Tarantula pet: Spider, Keeping, Handling, Care
Tarantula pet: Keeping a tarantula as a pet can be a rewarding experience for arachnid enthusiasts. They are low-maintenance pets that can be fascinating to observe. However, they do require specific care to ensure their health and well-being. Here’s a guide on keeping, handling, and caring for pet tarantulas:
Choosing a Tarantula
When selecting a tarantula, consider the following factors:
- Species: Choose a species that suits your experience level. Beginners often start with species like the Chilean Rose Hair (Grammostola rosea), Mexican Red Knee (Brachypelma hamorii), or Curly Hair (Tliltocatl albopilosus) due to their docile nature and ease of care.
- Size: Consider the adult size of the tarantula. Some species can grow quite large, so ensure you have an appropriately sized enclosure.
- Temperament: Some tarantulas are more docile and easier to handle, while others can be more defensive or skittish.
Tarantula pet: Housing
- Enclosure:
- Size: The enclosure should be at least 3 times the leg span of the tarantula in length and width, and as tall as the tarantula’s leg span for terrestrial species. Arboreal species require taller enclosures.
- Material: Glass or plastic enclosures with secure, ventilated lids are ideal.
- Substrate: Use a substrate like coconut fiber, peat moss, or vermiculite to maintain humidity and allow burrowing.
- Temperature and Humidity:
- Temperature: Maintain a temperature range between 70-85°F (21-29°C) depending on the species.
- Humidity: Maintain humidity levels appropriate for the species, generally between 50-70%. Use a hygrometer to monitor levels.
- Heat Source: Use a heat mat on the side of the enclosure if needed. Avoid direct heat sources like heat lamps.
- Decor and Hiding Spots:
- Provide hiding spots using cork bark, half logs, or small flower pots.
- Include some artificial or live plants for enrichment and a more natural environment.
- Water:
- Provide a shallow water dish with fresh water. Ensure it is not too deep to prevent drowning.
Tarantula pet: Feeding
- Diet: Tarantulas primarily eat live insects such as crickets, mealworms, roaches, and occasionally pinkie mice for larger species.
- Feeding Frequency: Juveniles can be fed every few days, while adults require feeding once a week or less.
- Prey Size: Feed prey that is no larger than the tarantula’s abdomen to prevent injury.
Handling
- Minimal Handling: Tarantulas are generally not handling pets. Excessive handling can stress them and increase the risk of injury.
- Safe Handling: If you must handle, ensure your hands are close to the ground to prevent falls. Gently coax the tarantula onto your hand using a soft brush.
- Caution: Be aware of the species’ temperament. Some can be more aggressive and may bite if threatened.
Molting
- Understanding Molting: Tarantulas molt periodically to grow. During this time, they may refuse food and become less active.
- Signs of Molting: The tarantula may lie on its back, appearing dead. This is normal behavior during molting.
- Post-Molt Care: After molting, the tarantula’s exoskeleton is soft. Avoid feeding for a few days to allow it to harden.
Health and Maintenance
- Regular Checks: Monitor your tarantula for signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or abnormal behavior.
- Cleaning: Spot clean the enclosure regularly and replace substrate as needed. Clean the entire enclosure every few months.
Tarantula pet information
- Tarantulas live for 10–15 years.
- Tarantulas do not like being held, touched, or handled. Not for cuddling.
- They don’t stink.
- A tarantula does not recognize its handler.
Common Tarantula Species for Beginners
Chilean Rose Hair (Grammostola rosea): Known for its calm temperament.
Mexican Red Knee (Brachypelma hamorii): Attractive and relatively docile.
Goliath Birdeater Tarantula (Theraphosa blondi) the Goliath is not the malevolent, wrathful monster that they are often characterized to be.
Pink Toe (Avicularia avicularia): An arboreal species known for its unique coloring.
Conclusion
Tarantulas are fascinating pets that require specific care and a calm environment. By providing a suitable habitat, diet, and minimal handling, you can enjoy observing these intriguing creatures and their natural behaviors. Always research the specific needs of the species you choose to ensure you meet their care requirements.
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