The world’s 900+ tarantula species (family Theraphosidae) provide us with a fascinating array of spiders that make interesting, long-lived pets. My uncle, a zoologist, told me that in his youth only a single species, the Mexican Red Knee, was available in the pet trade. Today dozens are being captive bred...some of which were not even known to science until recently! However, as tarantulas become more “mainstream” - even offered for sale in chain pet stores - the chances increase that they may be purchased by people who do not understand their true natures. Following are 5 critical points that the prospective tarantula owner should consider.

Pets that Cannot be Tamed

Tarantulas are capable of learning, and they can become quite well adjusted to disturbances that, in their wild state, would be very stressful. However, they are mainly guided by instinct, and cannot in any way be tamed or “trusted” – they will not bond with people.

Please ignore the foolish advice so common on the Internet and do not handle your tarantula. While the venom produced by tarantulas has not (as far as is known) resulted in human fatalities, children, the elderly, and people with allergies or weakened immune systems may be at risk. Serious reactions, termed "medically significant" by doctors, have been caused by the bites of certain Asian tarantulas.

Tarantulas native to the Western Hemisphere bear urticating (irritating) hairs that are used to repel predators. Hairs that come in contact with soft tissue can cause severe injuries. My uncle's Bronx Zoo coworker underwent extensive eye surgery in order to remove Red Knee Tarantula hairs from his eye. The hairs were not deliberately shed in response to a threat, as the spider involved was quite calm. They apparently clung to the victim's hand after he worked in the terrarium or handled the animal.

Tarantulas are Nocturnal and Secretive

Well-adjusted tarantulas often emerge to hunt by day, but they will otherwise remain in hiding until nightfall. Few will do well if denied a shelter and forced to remain in the open.

Fortunately, red or black night- viewing bulbs will allow you to observe your pets after dark.

Your “Single” Tarantula may Surprise You with an Egg Sac

As a single mating can result in multiple egg cases, females hosed alone sometimes produce eggs. If you are not aware of a female’s history, you may find yourself with more tarantula-related responsibilities than you bargained for! Raising 100 or so tiny, cannibalistic spiderlings is a fascinating project, but is not for everyone.

Tarantulas Need Live Food

While some captive tarantulas learn to take pre-killed insects and pink mice from tongs (do not hand-feed!), live insects will form the vast majority of your pet's diet. Crickets seem to work well as the main diet for many species, but the best long term results will be achieved by providing a varied menu which includes roaches, waxworms, silkworms, grasshoppers, earthworms and other invertebrates.

The “It Doesn’t Do Anything” Factor

Ideally, the new tarantula owner will value the spider for its own sake. But most of us also wish to see how the animal lives, what it does, and so on. Well-fed tarantulas, other than males seeking a mate, are generally about as active as a (nocturnal) “pet rock"!

I'll post articles about the care of individual tarantula species in the future. Until then, please feel free to post any questions you may have. Thanks, Haiden.

Photos: 

1. Fangs of Brazilian Salmon Pink Tarantula, Lasiodora parayhybana

2. Mexican Red-Rump Tarantua, Brachypelma vagans

3. Tarantula Defense Display

4. Indian Ornamental Tarantula, Pocilotheria regalis

5.. Red-Knee Tarantula, Brachypelma smithi