“My tarantula just runs away when I try to hold it!” This common cry from new spider keepers highlights a crucial truth: not every tarantula wants to be handled, and not every owner should try.
With over 850 species of tarantulas in the world, each has its own personality and handling requirements.
Understanding whether you should handle your particular spider could mean the difference between a lasting friendship and unnecessary stress for both of you.
Recognizing Reading Tarantula Body Language is essential to know when your spider is calm and ready to be handled
Quick Facts About Handling
You know how some people say statistics are as dry as desert sand? Well, these numbers from the American Tarantula Society might surprise you:
- Only 1 out of 100 proper handling sessions leads to bites (better odds than my success rate with making perfect pancakes!)
- 75 out of 100 spiders show some stress when handled (just like me at family reunions)
- Most spiders need 2-4 hours to feel calm after being held (we all need our alone time)
- 90 out of 100 handling problems can be stopped by using the right safety gear (think of it as a spider seatbelt)
Best Spiders for Beginners
Dr. Tom Parker, who’s been hanging out with tarantulas longer than most of us have had smartphones, says: “Start with the right spider, and you’re halfway to success.” Trust me, this is like choosing between a golden retriever puppy and a wolverine for a first pet!
| Spider Type | How Easy to Handle | Good for Beginners? |
|---|---|---|
| Mexican Red Knee | 8 out of 10 | Yes |
| Chilean Rose | 7 out of 10 | Yes |
| Curly Hair | 8 out of 10 | Yes |
| Pink Toe | 6 out of 10 | Maybe |
When to Never Handle Your Spider
Stay away when your tarantula is:
- About to molt (imagine trying to hug someone while they’re changing clothes – awkward!)
- Just finished molting (they’re as delicate as a chocolate teapot)
- Just ate food (we all need our post-meal nap)
- Showing threat signs
- Making a web nest (home renovation time – do not disturb!)
- Acting jumpy or scared
Reading Your Spider’s Mood
Speaking of moods, my tarantula had what I called her “dancing days” – when she’d lift her front legs like she was ready for a tiny spider disco. Dr. Sarah Wilson, spider expert, puts it more professionally: “Your tarantula will tell you if it doesn’t want to be held.”
Good Signs:
- Moves slowly (like me before coffee)
- Stays calm (zen spider vibes)
- Keeps its legs down (spider for “we’re cool”)
- Acts normal (whatever normal means for a spider!)
Warning Signs:
- Rubs its back legs on its belly (like a cat plotting mischief)
- Lifts its front legs high (spider version of “talk to the hand”)
- Runs around fast (channeling their inner Usain Bolt)
- Shows its fangs (definitely not a smile!)
- Flicks hairs at you (their version of throwing pillows)
Different Types of Tarantulas
Here’s something I learned the hard way – not all tarantulas are created equal! It’s like comparing a playful labrador to a wolf.
New World Tarantulas (Americas):
- Usually calmer (think spa day energy)
- Have itchy hairs (nature’s defense glitter)
- Better for handling (the social butterflies of the spider world)
- Milder venom (like mild salsa versus extra hot)
Old World Tarantulas (Africa/Asia):
- More aggressive (they wake up and choose chaos)
- No itchy hairs (but don’t celebrate yet!)
- Stronger venom (not playing around)
- Not good for handling (seriously, just admire from afar)
Health and Safety Facts
Fun fact: While working on this article, I asked my vet friend about tarantula emergencies. The Exotic Pet Veterinary Association backs up her stories with these stats:
- Most bites happen from wrong handling (just like most cookie burns happen from impatience!)
- Itchy hairs cause more problems than bites
- Falls can hurt your spider badly
- Stress can make spiders stop eating (relatable, right?)
Other Ways to Enjoy Your Spider
Listen up! My friend Maria (who happens to be Dr. Rodriguez when she’s wearing her vet coat) always says: “You don’t need to hold your tarantula to be a good owner.” And boy, is she right!
Try these instead:
- Watch it hunt (better than any nature documentary!)
- Take pictures (Instagram-worthy without the filters)
- Learn its habits (become a spider psychologist)
- Keep a spider diary (dear diary, today I made a web…)
- Make its home nice (spider interior design is totally a thing)
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How often can I hold my spider? A: Once a week at most. Less is better. Think of it like calling your relatives – sometimes less is more!
Q: What if I get bitten? A: It hurts like a bee sting. Clean it and watch for allergic signs. Not as dramatic as Spider-Man’s origin story, thankfully!
Q: Can I handle my spider after feeding? A: Wait two days after it eats. You wouldn’t want someone picking you up right after Thanksgiving dinner, right?
Recovery Time After Handling
Here’s the real tea about how long your spider needs to chill after social time:
| Activity | Time to Feel Better | Stress Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Health Check | 2-4 hours | 20% show stress |
| Taking Pictures | 4-6 hours | 35% show stress |
| Cage Cleaning | 6-8 hours | 45% show stress |
| Long Handling | 12-24 hours | 60% show stress |
Learn more about safe handling from the British Tarantula Society
Remember: A happy tarantula is one that feels safe. It’s like having a tiny, eight-legged roommate – sometimes they want to hang out, and sometimes they just need their space. Keep your spider’s well-being first, and you’ll both be happier than a cricket in a tarantula-free zone!
P.S. Speaking of crickets, did you hear about the tarantula who went to a bug restaurant? They said the service was great, but the flies were a little too fast food for their taste!
