is one of the largest tarantulas found in the world and I’m here to give you help you harness the power to contain one of these juggernauts!
This fascinating and beautiful species of arachnid can be found in the rainforests of South America, and bring a unique pet experience to your enclosure.
In this care guide, we’ll provide you with an overview of Theraphosa blondi, as well as step-by-step instructions on how to best care for them.
Let’s dive in and learn more about this incredible species of tarantula!
| Characteristics: | |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Goliath Birdeater, Goliath Bird Eating Tarantula |
| Family Name | Theraphosidae |
| Scientific Name | Theraphosa blondi |
| Use | Pets |
| Temperament | Non-aggressive |
| Lifespan | Males 5-6 years / Females 25 years |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Adult Size | 12 inches |
| Breeding Type | Egg Layer |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Minimum Tank Size | 15 Gallons |
| pH | 6.0-8.0 |
| Hardness | Moderate |
| Temperature | 75-80°F |
What Are Goliath Birdeaters?
Theraphosa blondi is a species of arachnid native to the tropical rainforests of South America.
These impressive spiders can reach up to a foot in length and feature unique patterns of red and brown on their bodies.
Their common name comes from a belief amongst early explorers that these spiders preyed upon birds, though this is not entirely true.
Goliath Birdeaters are part of the Theraphosidae family, commonly known as the ‘True Tarantulas’.
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What Do Goliath Birdeaters Look Like?
These arachnids are large and imposing. They can reach up to 12 inches in leg span and are covered in a thick layer of brown, hairy integument.
T. blondi can also weigh up to six ounces (170 grams).
The carapace, or the outer body, is brown to black, and the abdomen is a tan to dark brown color.
They have eight legs with two large claws on each leg, and spikes or spines underneath the claws that help them to grab and hold onto prey.
Goliath Birdeaters have two large eyes on each side of their head and can see up to 30 feet away with their excellent vision.
They also have sensory hairs spread all over their body that allow them to detect vibrations from potential prey or predators.
Benefits Of Using Goliath Birdeaters
Theraphosa blondi is a great addition to many types of vivariums.
Not only are they fascinating species of tarantula that can be enjoyed in a native setting, but they also serve as a natural form of pest control within the environment.
The Goliath Birdeater’s predatory nature helps regulate populations of smaller insects, providing a balanced ecosystem within the enclosure.
They’re also low maintenance, requiring minimal care and attention.
Terrariums featuring Goliath Bird Eating Tarantulas are also aesthetically pleasing, with the spider’s unique coloring and pattern adding to the beauty of the enclosure.
Lastly, these arachnids can be handled with relative ease, making them interactive and engaging pets.
Goliath Birdeater Facts
Theraphosa blondi are the largest tarantulas in the world and are native to South America.
They typically live up to many years and feed on insects, other small arthropods, and even small mammals.
They also have a wide range of temperaments, from docile to defensive.
Breeding is possible but complex and should only be attempted by experienced keepers.
Habitat
Goliath Birdeaters are native to the rainforests of South America.
They are found throughout areas in Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, Northern Brazil, and French Guiana.
In the wild, Theraphosa blondi make their homes in deep burrows in the ground that can reach up to three feet deep, although they are usually much shallower.
They tend to like humid environments with thick leaf litter and plenty of foliage for them to hide and hunt in, and generally avoid more open areas.
Replicate their natural habitat perfectly with our bioactive species-specific soil mixes, designed to provide the ideal moisture and organic content for your spiders.
Diet
In their natural habitat, Theraphosa blondi have a varied diet.
They feed mostly on invertebrates such as insects, but can also occasionally eat frogs, lizards, and small rodents.
They are also known to scavenge dead animals. Their favorite diet is generally grasshoppers, crickets, and cockroaches.
Temperament
The temperament of Theraphosa blondi can be hard to predict. As with any wild species, they are hardwired to be wary of potential predators.
However, when kept in a carefully maintained environment and handled properly, they can become fairly adept at adjusting to their owners and may even start to tolerate being handled from time to time.
Goliath Birdeaters are not like other tarantula species in that there is no risk of them biting regularly.
Instead, they tend to make excellent pets for those looking to enjoy the beauty of these animals without any fear of getting bitten regularly.
In addition, T. blondi typically live a solitary life, so it’s not recommended to house other animals or spiders with them.
They are considered to be quite passive and do not typically attack humans or other animals unless provoked.
It’s good practice to remember to approach large tarantulas with caution and patience, as sudden and aggressive movements could startle them, and lead to unpredictable behavior.
With the appropriate care and handling, Goliath Birdeaters can make for some intriguing pets.
Lifespan
Theraphosa blondi generally live for an average of 5-25 years depending on the sex. Males will typically live for 5 to 6 years and females for more than 25 years.
As with most tarantulas, the actual lifespan of Goliath Birdeaters will vary depending upon their care and environment.
This species typically lays its eggs every two or three years during the fall to coincide with the upcoming rainy season.
The eggs are then buried in the soil and the development of the spiderlings takes approximately 10-14 weeks.
After hatching, the spiderlings remain in the same area until they reach maturity, leaving it only to look for food and mates.
Breeding
Goliath Birdeaters reproduce traditionally by mating.
During mating season, the male will create a mating plug to try to ensure that only he has fertilized the female’s eggs.
The male will then deposit his spermatophore on the female’s webbing.
The female will then store the spermatophore until she is ready to lay her eggs.
After fertilization, the female Goliath Birdeater will lay her eggs and protect them while they incubate.
Once the eggs are laid, the female will guard them until they hatch.
This process is typically completed within 4-6 weeks.
The female T. blondi will also often leave her babies to fend for themselves, though she may stay in the area for a few days to ensure they are safe.
When the baby spiders hatch, they will typically scatter and each is on their own.
Where To Find Goliath Birdeaters
Finding Goliath Birdeaters in the wild can be quite difficult.
They inhabit primarily the warm and humid, lowland rainforests of South America, ensuring their conservation and protection from illegal capture or poaching.
If you’re hoping to observe this tarantula while on a nature trip, make sure to check out which countries in South America have the right geographical and climate conditions for these tarantulas.
Theraphosa blondi can also be found for sale in pet stores and online.
However, it is important to ensure that you’re buying from a reputable seller who obtains their Goliaths from breeders as opposed to poachers.
As with any pet, research the seller’s credentials and reputation before making an online or in-store purchase.
Additionally, be sure to confirm the age and size of the spider before making your purchase.
Finally, to ensure a stress-free transition, make sure your new pet is well-fed and has ample time for acclimation to its new home before handling.
Goliath Birdeater Care
When caring for a Goliath Birdeater, provide them with secure and adequately sized housing, suitable terrarium soil, steady temperature and humidity, and regular feedings.
Monitor their behavior and health frequently to ensure their well-being.
Tank Requirements
Theraphosa blondi require a large, secure tank to accommodate their massive leg span.
The ideal tank would be a terrarium, designed specifically for tarantulas, with a capacity of at least 15 gallons.
An enclosure lined with a substrate of peat moss, vermiculite, and coco fiber soil should be used as the main base for the spider.
A humid hide should also be provided for optimal humidity levels.
The ideal ambient temperature range for the Goliath Birdeater is between 75 and 80°F, with a humidity of 70 to 80%.
Additionally, good ventilation should be provided for the tank and a very shallow water dish should be available to increase humidity levels.
The cage should have no direct sunlight but rather should receive terrarium light through a fluorescent or LED bulb during daylight hours.
The water supplied must also be monitored regularly, with an ideal pH range of 6.0 to 8.0 and a hardness of approximately 5dGH.
What Do Goliath Birdeaters Eat?
Theraphosa blondi are opportunistic feeders, meaning they’ll eat whatever is available and convenient for them.
Generally, they should be fed once or twice a week, though this may vary based on the individual’s activity level or appetite.
Here are some common food items to offer your Goliath Birdeater:
• Mealworms
• Wax worms
• Crickets
• Cockroaches
• Super worms
• Slugs
• Pinky mice
It is vital to avoid overfeeding your Goliath Birdeater, as this can adversely affect their health.
Be sure to remove any uneaten food that remains after a day or two, as well as any food that has gone bad before offering it.
These spiders also require calcium in their diet, which can be supplemented with a calcium supplement by the keeper.
If you’re looking for a more detailed approach to feeding these arachnids, be sure to check out my ultimate DIY tarantula food guide. I give a more in-depth explanation of the best foods and my favorite recipe.
Best Tankmates For Goliath Birdeaters
Goliath Birdeater is the star of the show when it comes to tarantulas, as they are one of the largest tarantula species.
Despite this, it is possible to have other animals living in the same enclosure as them.
Keep small invertebrate species such as isopods, springtails, and snails to help munch on decaying debris and mold.
These animals also have similarly beneficial qualities of camouflage, humidity, and temperature regulation, which make them ideal tankmates for Theraphosa blondi.
Conclusion
The Goliath Birdeater is an interesting and unique pet that can make a great addition to your setup.
With careful and informed care, these large spiders can live a very long life in captivity.
We hope this care guide provided you with an overview of Theraphosa blondi as well as some tips on how to best care for these arachnids.
Happy Goliath Bird Eating Tarantula owning!
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Goliath birdeater, a species of tarantula, is generally not considered friendly as it is known to have a defensive temperament and can bite if threatened.
While the Goliath birdeater’s name may suggest that it preys on birds, it primarily feeds on insects, small mammals, and other invertebrates, and there are no documented cases of it capturing and consuming birds as a regular part of its diet.
However, it is capable of eating small birds, lizards, frogs, and other small animals due to its sharp claws and strong venom.
Yes, the Goliath birdeater has a few natural predators, including large snakes, exotic birds, and small mammals such as armadillos and opossums.
If a Goliath birdeater bites a human, it can cause significant pain and discomfort due to its large fangs and venom, but its venom is not considered life-threatening to humans.
If you accidentally step on a Goliath birdeater, it may result in the spider being injured or killed, while the person may experience a stinging or painful sensation if the spider’s urticating hairs come into contact with their skin.
The Goliath birdeater’s venom is not considered highly toxic to humans, although a bite can cause pain, inflammation, and discomfort.
The primary defensive mechanism of the spider is its urticating hairs, which can cause irritation and itching.
The Goliath birdeater (Theraphosa blondi) is considered the largest spider in the world by mass.