Tarantulas are a low maintenance pet, with their lifespan of up to 20 years+. They are the perfect self-sufficient long term companion. Most tarantulas inhabit woodlands and forests of eastern and northern Australia. They are a burrowing species, digging underground and creating webbing throughout their environment. With many species growing up to 3-8 cm in body length. It is important to know that this is not a pet for everyone, they have delicate bodies and large fangs, making them an observation pet only and handling is something that should be avoided.
Enclosure size 30 cm x 30 cm x 30 cm terrarium is a minimum requirement, ideal terrarium material include glass or plastic with a secure, ventilated lid. For substrate coconut fiber, peat moss, or a mix of organic soil and sand is ideal with the substrate kept 5 to 8 cm deep.
Temperature should be maintained between 21 to 25°C while humidity levels should be kept at around 50-60%, this can be done by misting the enclosure lightly daily or using a humidity gauge to monitor levels. If a heat mat is used to maintain climate, we recommend keeping on the one side of the enclosure rather than the base.
Lighting should be provided on a 12 hour day / night cycle. No special UV lighting is required, but ensure the enclosure is not in direct sunlight to avoid overheating.
Hides and decor include bark, cork rounds, or tubes, and fake or real plants to provide hiding spots. Ensure there are plenty of vertical surfaces for climbing, as huntsman spiders are arboreal.
Diet is primarily live insects such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms, generally, 1/3 of the size of your spider are an ideal size. Juveniles should be fed every 2 to 3 days and adults once or twice a week, it is important to remove all uneaten prey after 24 hours to prevent stress or injury to the spider.
Water is essential for tarantulas, you can offer them a moist sponge within a dish for water. Ensure this dish is shallow to prevent drowning. Providing water can also assist with humidity levels within the enclosure.
Cleaning the enclosure includes spot cleans regularly, removing any uneaten prey and waste. While a full clean should be undertaken every few months, replacing the substrate and thoroughly washing the enclosure and decor.
Molting will occur regularly and decrease with maturity. Common signs include; darken complexion, reduced activity, refusal to eat, and webbing in a secluded area. It is important to not disturb during molting, and ensure high humidity to aid in the process.
Where to buy: available now as our tarantulas for sale Sydney in our Petsville store 684 botany rd Alexandria.
