Goliath Pink Toe Tarantula For Sale? The 191 Correct Answer

A spider’s calm demeanor, minimal footprint, and relative ease of care can make it a great option for an exotic pet. Pink-toed tarantulas, sometimes referred to as Antilles tree spiders, get their name from their pinkish-orange toes that sprout from furry black legs. Native to South America, these fast-moving, agile creatures reside in trees, where they weave elaborate webs. As pets, they require housing that mimics their natural habitat, along with live prey. And although some people handle their spiders, these animals are more for your enjoyment as you watch their interesting behavior.

Species Overview Common Names: Pink Toe Tarantula, Antilles Tree Spider Scientific Name: Avicularia versicolor Adult Size: 3.5 to 5 inch leg span Lifespan: Up to 10 years in captivity (females generally live longer than males)

Pink Toe Tarantula Behavior and Temperament

As pets, pink-toed tarantulas are calm animals and spend much of their time in a calm state in their enclosure. Generally, you will see the most activity from them when they are chasing their live prey, such as crickets, at feeding time. Expect to spend a few hours feeding each week and keeping the enclosure clean.

These tarantulas can share an enclosure with others of the same species, although they don’t necessarily need the company. Solitary housing eliminates the risk of cannibalism, a situation that can arise when the spiders live in close quarters or are otherwise stressed. Likewise, it’s best to keep your tarantula away from other pets in the household, as they could injure one another.

While some owners prefer not to touch their spiders, others enjoy it. And if you do it calmly and gently, the spider usually won’t mind sitting on your hand or arm. However, pink-toed tarantulas tend to be shy and might try to jump out of your hands if startled. Because of this, it’s important that you handle your spider while you’re sitting on the ground. If it falls accidentally, it is less likely to get hurt. A fall from just a few feet can cause serious injury or even death to a spider. Additionally, a pink-toed tarantula may bite if it feels threatened.

Warning The spider has poisonous venom that typically causes a local reaction similar to a bee sting. However, some people who are allergic to the venom may experience more serious reactions and should seek medical attention immediately.

1:41 8 tips for keeping tarantulas as pets

size info

The pink toe tarantula ranges in size from about 3.5 to 5 inches in diameter. The females are slightly larger than the males.

Housing

An enclosure with some height is necessary for these tree-dwelling spiders. A 10 gallon tank with a secure side vent may work well. Because pink-toed tarantulas spin their webs high, the side opening prevents damage to the web if you need to open the enclosure for feeding or cleaning.

Pink toes can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, around 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, however, the case temperature should be between 78 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Under-tank heaters and reptile heat lamps can provide the right amount of ambient heat. Monitor the temperature with a thermometer in the tank.

In the wild, pink toes live in humid climates, so it’s important to maintain a humidity level of between 65 and 75 percent in your spider’s enclosure. In fact, one of the hardest parts of having a pink-toed tarantula can be keeping the humidity high. To increase the humidity, you can place a water-soaked sponge on the bottom of the enclosure and spray the enclosure with clean water in a spray bottle every two to three days. Not only will this keep your pet hydrated, but it will also benefit any live plants in the enclosure. Monitor humidity with a hygrometer.

To keep the enclosure clean, remove uneaten prey after 24 hours. Also watch out for mold growth, which can occur in a humid environment. Immediately remove any part of the peat moss or soil bedding that is beginning to mold. And expect a full linen change about every four to six months.

Specific substrate requirements

The tank should have 2 to 3 inches of peat moss or soil (free of fertilizers and pesticides) at the bottom, as well as small logs, branches, and live plants for climbing. Look for reptile and bird supplies—especially natural branches—at pet stores, as these are often good for pet tarantulas to climb on.

What Do Pink Toe Tarantulas Eat and Drink?

Spiders love crickets and other insects, which makes pet ownership a two-part project, as you’ll need to keep and feed live crickets next to your arachnid (unless you buy them regularly). The crickets should be gut-loaded (fed nutritious foods) before giving them to your spider.

Dropping live prey on the enclosure floor should whet your spider’s appetite, while the spider may ignore dead insects. Adult pink-toed spiders generally eat a few crickets every three to 10 days, and young spiders need a similar diet every two to five days. You can also occasionally give an adult tarantula a small mouse or small lizard as a treat. Be sure to ask your veterinarian about the appropriate amount and type to feed your particular animal.

It is recommended to feed a tarantula in the evening when it is more active and ready to eat. Leave prey in the enclosure overnight, but remove anything not eaten within 24 hours. Prey left in the enclosure that your tarantula doesn’t want can actually stress the spider.

Finally, your tarantula’s habitat must always have a clean water source. Place a few small, shallow water bowls throughout the enclosure and wash and fill them up daily.

The Spruce / Kaley McKean

Common Health Problems

Tarantulas are generally hardy animals that do not face many health problems in captivity. But you should still watch for behavioral changes such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or pacing around the enclosure. These can indicate a potential health problem and you should see a veterinarian who specializes in tarantulas as soon as possible.

Some owners confuse the spider’s molting cycle with disease. Molting occurs when a spider sheds its exoskeleton to form a new one. Before molting, a spider can lose its appetite and appear a little sluggish and boring. Many spiders molt while lying on their backs with their legs drawn up, which can alarm owners unfamiliar with the process. The actual moult only takes a few hours, but then the new exoskeleton needs time to harden and become protective. The whole process is usually over in a couple of weeks and your spider should resume its normal behavior. If this is not the case, or if molting seems more difficult or taking longer than normal, contact your veterinarian.

Tip Before you even get a pink toe pet, make sure there is a vet nearby who specializes in this animal.

exercise

As with any animal, physical activity is essential for a tarantula to prevent obesity and other diseases. However, tarantulas do not need excessive exercise. As long as you provide them with a large enough enclosure, they should get the activity they need.

personal hygiene

Pink toe tarantulas do not require any special care. Moulting is the main way they “groom” themselves. Ensuring the tank is at the right temperature and humidity can help the spider survive a successful molt. Also, make sure there is no live prey in the tank during a molt, as this can damage the soft, vulnerable new exoskeleton.

maintenance costs

The primary monthly expense for your tarantula is its diet, which averages between $5 and $10 — or potentially cheaper if you breed your own crickets rather than buying them from a pet store. That being said, you may need to spend around $10-$20 to refresh the substrate regularly. And you should schedule an annual vet check-up, as well as emergency medical care.

Pros and Cons of Keeping a Pink Toe Tarantula as a Pet

Pink toe tarantulas are easy to care for and interesting pets. They also take up little space and are quiet. However, they are not stuffed animals. And they’re not incredibly active for those who expect a lot of excitement from a pet.

Similar spiders to the Pink Toe Tarantula

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Otherwise, check out other tarantulas that can be your new pet.

Buy or adopt your Pink Toe Tarantula

You may not find a pink toe in a typical pet store. Instead, look for a reputable breeder or exotic pet rescue organization. Expect to pay between $20 and $40 on average, although this can vary depending on factors like the animal’s age.

reproduction/breeding

A local exotic vet may be able to direct you to a good seller. The main advantage of going to a breeder is that you are more likely to have a larger selection of hatchlings. But rescues often do not demand such high prices. Both reputable breeders and rescuers should be able to provide you with information on the animal’s history, health, and temperament. To avoid accidentally becoming a breeder yourself, keep your spider housed individually.

The pink-toed tarantula (Caribena versicolor) is an arboreal species of tarantula that is often referred to as the West Indies pinktoe or Martinique pinktoe. Over the course of its life, a pink-toed tarantula will cycle through many different colors, beginning with bright blue as a spider, only to progress to an assortment of metallic reds and greens as an adult. In our ultimate guide to caring for the Antilles pink-toed tarantula, you’ll learn everything you need to know about caring for your pet, including behavior, husbandry, diet, and everything else to keep these amazing creatures happy and healthy.

Understanding Caribena Versicolor The Antilles pink-toed tarantula is native to Martinique, parts of the Lesser Antilles and Guadeloupe, all small islands in the Caribbean Sea. Its rather docile nature and striking colors have made it a favorite among many collectors and hobbyists alike. The pink-toed tarantula is a medium-sized New World species and has been documented to reach 5 to 6 inches in length. Compared to other species, their lifespan is not nearly as long. Female Antillean pinktoe tarantulas live to be around 12 years old, while males have a life expectancy of 3 years. Caribena versicolor makes an amazing pet, but they require special care to thrive, including the right feeder insects.

BEHAVIOR AND TEMPERAMENT OF THE ANTILLES PINKTOE TARANTULA The pinktoed tarantula’s tendency to leap as it would in the wild is known for its rather calm disposition and can sometimes be interpreted as fleeting. While tarantulas don’t really benefit from handling (other than sometimes added stress), the Antilles pink-toed tarantula is quite tolerable when it comes to handling. They flee rather than bite, as their first line of defense is to hurl feces at what they assess to be a threat. As a New World species, Caribena versicolor’s venom is considered relatively mild, but these tarantulas still possess the ability to bite. If you or someone you know has had a severe allergic reaction to a bee or wasp sting, it is strongly recommended that they not touch your pink-toed tarantula. The Antilles pinktoe tarantula also has a fuzzy body covered in urticating hairs, but instead of shedding the hairs, they’re more likely to rub them off in passing. Be sure to wash your hands after handling this tarantula so you don’t unknowingly spread those hairs on your eyes or face.

Housing for Pink Toed Tarantulas Constructing a secure enclosure is essential to the care of pink toed tarantulas. You should consider humidity, ventilation, dimensions, foliage, and temperature when creating an enclosure for your Antilles pink-toed tarantula. Moisture A common mistake owners make when keeping pinktoes as pets is thinking they need plenty of moisture. While they are a tropical species used to high humidity levels in their natural habitats, an enclosure full of stagnant, murky air will kill your pink toe tarantula. Many grooming sheets suggest a moisture gradient of between 75 and 80 percent, however many grooms have had success keeping their pinktoes at lower levels. Ventilation Ventilation is very important for Caribena versicolor. This can be accomplished using a process called “cross-ventilation.” Placing holes or grilles on the sides of your tarantula’s enclosure allows for proper airflow. Dimensions In their natural habitat, pink-toed tarantulas form funnel-shaped webs in the leaves of tree canopies. Height is more important than depth when it comes to caring for your Antilles pink toe tarantula. Acrylic or plastic housings that are roughly the size of a 10-gallon aquarium can easily house a single adult and be modified for adequate ventilation. When it comes to tree species, many keepers choose an enclosure with either a front or side door. Because pink-toed tarantulas make their webs high, an enclosure with a door or lid at the top will constantly destroy their webs and make it easier for them to escape while feeding or grooming. Foliage Adding foliage or cork bark panels to your pink toe tarantula’s enclosure can create many hiding spots. This is an essential part of caring for the pink-toed tarantula. The substrate doesn’t have to be deep, but a layer of semi-moist peat moss or coir at the bottom of the exposure will help with moisture in your pinktoe’s habitat. Temperature The temperature range for an Antilles pinktoe tarantula should be between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They get a little more active in warmer temperatures, but you should monitor temperatures closely. Temperatures that are too high or too low are clearly harmful to your pink-toed tarantula. Overall, you need to maintain good humidity, ventilation, space, foliage, and temperature to create an enclosure that will provide excellent care for the pink-toed tarantula. Keep in mind that too much humidity will result in stuffy, stagnant air that will kill your tarantula. A bowl of water and occasional moistening of the substrate, as well as adequate aeration, are essential for your Antillean toe toe to thrive.

Watering and Feeding Your Antilles Pink-Toed Tarantula Tarantula diets consist of water and almost anything they can overpower, such as crickets, grasshoppers, mealworms, and roaches. You should always offer your pinktoe tarantula a bowl of water so that it can drink when needed. Caribena versicolor is an occasional feeder. Most pet stores, as well as private breeders, carry food insects for Antillean pink-toed tarantulas. However, it’s important to know that your pinky toe is getting the right nutrition. “Loading” feeder insects into the gut is a common practice, but it’s important to know what type of food is going into the feeder insects you use. Small crickets are usually offered to pink-toed spider-spiders because their fast and erratic movements almost always evoke a feeding response. As your pink-toed tarantula grows, many keepers choose to steer away from crickets as food. Crickets are not very nutritious, and they can also be dirty and full of parasites. Once your Antillies Pinktoe Tarantula is fully grown, Dubia roaches make excellent feeder insects. Compared to crickets, dubia roaches for Antillies pinktoe tarantulas are higher in protein, higher in calcium, and lower in fat. They are also easier for pinktoes to digest due to their weaker exoskeleton. Finally, never bring anything from the outside to feed your pinky toe. This can expose your pet to deadly pesticides and parasites.

The molting process for Caribena Versicolor molting is a necessary process for all tarantulas, but the Antillean pink-toed tarantula is special. As your pink toe grows, you can enjoy drastic, beautiful color changes. A typical sign of an imminent molt is refusal to feed, but you may also notice your pinktoe tarantula hiding in its web or other parts of the enclosure. First of all, don’t be alarmed. Be sure to remove all feeding sites from your tarantula’s enclosure to avoid unnecessary injury as they are very vulnerable during this process. If you notice your pink toe tarantula appearing withdrawn, has a shrunken abdomen, or is sitting somewhere on its butt with legs drawn up, these could be signs of illness. Seek immediate help from an experienced owner or knowledgeable veterinarian.

Tarantulas are a popular pet spider with more than 800 species varying in color, size, and characteristics. They often tend to have docile personalities and are slow moving. The best beginner tarantulas are ground dwellers or burrowers. With proper care, many of these animals can live around 10 years or more in captivity. Here are 10 species of tarantulas that can make fascinating pets.

Tip Tarantulas can bite and their bites are poisonous. However, in most species, toxicity is similar to that of a bee sting. However, like a bee sting, some people can experience serious allergic reactions to a tarantula bite.

Pinktoe Tarantula Pinktoed Tree Spider, Pinktoed Tarantula, Guyana Pinktoe Family: Theraphosidae Avicularia avicularia Photo © Animal-World: Courtesy Bill Korinek

The Pink-toed Tarantula is energetic and friendly, making them fun to hold!

The Pinktoe Tarantula Avicularia avicularia is one of the most rewarding tarantula species to keep in captivity. It is highly valued for its color and personality. This tree spider is a beautiful furry species that is dark black to metallic gray overall, with deep purple to reddish hues on its abdomen and leg hairs. But its defining feature is the gorgeous pink tips on each foot, giving it the names “pink-toe” and “pink-toed” tarantula.

Pinktoes reach a moderate size as adults. Females can grow to around 13 cm, with males being slightly smaller, reaching around 9 cm. They reach maturity in 2 to 3 years and are estimated to live between 4 and 8 years. They are fun to keep as they can be kept in groups unlike most tarantulas.

The Pink-toed Tree Spiders are docile and hardy. They are diurnal and build extensive web tubes in their enclosure. Although much more docile than their close cousin, the Antilles Pink Toe Tarantula, they will jump, so care should be taken when handling them.

These tarantulas are favorites because they are easy to manage and entertaining when cared for properly. But like the other Avicularia species, the Pink-toed Tarantula is a bit more difficult to keep. It requires the unique combination of high humidity and lots of ventilation. This combination can be somewhat difficult to provide in captivity, maintaining these parameters requires a regular regimen.

For more information on keeping tarantulas see:

Keep arachnids and other arthropods as pets

Scientific Classification Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: arthropods

Class: Arachnida

Order Araneae

Family: Theraphosidae

Genus: Avicularia

Species: Avicularia

Scientific nameAvicularia versicolor

Habitat: Distribution/Background The Pinktoe Tarantula Avicularia avicularia was described by Linnaeus in 1758. It is found in Brazil, Trinidad, Martinique, Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname, Venezuela and throughout the Amazon Basin. Other common names they are known by include pink-toed tree spider, pink-toed tarantula, and Guyana pinktoe. Most of those currently available are imported from Guyana.

The genus Avicularia is the most widespread group of spiders in America and includes about 20 species. This genus was also the very first tarantula to be described by science.

StatusThe Avicularia avicularia are not on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Description The Pinktoe Tarantula is a medium-sized tarantula with long, thick hair. Females reach about 13 cm (5 in) and males are slightly smaller, reaching about 9 cm (3.5 in). They are a gorgeous furry species that is dark black to metallic gray overall. They can also have attractive coloring on their belly and leg hair, ranging from a glossy purple or deep purple to reddish hues, sometimes accented with yellow. Their most distinctive feature is a gorgeous pink to pinkish-orange tip on each foot.

Adult males are long-legged and often sport an intriguing metallic black finish to their hairy carapace and abdomen. Females are a bit stockier, even for a tree species. They mature in 2 to 3 years and are estimated to live between 4 and 8 years.

Food and FeedingThe Pink-toed Tarantula or Pink-toed Tree Spider is an aggressive feeder. It eats a wide variety of insect prey including adult crickets, grasshoppers, cockroaches, and especially flying insects such as wax moths. In the wild they also feed on small lizards such as Anoles species, but in captivity they are not usually fed on vertebrate prey.

HousingIn the wild, all Avicularia species live primarily in trees. They live in human structures or on plants rather than on the ground. The pink-toed tree spider should be kept in a large, vertically oriented enclosure. A modified aquarium or tall plastic storage tray works well. Keep the enclosure dry and spray it lightly with water every few days. The cage should dry out between spraying.

By keeping several live plants in the enclosure, you can increase humidity levels. These plants can still be in their pots inside the enclosure or planted in the deep substrate. Living plants not only provide a little more moisture, but also excellent breeding and egg-laying areas. Provide a shallow bowl of water or two in the enclosure.

Temperature and humidity requirements:

This species thrives best if you keep the enclosure at a temperature of 25-26°C and a humidity of 65-75%.

Cage CareA good habit is to get rid of any uneaten prey the day after the tarantula feeds, as decaying organic matter often attracts mites, fungi, mold, and other potentially harmful organisms to the enclosure. If your pet has recently molted, remove uneaten prey immediately. Freshly molted tarantulas are vulnerable until their exoskeletons harden.

Behavior These are fun to keep because, unlike most tarantulas, they can be kept in groups if you keep them in a large enough terrarium and give them a good diet. Pink toe tarantulas are one of the most docile tree species. Many of the other Avicularia species are more aggressive and will run away or even bite.

Handling As a tree species, the pink-toed tarantula is very agile and active. They are quite docile unless handled roughly or pinned near your skin with their fangs. They tend to be jumpy and jumpy when handled and have a tendency to jump from hand to hand, hand to shoulder, or in extreme cases hand to ground (which can be dangerous). They will jump, so be careful with them. As with other Avicularia species, pink toes also like to shoot a small spray of feces as a defence.

Reproduction As with most tarantula species, the male pink-toed tarantula is thinner and has long, furry legs. He is equipped with hooks on his first pair of legs. These hooks are used to engage the female’s fangs during courtship and mating. A female remains bulky and less scrawny as she grows.

An adult male should be carefully introduced into the female’s enclosure after it has produced a seed web. The male can be protected with a piece of cardboard or other tool if it is to be used for further breeding attempts. Once mating has occurred, the female should be fed a variety of prey more frequently.

The pink-toed tarantula breeds fairly easily. They lay between 50 and 200 eggs, which hatch in six to eight weeks. The spiders are a fairly good size and are easily reared with crickets.

Diseases: Conditions/Treatments Tarantulas are generally quite hardy and adaptable given the right environment. Some signs that your pet is not acting or feeling normally are loss of appetite, lethargy, looking overly skinny, or pacing around the enclosure.

A tarantula on its back is unlikely to be sick. Most tarantula species turn on their backs during moulting. Although this is a very stressful and tricky time for tarantulas, if humidity and heat levels are right, they will shed their exoskeleton, roll over, harden, and be ready for their next meal within a week or two.

molting

One of the most common reasons your pet exhibits unusual behavior is a molting period. While outgrowing their existing skin, all tarantulas periodically undergo extensive moulting, during which all of their skin is shed, as well as the linings of their mouth, respiratory system, stomach, and genitals.

The process begins well before the actual moult. Before molting, they will have a new skin growing under their old one for a few weeks. During this time, it’s not uncommon for a tarantula to become quite lethargic and even stop eating. There can also be plenty of web spinning activity as they prepare to molt.

When they start molting, they will lie on their backs with their legs raised and look dead. Be careful not to disturb your tarantula when you see this. The molting process is quick and smooth as long as the environment is sufficiently humid.

Once they shed, their new skin is pale and very soft. The time it takes for your pet to fully recover and eat well again can range from a day to several weeks, depending on their size. Smaller spiders recover much faster than larger ones.

One of the most common reasons your pet exhibits unusual behavior is a molting period. While outgrowing their existing skin, all tarantulas periodically undergo extensive moulting, during which all of their skin is shed, as well as the linings of their mouth, respiratory system, stomach, and genitals. The process begins well before the actual moult. Before molting, they will have a new skin growing under their old one for a few weeks. During this time, it’s not uncommon for a tarantula to become quite lethargic and even stop eating. There can also be plenty of web spinning activity as they prepare to molt. When they start molting, they will lie on their backs with their legs raised and look dead. Be careful not to disturb your tarantula when you see this. The molting process is quick and smooth as long as the environment is sufficiently humid. Once they shed, their new skin is pale and very soft. The time it takes for your pet to fully recover and eat well again can range from a day to several weeks, depending on their size. Smaller spiders recover much faster than larger ones. Other problems

Other problems are usually the result of some type of environmental stress. There may be a temperature drop in the enclosure, parasites may be present, or the tarantula may just not be comfortable with the depth of its hiding place. These things can easily be adjusted or changed, or you can try moving your pet to a new enclosure.

Availability The pink-toed tarantula was once the most common pet spider in the hobby. It has a large range and was imported in large numbers by reptile traders for many years in the 1980s and 1990s. As import has declined, it is no longer generally considered an import today, but fortunately it is bred in some numbers by hobbyists in the United States and Europe and is often available as captive bred spiderlings.

references

Author: Russ Gurley, Clarice Brough CRS

Common Name: Pink Toe Tarantula

Species name: Avicularia Avicularia

Group or family: avicularia

PR Keeper Level: 3

PR Handler Level: 2

Species Background or Natural History: The Avicularia Avicularia is an extremely popular hobby tarantula due to its docility compared to most tree-dwelling tarantula species. This is the first tree species many people get and is one of the most popular species.

Physical Description: This species is metallic black/blue overall with pink tarsus. This species reaches a maximum size of about 5 inches, with males being longer-legged than females and females having a heavier body.

Distribution: This species occurs in all thematic areas of Brazil, Trinidad, Guyana, French Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela and the Amazon Basin.

Lifespan: Males live 5 years and die soon after sexual maturity, females live up to 10 years.

Caging: With this species, the height is much more important than the width, a high enclosure without a screen attachment is recommended. Screen tops are particularly a safety hazard with this species as they are constantly climbing and can get their legs caught in the mesh and possibly lose a leg. Only 1 inch of substrate is recommended as they are never really on the ground, Zoomed Eco Earth is a great substrate for this species.

Cage Decor, If Available: This species should be given a vertical branch or any wooden decor that your tarantula can use as fur. You can also add artificial or live plants, which will make paths feel safer and reduce humidity.

Temperature: The temperature for this species should be kept at 75 -80f

Heating and Lighting: This species does not require heating or lighting as long as your home stays within 25 to 26°C. If your hose falls below this, a small portable heater is recommended to heat the room.

Humidity and Water: Humidity should be maintained at 70% – 80%. The substrate should be kept slightly moist. The enclosure and substrate should be sprayed once a week. High humidity and good ventilation are required for this species to thrive. You can place a water dish on the substrate or glue one to a vertical branch.

Diet and Feeding: This species can feed on crickets, superworms, grasshoppers, and roaches as long as the prey is an appropriate size.

Dietary Supplements: Tarantulas do not need any dietary supplements

Breeding: You must have one adult male and one adult female in order to breed. You have to put the male in the female’s enclosure, if all goes well he will hold the female’s fangs with his shin hooks and inject his sperm into the female. You must be willing to separate them once they are done mating, otherwise the female might try to eat the male. If breeding was successful, the female produces an egg sac. They lay between 50 and 200 eggs, which hatch in six to eight weeks. When the time comes, you need to take the egg sac from the female, place it in an incubator, and cut open the egg sac when it’s ready. You then need to separate each sling and place them in individual containers.

Handling Your New Pet : The Avicularia Avicularia is a very fast and agile tarantula so care should be taken when handling this species as it can easily slip out of your hand. This species prefers to flee than bite and if fleeing fails they will defecate on you, biting being their last resort.

physical description

The overall color of the tarantula is black with some green iridescence on the hard-shelled torso and pink tint at the end of each leg. The tarantula’s fangs fold under the body, meaning it must swoop down to impale its prey.

Tarantulas have four pairs of legs, or eight legs total. In addition, they have four other appendages near the mouth called chelicerae and pedipalps. The chelicerae contain fangs and venom, while the pedipalps are used as feelers and claws; both help with feeding. The pedipalps are also used by the male as part of reproduction.

background information

The Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia avicularia) is a species of tree native to southern Central America and northern South America. They have the special honor of being the first tarantula species identified by Linnaeus in 1795. The Avicularia spiders as a group comprise some of the most popular pet species commercially and are one of the most widespread groups of tarantulas worldwide.

Avicularia avicularia has a large, mostly black body with pink toes and tends to be hairy for tarantulas. Their venom is considered mild even for a New World species. But of course, the possibility of a dangerous reaction is always possible, and you will only know if you are vulnerable after the bite. As with any species of tarantula, be careful.

habitat setup

Pink toes are a species of tree, so the height of your enclosure is more important than length or width. A 12″ x 12″ x 18″ should be plenty of room for an adult, while smaller spiders should be kept in much smaller enclosures. AMAC plastic containers are common in the hobby sector. These containers are the right size and easy to adjust to suit your spider’s needs.

A moderately popular strategy with this species is to use an enclosure that opens either on the bottom half of one side or on the bottom itself, with a lid deep enough to accommodate the substrate. But research and advice from people who have done this should be sought before attempting it yourself. The reason for this strategy is that pink toes will spend most of their time near the top of the enclosure, netting that area. Opening from the bottom will help you have more time to react to an escape attempt and won’t destroy the structure of the web your spider worked so hard to create.

substrate

The substrate for this species is not critical as these tarantulas do not spend much time on the ground. Not much substrate is needed to house them adequately. These spiders like their enclosures to be damp, so substrates like coco coir, vermiculite, or peat moss are good for them. Josh’s Frog’s Dig It substrate is also a good choice.

Keep the substrate flat to allow for easy cleaning and removal of uneaten insects and to prevent mold or bacterial growth. If you plan to use springtails or isopods as your cleaning crew, or plan to use live plants in your tarantula’s enclosure, Josh’s Frogs BioBedding Tropical is recommended.

decor

Because the Pink Toe Tarantula doesn’t spend much time on the ground, you don’t have to worry about adding decorations at ground level. The more stuff there is on the ground, the harder it will be for your tarantula to catch prey, and the harder it will be for you to remove uneaten prey. Half-eaten or otherwise deceased prey should be removed to avoid mold.

Your enclosure should contain several pieces of cork bark that reach the top of your enclosure. Ideally, one of these parts is a tube so the tarantula can hide. Artificial plants can be added and glued onto your cork bark to create more hiding places. These spiders don’t like being outdoors, and lack of cover can stress your pet.

water & moisture

A water bowl is necessary for your spider, but where you put it is up to you. Larger bottle caps that are slightly sunken into the substrate are commonly used. Gluing them to the cork bark halfway up is another common approach. Make sure water is always available.

This species thrives best in higher humidity (75-85%), which can be monitored with a hygrometer. If the humidity is too low, your tarantula could have trouble moulting, which in some cases could prove fatal. Do not spray your spider directly, spraying will only irritate the spider. You can add water to the outside of the substrate, the substrate will absorb it and evaporate, increasing your relative humidity.

Heating & Lighting

Pink Toe Tarantulas do not require UV light or a heat lamp. Simple light is more than enough for them. However, make sure that your case is not in direct sunlight. Your spider could cook this in its own home.

These spiders are fine in temperature ranges of 70-85, but at higher temperatures they are more active and molt faster. To achieve these temperatures you can use either heating tape or a low wattage under the tank heater. A thermometer should be included in your tank to ensure your spider is at a comfortable temperature.

feeding

Standard food for every tarantula is intestinal crickets. You should choose a size that your tarantula can handle. Small ¼-inch crickets are a good size for your hatchlings, and adult crickets are preferred for the adult spiders. Cockroaches are another common prey item.

There have been no reports of overfeeding young tarantulas, so feed as often as your spider eats. Be sure to remove dead and uneaten prey the day after feeding. And do not feed for a few days after moulting. Wait for your tarantula’s exoskeleton to harden before offering food again.

In adults, overfeeding isn’t a big problem, but there’s no benefit to doing so. If your tarantula only eats once a week, only feed it once a week, otherwise a few feedings a week is fine.

Tarantulas can go without food for long periods of time, but if your spider won’t eat, closely monitor the spider’s health and make sure it isn’t losing too much weight.

handling

The Avicularia species are easier to manage compared to other tarantulas, with a lower risk of being bitten and a milder venom (but still potentially deadly if you react badly to it).

However, many of these species, including Avicularia avicularia, have been known to jump. Hand to hand, hand to shoulder or even straight to the floor. Tarantulas are delicate, and a long fall from one of these jumps can prove fatal, so keep a close eye on your tarantula.

Remember that handling your spider does nothing. Your spider will not bond with you, nor will being around it improve its life in any way. Handling tarantulas increases the likelihood that your spider will fall from a height that can injure it. The stress of handling can also increase the likelihood of being bitten.

Always be very careful when handling tarantulas and be aware of the stress on the spider.

Interested in a Pink Toe Tarantula? See what we have available at joshsfrogs.com.

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Tarantulas are a species of spider that has over 850 different species.

These spiders are often mistaken for creepy crawlies. The truth is they can make very unique and exciting pets.

Tarantulas are easier to care for than most pets. They are also easy to feed as you only need to add food to their tank once a week! Pet owners love them for their unique appeal and exotic status.

There are many different tarantulas, so choosing the right species of bird is a must! Read on to learn about the 12 best tarantula spiders for beginners.

12. Skeleton Tarantula

The skeleton tarantula is named for the white stripes that run down its long legs. Their body can also be white or black, further enhancing this spider’s skeletal appearance.

Skeletal species is a South American spider. They are commonly found in the Brazilian Amazon and French Guinea, wet grasslands and rainforests.

The skeleton is relatively easy to maintain. It eats a wide variety of prey items and is not particularly fussy about moisture and temperature requirements. However, handling this species should be kept to a minimum. They can be very fast and defensive.

Skeleton tarantulas can make a good beginner spider, but they are best for keepers who don’t plan to handle or interact with their spider.

With proper care, females live 15 years while males live only three to four years. The skeleton tarantula typically costs $50 to $80.

11. Pumpkin patch tarantula

The pumpkin patch tarantula includes all species of the genus Hapalopus. It is considered a “dwarf” tarantula, meaning it is much smaller than the average species. It only grows up to three inches long and only requires a 1 gallon tank.

Their size makes them ideal for pet owners who don’t have a lot of space to house their spider.

Pumpkin spotted tarantulas aren’t as bristly as most, but they still have a unique color. Its legs are generally orange-brown in color and its body is black with orange spots, giving it a pumpkin spot pattern.

They may be small, but this species can live just as long. Females live between 8 and 10 years and males 3 to 4 years. Because of their small size, they require a special diet of fruit flies or similar insects rather than the larger crickets and mealworms

The Pumpkin Patch is easy to care for and ideal for those who want a smaller spider. They cost around $25 to $45.

10. Green Bottle Blue Tarantula

The Green Bottle Blue Tarantula is known for its green, blue, and orange body and royal blue legs. This is a beautiful pet tarantula that many owners would like to have! It’s sure to brighten up any room.

This blue spider is found on the Paraguaná peninsula on the north coast of Venezuela.

They tend to be quick and shy, living in scrub grasses and at the base of cacti. They often live in desert or grassland areas.

Green Bottle Blues aren’t the most docile of pet spiders, but they’re not overly defensive. Although a shy species, they can still be cared for by any beginner and make a great show pet.

This beginner spider is easy to care for and costs $60 to $100.

9. Mexican Redrump Tarantula

The Mexican red-rumped tarantula is one of several Mexican red species.

Mexican Redrumps are named for the red coloration of their abdomen. The rest of their body is usually black or dark brown.

Redrumps live in areas with low, dry vegetation that allows them to dig tunnels easily. They are a burrowing tarantula and have been shown to construct extensive tunnel systems in the wild. As a pet, they need several inches of substrate to burrow.

Mexican redrumps are the first species on this list to be considered docile.

They are hardy tarantulas and adapt very well to captivity. They can even use gentle handling from time to time, but most of the time they will be outdoors in their 5 gallon tank.

The Mexican Redrump is a low-maintenance spider and can be purchased for $25-$50.

8. Mexican red-legged tarantula

The Mexican Redleg Tarantula is another Mexican species. This spider is named for its reddish-orange legs. This orange color covers the entire leg, unlike the Mexican redknee where only portions of each leg segment are red.

They may not be as popular as the Mexican Redknee (#7), but they are gentle pet tarantulas that rarely bite.

This species often tolerates being gently held from time to time.

Redlegs are often quiet and low maintenance. They generally sit in one spot most of the time, but you can find them hunting for food or trying to burrow into their substrate. They make a great pet for someone who just wants to watch and only want to feed their spider occasionally.

Female Red-Legged Tarantulas can live up to 30 years and cost $70.

7. Mexican Red-knee Tarantula

The Mexican red-knee tarantula is the most popular Mexican species. They tend to be better known and easier to find in pet stores than the other Mexican species.

These tarantulas are known for their bright orange-red coloring.

This orange-red color is most noticeable on this species’ “knees,” or the parts of the legs that bend while the spider is standing. The rest of this spider is often brown.

In the wild, these spiders are almost threatened due to habitat destruction. However, they are now bred in captivity for the pet trade and cost $75 to $125.

Mexican Redknees tend to live longer than most tarantula species. Females live up to 25 years and males five to ten years.

6. Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula

The Costa Rican zebra tarantula is native to Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

Costa Rican zebras have a unique color pattern. The upper shell is typically black, brown, or even dark purple. What gives this tarantula its name is its unique double stripes on its legs. Her legs are otherwise black with light brown hairs.

The zebra tarantula is highly adaptable, very hardy and easy to care for in captivity.

Costa Rican zebras are one of the calmer and more docile species. It rarely sheds its hair, and its venom is not dangerous to humans.

These spiders can live up to 15 years and generally cost $25.

5. Tarantula with curly hair

Curly Hair Tarantulas are named for their long, slightly curled hair that covers their legs and part of their body. These bristles are often dark brown or black, but can also have a golden sheen.

This type is ideal for first-time owners. They are docile, hardy, low maintenance and very quiet. They also like to sit in your hand or on your arm.

Like the Costa Rican zebra (#6), this tarantula is native to Costa Rica and is a ground-dwelling spider. They don’t need a large tank, but they happily live with hiding places like behind rocks or leaves.

Curly-haired tarantulas tend to sit in one spot most of the time. But they can be seen hunting and occasionally rearranging their tank.

They’re generally better suited for pet owners who want a quiet spider, and cost $20 to $50.

4. Chilean rose tarantula

The Chilean rose is a tarantula that can be found at pet stores for $20 to $60.

Chilean rose species are known for their variety of colors, ranging from light brown to a rosy brown. They are also known for being docile and submissive, but it’s best not to handle them often as they can get quite finicky.

They are a very low maintenance tarantula.

Like most tarantulas, they can be fed infrequently and take up little space. They are also very hardy and not very sensitive to heat fluctuations, allowing them to live at room temperature.

What makes Chilean roses so entertaining is their demeanor. They are known to move rocks, sticks, leaves and anything else in their tank!

3. Brazilian black tarantula

Brazilian black tarantulas are one of the best spiders for beginners. They are famous for their docile temperament.

These spiders are really known for their temperament. Although no tarantula should be kept very often, this species is known for being one of the quietest and most docile. They are not very fast and do not scare easily.

Brazilian blacks are known for their jet black color.

They are one of the most docile of exotic pets and are highly sought after for their pretty, silky black colour.

Brazilian Blacks are bred in captivity, but their popularity sometimes means they can be hard to find. Enthusiastic keepers often buy them as soon as they become available.

2. Arizona Blonde Tarantula

The Arizona Blonde Tarantula is also known as the Desert Blonde. They are found in the southwestern United States, primarily in Arizona. Because they are a US species, they are often easier to find and cheaper than most pet tarantulas.

This spider is usually brown or black and blends in easily with its desert environment.

Arizona Blondes tend to live long lives, even the males.

Males live up to 5-10 years, while females can live up to 30 years! They are very hardy spiders that are well suited for beginners. They are easy to care for, docile, and cost $30 to $50.

1. Antillean Pink Toe Tarantula

The Antilles pink-toed tarantula is the most popular pet tarantula.

Owners love them for their unique looks. While most of this spider is black or brown, the tips of its legs are bright pink or orange in color. Sometimes their body can have a blue, green, or magenta tinge as well.

These tropical spiders are native to Martinique but are commonly bred in captivity.

As pets, their carapace should be taller than it is wide. These tarantulas are arboreal, so they live best with branches or corks to climb on. Another unique husbandry feature of this spider is that it requires high humidity, around 80%.

Pink toes are a completely unique color, are very docile, easy to care for, and are only $30. They are the best combination of all the qualities that tarantula owners are looking for.

Are tarantulas good pets?

Some tarantulas can make good pets, but that depends on the species. All of the species in this article are good spiders for beginners. What really makes them great pets is that they are fun to watch.

Tarantulas are cheap to buy and don’t need a large tank to thrive. They are also calm, easy to feed and very hardy. They can also be a short or long term pet. Males live about four years, while females can live over 20 years.

Despite having a stigma, they make great pets.

Are they easy to keep?

Tarantulas are typically very low maintenance, with simple daily grooming needs.

Most species do not need heat lamps or special humidity levels. Most only feed once a week, and their prey can be dropped right into the enclosure for your spider to find.

Your enclosure also requires limited maintenance. It should only be spot cleaned when necessary.

As a general rule, the length and width of the reptile’s tank should be about three times the length of your spider’s legs. A 15 inch tank is suitable for most species.

Overall, they are very easy to care for.

Do pet tarantulas bite?

Tarantulas should be kept as little as possible. You can get stressed trying to pick them up or even letting them run into your hand.

Although most novice species can be docile, that doesn’t mean they won’t be stressed during handling. They bite when they feel threatened.

You don’t want a tarantula to bite you, it would hurt you and your pet if you drop it.

Some species tolerate handling more than others; but it really depends on the individual. They’re unpredictable, so don’t expect a “calm” tarantula to behave the same way every time.

These spiders don’t seek affection like some pet lizards.

summary

Tarantulas are unique spiders that can be a lot of fun to keep as pets.

They require little maintenance and are ideal for first-time owners. They’re also great for someone who wants a quiet pet and doesn’t want to interact with them.

Most tarantulas have the same basic care needs and are usually available for the same price.

The best species for a beginner are docile and easy to care for. Antilles Pink Toe, Arizona Blonde, Chilean Rose, and Brazilian Blacks are good choices.

Do you have a favorite style? Tell us in the comments below.

Jan 1, 2010— — People who tremble at tarantulas probably imagine a gigantic bite from a fanged maw. But as one man recently found out in England, tarantulas are more likely to defend themselves by shooting a mist of microscopic spiny hairs straight into your eye.

Doctors were initially at a loss when the 29-year-old showed up at her ophthalmologist’s office at St James University Hospital in Leeds. The man didn’t mention colliding with his pet tarantula.

“The patient came in with a red eye… and he already had a working diagnosis of conjunctivitis,” said Dr. Zia Carrim, co-author of the case report, who declined to identify the patient.

His eyes had been red and painful for three weeks, but the usual medication for conjunctivitis (red eyes) had not worked.

When he arrived at St. James he was photophobic, meaning light hurt his eyes. Luckily, Carrim’s colleague Dr. Jonathan Norris to look at the patient with the greatest possible magnification.

“He [Norris] was really surprised…when you had high magnification, he saw these tiny protruding dots,” Carrim said. “He said, ‘I find that really weird. I see really small hairs in your eye. I do not know what it is.”

Finally, the patient recalled a strange occurrence while cleaning the cage of his Chilean Rose tarantula.

“While his attention was focused on a stubborn stain, he sensed movement in the terrarium. He turned his head to find that the tarantula, which was in close proximity, had released ‘a hair mist’ that hit his eyes and face,” Carrim wrote in the case report.

The man had no idea these hairs were armed with barbs that could help them get into his eyes. A few barbs had already made it past his cornea, past his iris, and to the back of the eye called the retina.

Carrim said it would take a week after an attack for a person to experience symptoms. As the hairs work their way into the eye with every blink, the eye eventually becomes painfully inflamed.

To make matters worse, the hairs were so small that doctors couldn’t surgically remove them, so Carrim and his colleagues treated the patient with a round of steroids to flush them out.

Tarantula’s hair flicking habit is relatively unheard of

Neither Carrim nor the patient knew that some tarantulas shed urticating hairs when frightened.

Unfortunately, many pet stores don’t tell owners, according to Cindy Steinle, who has adopted more than 30 tarantulas at her Small Scale Reptile Rescue in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

“It’s a defensive technique. They [the hairs] basically resemble little pieces of fiberglass,” said Steinle, who noted that rubbing hairs from the abdomen is often a tarantula’s first line of defense rather than biting.

Steinle says she protects herself and her three pet tarantulas by cleaning their cages by placing a cup over the spiders. She never bothers and in her four years as a tarantula owner has never seen a tarantula shoot out urticating hairs.

For more tips on caring for a tarantula, Steinle recommends doing a lot of research and visiting an online community like insecthobbyist.com.

In her experience of rescuing pets, she found that many neighborhood pet stores don’t always have the best advice on exotic pets.

“Pet shops don’t usually have a lot of knowledge unless they’re specialty stores,” she said.

In fact, says Dr. Roberto Pineda, director of refractive surgery at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in Boston, said some of the people most at risk are pet shops.

“Usually they’re very similar to this story where they saw a tarantula, cleaned a cage and felt something,” said Pineda, who has covered only two incidents in the past 18 years.

In both cases, the person was unaware that the tarantula could emit spiny hairs, in both cases the person did not experience any symptoms for a week, and in both cases the person did not realize that the spider was responsible for their red eyes.

The tarantula’s spiny hairs can cause vision loss

“The nice thing for us as ophthalmologists is that we can see these fine filaments in the cornea. So if you’ve seen or heard of this before, you can cover it,” Pineda said. “But most eye care professionals are unaware of this condition.”

His colleague from the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary agreed.

“If you picked five or six ophthalmologists off the street and asked them if you’d ever seen a problem with a tarantula, they would say ‘no,'” said Dr. Ankoor Shah, Director of Eye Trauma Services at Massachusetts Eye and Throat Hospital.

Without treatment from experts like Shah, Pineda, or Carrim, victims of a tarantula’s spiny hairs could eventually suffer severe scarring and vision loss.

Shah said hairs stuck in the outer part of the eye can cause scarring on the cornea. When the hairs migrate to the area between the cornea and the iris (the colored part of the eye), Shah said, the inflammatory response can cause pain and sensitivity to light, and even create enough pressure in the eye to damage the optic nerve. If left untreated, barbs in this area of ​​the eye can cause scarring and cataracts.

Shah said the 29-year-old Brit’s case was particularly grave.

“Somehow, one of those hairs got to the back of the eye… and that can cause retinal problems.”

Despite the danger the young man posed, Carrim said he didn’t seem too angry with the tarantula.

“Even after he realized it was the tarantula that did it, he still wanted to hold onto it,” Carrim said.

spider webs. Big black spiders. Furry tarantulas.

Halloween decorations often revolve around arachnids — the family of four-legged creatures that includes spiders, scorpions, mites, and ticks — of some kind.

(Teach your kids why they should appreciate nature.)

I think it’s simply because spiders and their kin with their many legs and fangs are considered creepy. Yes, all spiders have fangs and most have venom inside. However, most spider venom does not harm humans as it is quite weak.

Which brings us to tarantulas, specifically the Dickinson County Nature Center’s tarantula Pinki.

Pinki is a Chilean tarantula with pink hair, and visitors’ reaction when they see them is often an “ewww,” or a sound of terror.

But Pinki really is a neat animal. She was someone’s pet, and that person’s parents weren’t thrilled about having a spider at home, so the owner donated Pinki to the nature center so others could see how neat she is.

Chilean rose-haired tarantulas are found in the wild in the country of Chile in South America. There they like the dry grassland region on the edge of the desert.

They are called pink-haired because Pinki’s hair is actually a shiny, pink color in certain lighting conditions.

As we have said before, people are often afraid of spiders, especially tarantulas, because they have venomous fangs. Pinki has never bitten anyone at the nature center, and even if she does, most people are unaffected by the bites of this species of tarantula. If anything, some people can be allergic and would have a reaction just like a person allergic to bee stings.

Their venom is important to them because these tarantulas can only eat liquids — imagine having to put all your food in a blender to liquefy it before eating it. When it bites its prey, the venom affects the prey’s nervous system and its body tissues begin to degrade. To digest it, the tarantula spits digestive enzymes on it, further breaking down the body tissues into liquid that is sucked through the spider’s mouthparts.

We usually use gloves to handle pinki, also because tarantula hair can cause skin reactions. Hair on the underside of their abdomen—the abdomen—is a defensive weapon for them. They have sharp tips with small barbs that can only be seen under a microscope. When frightened, the tarantula uses its hind legs to launch a cloud of hair at its attacker.

I always think if you know why a spider has “creepy” things like fangs and spiked hair, it makes them a little less scary and a little more incredible instead.

Native to Mexico and Panama, the redknee tarantula has the traditional appearance of the banded tarantula. It will grow to a leg span of about 5 inches and while females can live up to 30 years, males only have a life expectancy of about 10 years.

They are docile, colorful and require little maintenance and space, making them a popular arachnid pet. While they are suitable for both novice and experienced pet owners, they are not the right choice for all aspiring pet owners. Read on to see the requirements of the Mexican redknee tarantula.

Fast facts on Mexican red-knee tarantulas

Species Name: Brachypelma smithi Family: Tarantulas Care Level: Minimum Temperature: 23° – 25° C Temperament: Docile Color Form: Dark body with orange bands Lifespan: 10 – 30 years Size: 5 inches Diet: Insects Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons Tank Construction: Substrate , water bowl, fur, heat pack Compatibility: Should be kept alone

Mexican Redknee Tarantula overview

The Mexican redknee tarantula is a popular arachnid pet because it is docile and calm, not inclined to run fast, and doesn’t need too much grooming or space. It will bite, but only if threatened, and while venomous, its venom is only equivalent to that of a bee sting and is non-lethal. However, they shed hair when they feel threatened. These toxic hairs can become lodged in the skin, causing a rash and irritation. Although the toxin is not considered dangerous, it can cause discomfort and owners should be aware of this.

In the wild, it is most commonly found along the coast of Mexico. It lives in deserts and on mountains and can also be found in the trees of forests. It lives alone, burrowing to create a safe place, and feeds on insects as well as small animals such as mice, lizards, and frogs. Its venom initially incapacitates its prey before turning it into an easily digestible liquid. If the spider is lucky enough to find a large meal, it will go without eating for several weeks, sometimes as long as a month. In captivity, most owners feed their snares two or three times a week.

In the wild and in captivity, the red-knee tarantula is a nocturnal spider, meaning it sleeps during the day and becomes active at night.

How Much Do Mexican Red Knee Tarantulas Cost?

A popular starter spider, this tarantula is native to neighboring Mexico. So there are quite a lot of them on the market. Expect to pay around $150 for a decent example of a Mexican redknee tarantula. You can pay more, and since the female can live up to 30 years, you may find abandoned specimens in shelters or through rescue groups in need of a home.

You’ll also need the tank and other gear, but this species doesn’t need lights and takes up minimal space, so the initial setup can be had for around $150.

Typical behavior & temperament

The Mexican redknee tarantula is prized for its calm and docile nature. She is one of the calmest tarantulas out there. It rarely bites. Although docile, this slingshot breed can be a bit nervous at times and you should keep your face away from them as their urticating hairs can be very irritating to the face. They are tolerant of handling. However, when yours raises its front legs, it doesn’t want to be picked up.

Appearance & Varieties

The Mexican redknee tarantula is primarily dark brown or black with orange bands around the knees. Their abdomen is of the same dark brown or black color and is covered with urticating hairs.

Urticating hairs, also called urticating bristles, are a defense mechanism employed by plants and some small animals. They resemble the hairs of nettles and are barbed. If the slinger feels threatened, it will fire the hairs at its predator, and they will lodge in the skin or eyes, causing significant discomfort. These hairs can be particularly painful if you get them in your eyes or if you breathe them in, so keep the spider away from your face and learn to read the signs if it doesn’t want to be touched.

The breed can have a leg span of up to 7 inches, although 5 inches is more common. Although females tend to be larger than males, this is not always the case and the most reliable way to tell the sexes apart is to examine the palpi. These are appendages near the mouth. The male has large palps with bulbous ends while the female has long and thin palps. Knowing the difference is important as there is a significant difference in life expectancy between men and women.

How to take care of Mexican Redknee Tarantulas

Habitat, tank conditions and setup

The Mexican redknee tarantula is a popular spider because it requires minimal setup and has a low entry cost to keep. However, there are certain requirements that must be met.

vivarium

It is recommended that this species be fitted with a tank of at least 10 gallons, but a 20 gallon model would be better if space is available. This gives your spider plenty of room to move around and gives it various hiding, feeding, and other spaces in its living space. The tank doesn’t have to be fancy, but it should have a lockable lid and shouldn’t have any holes or areas that would allow for easy escape.

substrate

Native to semi-arid desert regions, this tarantula prefers a substrate that is 50/50 sand and peat. Potting soil can be used in place of peat, and you can incorporate a small amount of bark chips. Tarantulas are burrowing animals, so you’ll need to provide a good amount of substrate, about halfway down the depth of the tank.

humidity and heat

Aim for a temperature between 75°F and 80°F and make sure the temperature doesn’t fall outside of this range. If possible, use a thermostat to maintain the temperature day and night. Humidity should always be above 55% and ideally between 65% and 75%. This isn’t difficult to achieve and can usually be accomplished with a decent bowl of water and the occasional misting.

lighting

Although your tarantula doesn’t need supplemental lighting, the species is unusual in that not only does it tolerate them, but it also enjoys sunbathing. If you provide a bright light, make sure your spider’s fur stays dark and that the light doesn’t change humidity levels beyond acceptable levels.

Other Accessories

You’ll need to provide a water bowl, a ground-level hide, and maybe some plastic plants to brighten up the place, although this is only to your advantage.

Do Mexican Redknee Tarantulas Get Along With Other Pets?

The Mexican redknee tarantula does not get along well with other pets. When threatened, it uses its urticating hairs, which can be very painful to other animals. Although the bite of the tarantula resembles a bee sting to us, it can prove to be more harmful to small animals. The tarantula also doesn’t get along well with other spiders and you should only keep one in each terrarium to ensure happy and healthy spiders.

What to feed your Mexican Red-knee Tarantula

In the wild, the spider would eat insects like crickets, but it would also eat small animals like mice, frogs, and even some small lizards. In captivity, the tarantula feeds on insectivores consisting primarily of crickets but also additional insects such as roaches.

Mealworms and waxworms can also supplement their diet. Prey items should be about half the spider’s body length, and you’ll need to feed four or five items a week. Anything not consumed within 24 hours should be removed.

Keep your Mexican Red-knee Tarantula healthy

Tarantulas molt. They grow new skin underneath their exoskeleton, and when it’s almost fully grown they have to shed their old skin to allow the new skin to emerge. Your spider may be lying on its back during the moulting process and you should not disturb it.

Tarantulas are hardy creatures and rarely get sick. However, they can suffer physical injuries if they fall from too high a level. They can also become dehydrated, which is evidenced by a shrunken stomach and listless behavior.

breed

Breeding is the only time two tarantulas should be placed in the same enclosure, and only when both are ready. The male forms a sperm web that is open at both ends. He will crawl under the web upside down and drop a sailor drop.

If your male does this, you can place him in the female’s enclosure. He approaches the female’s lair and taps his feet to lure her out. When she emerges, the male pounces. If it detaches, you should remove it from the enclosure immediately. The male dies within a few weeks while the female produces an egg sac that can contain hundreds of eggs.

Are Mexican Redknee Tarantulas Right For You?

The Mexican redknee tarantula is considered a good first spider and is a suitable spider for beginners as it requires little space and minimal maintenance and although it is venomous the bite is only like that of a bee sting.

However, be prepared that a female tarantula can live for three decades and be sure to provide the right level of warmth and humidity to ensure your spider is comfortable and leading a healthy life.

Selected images: Audrey Snider-Bell, Shutterstock

Common Name: Pink Toe Tarantula

Species name: Avicularia Avicularia

Group or family: avicularia

PR Keeper Level: 3

PR Handler Level: 2

Species Background or Natural History: The Avicularia Avicularia is an extremely popular hobby tarantula due to its docility compared to most tree-dwelling tarantula species. This is the first tree species many people get and is one of the most popular species.

Physical Description: This species is metallic black/blue overall with pink tarsus. This species reaches a maximum size of about 5 inches, with males being longer-legged than females and females having a heavier body.

Distribution: This species occurs in all thematic areas of Brazil, Trinidad, Guyana, French Guyana, Suriname, Venezuela and the Amazon Basin.

Lifespan: Males live 5 years and die soon after sexual maturity, females live up to 10 years.

Caging: With this species, the height is much more important than the width, a high enclosure without a screen attachment is recommended. Screen tops are particularly a safety hazard with this species as they are constantly climbing and can get their legs caught in the mesh and possibly lose a leg. Only 1 inch of substrate is recommended as they are never really on the ground, Zoomed Eco Earth is a great substrate for this species.

Cage Decor, If Available: This species should be given a vertical branch or any wooden decor that your tarantula can use as fur. You can also add artificial or live plants, which will make paths feel safer and reduce humidity.

Temperature: The temperature for this species should be kept at 75 -80f

Heating and Lighting: This species does not require heating or lighting as long as your home stays within 25 to 26°C. If your hose falls below this, a small portable heater is recommended to heat the room.

Humidity and Water: Humidity should be maintained at 70% – 80%. The substrate should be kept slightly moist. The enclosure and substrate should be sprayed once a week. High humidity and good ventilation are required for this species to thrive. You can place a water dish on the substrate or glue one to a vertical branch.

Diet and Feeding: This species can feed on crickets, superworms, grasshoppers, and roaches as long as the prey is an appropriate size.

Dietary Supplements: Tarantulas do not need any dietary supplements

Breeding: You must have one adult male and one adult female in order to breed. You have to put the male in the female’s enclosure, if all goes well he will hold the female’s fangs with his shin hooks and inject his sperm into the female. You must be willing to separate them once they are done mating, otherwise the female might try to eat the male. If breeding was successful, the female produces an egg sac. They lay between 50 and 200 eggs, which hatch in six to eight weeks. When the time comes, you need to take the egg sac from the female, place it in an incubator, and cut open the egg sac when it’s ready. You then need to separate each sling and place them in individual containers.

Handling Your New Pet : The Avicularia Avicularia is a very fast and agile tarantula so care should be taken when handling this species as it can easily slip out of your hand. This species prefers to flee than bite and if fleeing fails they will defecate on you, biting being their last resort.

One of the things increasingly dominating our politics is the powerful undercurrents that come from both an extrovert and a hidden billionaire caste. These people have a lot of money to spend. And there are only so many helicopters to buy before your senses become dull.