Guidelines for Handling and Caring for Tarantulas: A Comprehensive Guide for Enthusiasts

Tarantulas, often referred to as wanderers in the wild due to their impressive escape abilities, require specific living conditions to ensure their well-being. This guide outlines detailed steps on creating a suitable habitat, feeding, and handling your tarantula with care and safety in mind.

Creating a Habitat

Tarantulas are escape artists, and it's crucial to ensure that your terrarium is secure. The top of the tank should lock tightly, and even small gaps should be sealed to prevent any unwanted escapes. While a 10-gallon (37 liters) tank is ideal for a single tarantula, a 5-gallon (18 liters) tank can be used to house a smaller species.

Adapting a Small Fish Tank

If you have a small fish tank, it can be repurposed for a tarantula with some modifications. Use aquarium silicone sealer to seal the feeding holes, and leave 2 small holes in the top for ventilation. For tree-dwelling tarantulas, place the tank vertically to simulate their natural habitat. This setup requires additional vertical space but can be risky for burrowing species, as they are more prone to injury from falls.

Substrate and Shelter

A thin layer of sterilized substrate should be spread on the bottom of the terrarium, ranging from 1-3 inches (2.54-7.62 cm). Vermiculite and cocoa fiber can provide a good base, with options like coconut fiber, reptile bark, sphagnum moss, peat moss, and sterilized potting soil available. Burrowing species may need a deeper substrate, up to 5 inches (12.7 cm).

For a daytime hiding spot, create a shelter using a broken pot halved and buried in the sand. Alternatively, a hollowed log can serve as an excellent hiding place. Ensure it's dry and free from sharp objects that could harm your tarantula.

Decor and Temperature

Bamboo and silk plants can provide ample decoration for tree-dwelling species, while ground dwellers should be less encouraged to climb to prevent falls. Monitor the temperature range, maintaining it between 22-30°C (71-86°F). Use a plant mister to maintain a 50% humidity level, and place a humidity gauge for regular checks. Be cautious to avoid overheating near sunny windows or heaters.

Heating and Humidity

For tanks below the ideal temperature range, use a hot rock or electric heat-mat, but only heat one half of the tank to allow the spider to move to a warmer or cooler area. Use a heat mat during cooler months or during the spring and autumn seasons. Ensure the temperature doesn't exceed 30°C (86°F).

Feeding Your Tarantula

Tarantulas primarily feed on crickets, mealworms, beetles, locusts, cockroaches, and earthworms. Serve prey items less than half the size of the tarantula. Live prey is preferable, but dead food like thawed baby mice or 1 cm pieces of raw beef can be used. Feed young tarantulas daily, while adults can handle multiple prey items at a time.

Remember to remove uneaten live prey after each feeding to prevent them from bothering your tarantula or causing harm. Provide a chlorine-free water dish in the tank, ensuring it is chlorine-free and easy for your tarantula to access.

Handling Your Tarantula

While tarantulas are generally docile, they are vulnerable during their molting period. Avoid handling them during this time, as even a short fall could burst their abdomen and lead to death. Additionally, tarantulas can bite, causing swelling and allergic reactions. Handle tarantulas only with extreme caution, holding them gently on the palm of your hand and keeping it close to the ground.

Recognize signs of aggression, such as raised front legs and fangs, and avoid disturbing your tarantula during molting. If you handle your tarantula, do so gently and with care. In case of a bite, seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

Tarantulas make fascinating pets, but they require specific care and attention. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your tarantula thrives in its new home, enjoys a comfortable environment, and remains healthy for years to come.