I’ll never forget the day I met my first tarantula. There I was, at my local pet shop, trying to find a low-maintenance pet that wouldn’t mind my busy schedule.
That’s when I spotted Luna, a beautiful Mexican Red Knee tarantula, calmly sitting in her enclosure like a tiny, fuzzy queen on her throne.
The store owner must have noticed my curiosity (and maybe my slightly nervous expression!) because he smiled and said, “Don’t let those eight legs fool you – these little ones are gentler than my grandmother’s cat!”
Fast forward five years, and here I am, sharing everything I’ve learned about these fascinating creatures.
Trust me, if someone had told my arachnophobic younger self that I’d one day be writing a guide about pet tarantulas, I would have laughed harder than a hyena at a comedy show!
But here we are, and I can’t wait to introduce you to these amazing pets that have changed not just my life, but the lives of thousands of other keepers too.
So, ready to explore the wonderful world of pet tarantulas? Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let me be your guide into this eight-legged adventure!
Understanding Old World vs. New World Tarantulas
Just like people from different places have different ways of life, tarantulas from different parts of the world act differently too!
Let’s learn about the two main types:
Old World Tarantulas
These spiders come from Asia, Africa, and Australia. They’re like the sports cars of the spider world:
- Very fast moving
- More likely to bite when scared
- Stronger venom
- Need more careful handling
- Not good for beginners
New World Tarantulas
These spiders come from North and South America. They’re like the family minivans of the spider world:
- More relaxed and slower
- Less likely to bite
- Special itchy hairs for defense
- Better for beginners
- Usually gentler
Best Tarantulas for Beginners
Mexican Red Knee Tarantula
Think of this as the golden retriever of spiders!
- Size: As big as your hand (5.5-6.5 inches)
- Life: 15-20 years for females
- Personality: Very gentle and calm
- Cost: $40-150
- Colors: Black with bright orange knees
Chilean Rose Tarantula
Perfect first pet that won’t break the bank! Learn more about the Chilean Rose Tarantula.
- Size: Like a big cookie (5-6 inches)
- Life: 15-20 years
- Personality: Very calm
- Cost: $20-40
- Colors: Pretty pink-brown color
Pink Toe Tarantula
Like a tiny dancer with pink shoes! Read more in our Pink Toe Tarantula Care Guide.
- Size: About 5.5 inches
- Life: 10-12 years
- Personality: Gentle and active
- Cost: $30-50
- Colors: Black with pink-tipped feet
Advanced Keeper Tarantulas
Cobalt Blue Tarantula
Like a piece of the ocean that grew legs! Discover care tips for the Cobalt Blue Tarantula.
- Size: Phone-sized
- Life: 20-25 years for females
- Personality: Fast and shy
- Cost: Similar to a video game
- Colors: Beautiful bright blue
Indian Ornamental Tarantula
The peacock of the spider world! Check out our Indian Ornamental Tarantula Handbook.
- Size: Up to 7 inches
- Life: 15 years
- Personality: Quick and needs space
- Cost: $100-250
- Colors: Gold, white, and black patterns
Goliath Birdeater
The gentle giant of spiders! Explore more about the life of a spider that weighs as much as 6 mice.
- Size: Up to 12 inches!
- Life: 15-25 years
- Personality: Shy but impressive
- Cost: $300-900 for adults
- Colors: Earth tones
Basic Care Guide
Home Setup
Every tarantula needs a cozy home with:
- Clean tank with air holes
- Soft dirt for digging
- Hiding spots
- Small water dish
- Right temperature and humidity
Temperature Guide
Keep your spider’s home at the right heat:
| Spider Type | Temperature | Humidity |
|---|---|---|
| New World | 72-82°F | 60-80% |
| Old World | 75-85°F | 65-75% |
Feeding Schedule
Tarantulas don’t eat much!
| Age | How Often | What to Feed |
|---|---|---|
| Baby | Every 2-3 days | Tiny crickets |
| Young | Every 4-5 days | Small crickets |
| Adult | Every 10-14 days | Big crickets or roaches |
Health and Safety
Happy Spider Signs
Your tarantula is healthy when it:
- Moves around smoothly
- Eats regularly
- Looks clean and shiny
- Makes webs
- Stays active at night
Warning Signs
Watch out if your spider:
- Stops eating
- Has trouble moving
- Stays at the top of its tank
- Curls up its legs
- Lives in dirt that’s too wet
Handling Tips
To safely handle your spider:
- Move slowly
- Keep them close to the ground
- Watch for stress signs
- Never handle during molting
- Wash hands before and after
Cost Guide
Here’s what you might spend on your spider:
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Beginner Spider | $20-60 |
| Advanced Spider | $100-900 |
| Basic Tank Setup | $100-300 |
| Yearly Food/Supplies | $50-150 |
Common Questions
Q: Do tarantulas bite? A: Most pet species rarely bite. If they do, it usually feels like a bee sting.
Q: How much time do they need? A: About 15-30 minutes each week for basic care.
Q: Are they good pets? A: Yes! They’re quiet, clean, and fascinating to watch.
Q: Do they need special food? A: No, just crickets and insects from pet stores.
Fun Facts
Did you know?
- Female tarantulas often live longer than dogs
- They eat less often than we change our phone’s wallpaper
- They can regrow lost legs when they molt
- Some species can make hissing sounds
- They keep themselves very clean
Care Tips for Success
- Choose Wisely
- Start with a beginner-friendly species
- Research before you buy
- Get your spider from a good seller
- Create the Perfect Home
- Use the right size tank
- Keep temperature steady
- Check humidity often
- Provide fresh water
- Feed Properly
- Don’t give them wild insects
- Keep food smaller than their body
- Remove uneaten food after 24 hours
- Provide fresh water daily
Choosing the Right Tarantula
If you’re still unsure, check out our Spider Showdown: Old World vs. New World Tarantulas to help you decide which species is right for you!
Remember, a pet tarantula can be your friend for many years! They might not wag their tails or purr, but they’re amazing pets that can bring lots of joy to your home. Start with a gentle species like a Mexican Red Knee or Chilean Rose, and you’ll discover why so many people love these fascinating creatures!
