Tarantulas as Pets: New World vs Old World
New World vs Old World
- New World tarantulas (the Americas) are the usual beginner choice. Many are calm, and most defend themselves by flicking irritating hairs from their abdomen, which can irritate skin and eyes.
- Old World tarantulas (Africa, Asia, Australia) don't have those hairs. They tend to be faster and more defensive, and their bites are generally considered more painful and medically significant. They suit experienced keepers only.
Look, Don't Handle
Most keepers treat tarantulas as display animals. A fall from even a short height can rupture a heavy-bodied tarantula's abdomen, and handling stresses the spider for no benefit. Move a tarantula with a cup and a card. Wash your hands after maintenance, and keep children supervised. Anyone with allergies or asthma should be cautious about irritating hairs.
Secure, Escape-Proof Housing
- Ground-dwelling species: a low enclosure about two to three times the spider's legspan wide, with height kept low so a climb can't end in a long fall. Deep enough substrate to burrow for burrowing species.
- Tree-dwelling species: a taller enclosure with cork bark to climb and web on.
- A hide, a shallow water dish, and a secure, ventilated lid with no gaps.
- Room temperature suits most common species; avoid direct sun and heat mats underneath.
Feeding
Feed live insects (crickets, roaches) no bigger than the spider's body. Spiderlings eat more often; adults may eat every week or two and can fast for weeks, especially before a molt. Remove uneaten insects within a day so they can't bother the spider.
Molting: Leave Them Alone
Tarantulas grow by molting. Before a molt they stop eating and may seal themselves in. During and after a molt they lie on their back and are very soft and vulnerable. Don't disturb them, remove all live food, and don't feed until the fangs have hardened, usually several days to a couple of weeks later depending on size.
Setting Up a Secure Tarantula Enclosure
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A secure enclosure suited to your species is the base: low and wide for ground-dwellers, tall for tree-dwellers. Coconut fiber holds burrows, and a cork bark hide gives cover. A shallow water dish, long soft tongs and a small catch cup make maintenance safe.
Rules Differ by Country
Common pet tarantulas are legal in many countries, but import and keeping rules vary, and some countries restrict them. Some other spiders, such as certain widow and funnel-web species, need dangerous wild animal licenses in some places, and we don't cover them. Check with your national authority before you buy, and buy captive-bred.
Frequently Asked Questions
Handling and lifespan come up most.
Are tarantulas good pets for beginners?
Calm New World ground-dwelling species are good display pets for beginners. Old World species are for experienced keepers.
Can I handle my tarantula?
It's not recommended. Falls can be fatal, and handling stresses the spider. Use a cup and card to move it.
How long do tarantulas live?
Females of many species live 15–30 years. Males usually live a year or two after reaching maturity.
How often do tarantulas eat?
Adults every week or two, and they can fast for weeks, especially before a molt.
Why is my tarantula on its back?
It's almost certainly molting. Leave it alone, remove live food, and wait until the new skin has hardened before feeding.
Are tarantula bites dangerous?
Bites from common New World species are usually compared to a bee sting, but Old World bites can be much worse, and anyone can react badly. If you're bitten and feel unwell, get medical advice.
Related Reading
- Jumping spiders: small, curious and interactive.
- Wild-caught and venomous animals: what we don't cover.
- Unusual Companions: more invertebrates.
Few vets treat invertebrates. If your tarantula seems unwell, an exotics vet or an experienced keeper can advise.