How to Take Care of a Goliath Pink Foot Tarantula

Despite their impressive size ̵1; an adult can reach 13 inches ̵1; and formidable appearance, goliath pink foot tarantulas are not exceptionally aggressive. They are, however, skittish, preferring to be left in peace. Pink foot goliath tarantulas react nervously to the approach of larger animals and may fire irritating hairs. As a result, they do not make suitable pets for beginners and certainly not for children. Experienced arachnid enthusiasts, on the other hand, should appreciate the species.

  1. Tank Set-Up and Accessories

    • Pink foot goliath tarantulas need a large tank of 20 gallons or larger. Lay 6 inches of chemical-free potting compost in the bottom, because this is a burrowing species. Also include a large piece of cork bark, available from pet stores, along with a shallow water bowl. Other decorations, such as pieces of driftwood are optional. They make the tank more aesthetically appealing but the tarantula won̵7;t mind one way or the other.

    Environmental Conditions

    • Pink foot goliath tarantulas have adapted to humid, tropical conditions and eed a similar environment in captivity. Measure the temperature and humidity of the tank before acquiring the tarantula. They should be about 80 degrees and 74 to 80 percent respective humidity. Raise the humidity by misting the tank and the compost and the temperature by placing a reptile heat mat underneath one end of the tank and adjusting the thermostat.

    Introducing the Tarantula

    • Put on work gloves before touching the tarantula. Place the box with the tarantula in the tank, remove the lid and let the spider emerge on its own. When you need to move the tarantula in the future, use a plastic tub and a sheet of cardboard to quietly catch it. Never handle a pink foot goliath with your bare hands. They are semi-aggressive and can be dangerous.

    Maintenance

    • Mist the tank periodically to maintain the right humidity and change the water daily. Feed the tarantula live insects, such as crickets and roaches, a couple of times a week. The tank only needs cleaning a couple of times a year because tarantulas produce very little waste. Transfer the tarantula to a cardboard or plastic box with air holes, dispose of the compost, wipe the tank down with dishwashing soap and hot water, rinse the tank to remove all traces of the cleaner, dry the tank, add new substrate and replace the tarantula and water bowl.

    Precautions

    • Never feed your tarantula live insects when it is molting or for several days afterward. Tarantulas are vulnerable at this time and an insect could seriously damage it. Because spiders are sensitive to pollution of any sort, use dechlorinated water or spring water in the water bowl and for misting the tank. You can dechlorinate tap water by leaving it in a bucket for 24 hours. Always acquire captive-bred pink foot goliath tarantulas, not wild-caught individuals. This species is endangered, partly because of the exotic pet trade.