How to Care for Tarantula Spiders

Many species of tarantula make relatively undemanding pets. Their habitat needs are not complicated, they make very little mess and their insect diet is straightforward to provide. Not all tarantulas are the same and each species needs a specific temperature and level of humidity. Personalities also vary, with some species, such as the greenbottle blue tarantula, being very feisty and others only attacking if badly provoked. Among the peaceful species are the Chilean rose tarantula, the red rump tarantula and the white collared tarantula.

Things You'll Need

  • 10-gallon tank with a screen cover
  • Substrate
  • Cork bark
  • Plant pot
  • Thermometer and hygrometer
  • Plant mister
  • Heat mat
  • Shallow dish
  • Live food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay 2 or 3 inches of a suitable substrate, such as peat-free potting compost or bark chippings, in the tank. Some species like to burrow, and should have a deeper layer.

    • 2

      Provide a hiding place. A large piece of bark, a clay plant pot or a custom tarantula shelter from a pet store gives the spider somewhere to shelter

    • 3

      Add a shallow water dish to the tank.

    • 4

      Monitor the temperature and humidity in the tank and adjust according to the needs of the species. Many species are fine at room temperature, but if the temperature is too cold, provide warmth with a reptile heat mat underneath one end of the tank. Raise the humidity with a plant mister if necessary.

    • 5

      Feed the tarantula a variety of live insects, such as crickets, locusts or roaches. The age and species of the tarantula determine how much food it needs. A few prey items two or three times a week is often sufficient.

    • 6

      Clean the tank completely two or three times a year. Wipe down with hot water and replace the substrate. Tarantulas produce very little waste and the tank does not need cleaned very often.