Ever watched a tarantula keeper on social media and wondered, “Could I do that?” You’re not alone!
These fuzzy eight-legged creatures make fascinating pets, but first-time handling requires proper technique.
With the right preparation and gentle approach, you can safely build confidence with your new spider companion—without stress for either of you.
If you’re nervous about handling your pet tarantula, check out this Tarantula for beginners guide for safe and stress-free handling techniques.
https://zooawesome.com/wild-pets/from-scared-to-spider-parent-best-tarantulas-for-beginners-expert-guide/
Before You Handle: Get Ready
First, make sure your tarantula is calm. Look for these signs:
- Spider is moving slowly
- No raised front legs
- Not hiding in a corner
The best beginner-friendly tarantulas are:
| Easy Tarantulas | Why They’re Good |
|---|---|
| Mexican Red Knee | Very calm, moves slowly |
| Chilean Rose Hair | Rarely gets upset |
| Curly Hair | Gentle nature |
| Arizona Blonde | Good for first-time owners |
| Pink Zebra Beauty | Less likely to kick hairs |
“New owners should start with New World tarantulas like the Mexican Red Knee or Curly Hair. They’re much more forgiving if you make small mistakes,” says spider keeper Jamie Rodriguez.
Step-by-Step Handling Guide
You know how you approach a celebrity – carefully and with respect? Same goes for your eight-legged roommate! Here’s how:
- Wash your hands first – no soap smell! (My Curly Hair, Fuzzy Wuzzy, once did a dramatic backflip when he smelled my lavender soap)
- Put your hand flat in the enclosure
- Let your tarantula walk onto your hand
- Keep your hand low – no more than 12 inches from a soft surface
- Hold still and stay calm
- Limit first handling to 30 seconds
Watch for Warning Signs
Your tarantula will tell you when it’s stressed. Stop handling right away if you see:
- Urticating hairs being kicked (looks like a small cloud)
- Raised abdomen
- Showing fangs
- Fast movements
Dr. Maria Chen, arachnid expert, explains: “Tarantulas use defensive posture when scared. If your spider raises its front legs or shows its fangs, gently put it back. It’s saying it needs space.”
Last summer, during that massive heatwave, my Arizona Blonde (I call him Dusty) got extra jumpy during handling. Turns out, just like us humans get cranky in extreme weather, so do our eight-legged friends!
Safety Tips for New Owners
- Handle over a soft surface like a bed or couch
- Never grab or squeeze your tarantula
- Don’t handle after feeding or during molt
- Keep cats and dogs away during handling
- Don’t handle more than twice a week
Remember: 45% of tarantula injuries come from falls, not bites!
It’s like teaching a toddler to ride a bike – the helmet isn’t for crashes, it’s for when they wobble! Same with tarantulas – we’re not preparing for bites, we’re preventing tumbles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
New keepers often make these errors:
- Handling for too long (stick to 1-2 minutes max)
- Moving too quickly
- Picking up the spider instead of letting it walk on you
- Handling in a noisy, bright room
- Trying to handle Old World tarantulas too soon
My neighbor tried handling his Old World tarantula after watching one YouTube video. Let’s just say he now holds the neighborhood record for the highest vertical jump!
After Handling Care
Your spider needs rest after being handled. Here’s what to expect:
- Hiding for 2-6 hours
- Less active for a day
- Might not eat for 1-2 days
It’s like me after a big family gathering – I need to decompress in my cave too!
Finding Help
Join the American Tarantula Society or online tarantula keeper forums to learn more. Post photos if you’re not sure about your spider’s behavior.
“The best tarantula keeper is a patient one,” says exotic pet expert Tom Wilson. “Take your time, respect your spider’s space, and you’ll build confidence together.” Learn more about tarantula care basics
Just like the trending #SpiderSunday posts showing keepers chilling with their eight-legged buddies, you’ll soon be sharing your own tarantula tales!
Remember: handling isn’t needed for tarantula husbandry. Many keepers rarely handle their spiders. Your pet can be healthy and happy without being held!
And hey, if anyone questions your new hobby, just tell them you’re practicing for Halloween year-round! Works for me every time
