FAQ

Here are some questions that I get asked frequently.

Can a tarantula be de~fanged or de~venomized?

No, this is absolutely NOT possible. Tarantulas eat with their fangs, so to take their fangs away would be like sealing your mouth up forever. De~venomizing would be impossible as well, as they kill their prey with their venom and they couldn't survive without it.

Can a tarantula kill my dog or cat?

Yes, tarantula venom is much more toxic to cats and dogs than it is to humans. If your cat or dog has been bitten, seek medical attention immediately.

How long do tarantulas live?

I had a tarantula that lived to be 28 years old. She was a b. smithi and she lived a good long life. Most females live to be 20+ years, while most males usually only make it to be 5 or 6 years old.

Are tarantulas poisonous?

Poisonous, No. Venomous, Yes. Tarantulas carry venom which is toxic to small mammals and insects. They are not poisonous.

Won't I die if I get bit?

No, however if you suffer an allergic reaction to a tarantula bite, you will need to seek medical attention immediately.

How come all of your tarantulas live separately?

Tarantulas are very territorial and will kill each other if kept together. While some certain species are considered to be "communal" and can live together, most species only pair to mate.

Do you breed tarantulas?

I do not. I have owned tarantulas for many years, but have never had the urge to breed.

Im looking for a specific kind of tarantula...where should I look?

There are so many places to buy tarantulas and other arachnids. The most common place nowadays would probably be online. Some local pet stores may sell certain species, but if you have your heart set on a more rare type, an exotic animal expo, reptile show, or online may be your best bet.

Why is there a big bald spot on that tarantulas butt?

Some species of tarantula possess ultriculating hairs on their abdomens. They kick these hairs as a defense and between molts, the hairs become thinner and thinner leaving a bald spot on the abdomen. This spot goes away when the tarantula molts.

How big is the biggest tarantula?

I think the birdeater species are the largest. My L. Parahybana (Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater) has a 9.5" legspan.

Why is that tarantula upside down?

Its molting, or shedding its exoskeleton. Tarantulas and other arachnids do this in order to grow. Don't worry, its not dead.

Won't your tarantulas drown in those water dishes?

No. Tarantulas have book lungs located on the undersides of their abdomens. Unless they are flat in the water dish, they are just fine.