10 Fun Facts About Tarantulas That Will Blow Your Mind

Tarantulas are one of the most misunderstood animals on the planet. People either fear them, think they’re dangerous, or assume they’re just creepy crawlies that hang out in horror movies. But here’s the thing—tarantulas are fascinating, ancient creatures that have evolved in some of the most extreme environments on Earth.

Whether you're already a keeper or just curious about these eight-legged wonders, here are 10 wild tarantula facts that might just change the way you see them.

1. They Can Regrow Legs

That’s right, if a tarantula loses a leg in a fight, a bad molt, or even a fall, they can grow it back. It’s not instant, but with each molt, the leg comes back a little more developed until it’s nearly indistinguishable from the original.

Watch a molting tarantula in action: https://youtu.be/R4miRWCAiTg

2. They Don’t Get Stuck in Their Own Webs

Unlike many other spiders, tarantulas have special chemical properties in their feet that keep them from getting stuck in their own silk. They can walk across their own webbing (or the webbing of a rival) without issue.

3. Some Can Live Over 30 Years

That’s not a typo. Female tarantulas from genera like Grammostola, Brachypelma, and Aphonopelma can live well past 25 years—and sometimes into their 30s. Meanwhile, males often only live a few years after maturing.

If you’re thinking of getting a pet tarantula, just know, it’s a long-term commitment.

4. They Breathe Through Book Lungs

Tarantulas don’t breathe like we do. They have what’s called book lungs, layered structures that look a lot like the pages of a book. Air moves through them in thin sheets, allowing oxygen to diffuse into the spider’s bloodstream.

5. They Flick Hairs as a Defense Mechanism

Some New World species (mostly from the Americas) have specialized hairs on their abdomen called urticating hairs. When threatened, they’ll use their back legs to kick clouds of these tiny barbed hairs into the air.

These hairs can cause itching, burning, and even serious eye irritation, so always take care when working near species like Brachypelma hamorii or Theraphosa blondi.

6. Some Tarantulas Can Swim

Believe it or not, there are reports—and even videos—of tarantulas swimming across puddles, streams, and even short distances in open water. Their bodies are hydrophobic enough to float, and their legs work kind of like oars.

No, they’re not winning Olympic medals, but it’s still impressive.

7. Their Fangs Move Up and Down

Unlike most spiders, which have side-to-side moving fangs, tarantulas’ fangs move vertically—up and down. They’re like twin daggers that stab downward into prey. It’s one of the things that separates mygalomorphs (like tarantulas) from araneomorphs (like jumping spiders or orb weavers).

8. Some Tarantulas Can Launch Poop as a Defense

Yep. It sounds ridiculous—but it’s true. A few arboreal species, like Poecilotheria regalis and Tapinauchenius sp., have been observed forcefully launching poop when threatened. It’s usually aimed at potential predators (or unlucky humans), and while it’s not dangerous, it’s definitely… unpleasant.

If you’ve ever opened an enclosure and ended up wiping spider poop off your glasses, you know what I mean.

9. Tarantulas Can Sense Vibrations from Far Away

Their entire bodies are built to feel the world around them. Tiny sensory hairs on their legs, body, and pedipalps can detect the faintest of vibrations. That’s how they know when prey is approaching—or when something much larger is stomping toward them.

So yes, they can feel your footsteps coming before you even open the enclosure.

10. They’re Everywhere (Almost)

Tarantulas are native to every continent except Antarctica. You’ll find them in the deserts of the American Southwest, the rainforests of Brazil, the mountains of India, and even the dry grasslands of Africa.

Wherever there’s heat and shelter, there’s probably a tarantula nearby.

Want to Learn More?

If you thought this list was cool, you’ll love diving deeper into tarantula care and natural history. I cover everything from beginner-friendly species to rare Old World giants on my YouTube channel and in detailed care guides.

Watch my video on the Top 5 Beginner Tarantulas: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Uuf10KnBxY

Explore care guides: https://www.thetarantulacollective.com/care-guides

Recommended Gear

Want to keep your own tarantula? Here’s what I recommend:

Tarantula Enclosures: https://www.tarantulacribs.com/?ref=TheTarantulaCollective or use code TTC10 to save 10%

Substrate & Bioactive Supplies: https://www.thebiodude.com/?dt_id=1400014

Buy Tarantulas: 

https://spidershoppe.com/r?id=6nup9f - Use this link for 10% off

What you need to know about Urticating Hairs

Understanding Urticating Hairs: A Hidden Defense in Tarantulas

As many of you know, tarantulas come in two main categories: New World and Old World species. New World tarantulas are found in the Americas, while Old World tarantulas inhabit places like Africa and Asia. While we often focus on venom when talking about tarantulas, it’s actually the urticating hairs—especially in New World species—that should be getting more attention.

New World vs. Old World: The Basics

Old World tarantulas tend to be more defensive, faster to flee, and quicker to posture up when threatened. They also lack urticating hairs, but in return, they typically have stronger venom. However, the idea that Old World species always have stronger venom than New World species isn't scientifically proven—most of what we know comes from anecdotal evidence.

On the other hand, New World tarantulas, while often less defensive, have one powerful weapon in their arsenal: urticating hairs. These hairs, which they can kick into the air, act as an incredibly effective defense mechanism. When a predator gets too close, they kick up these hairs into the air, which can temporarily blind and irritate attackers, making them think twice about getting any closer.

What Are Urticating Hairs?

Urticating hairs are tiny, barbed hairs that New World tarantulas use for self-defense. They are found on different parts of their body, most commonly on the abdomen, and can be released into the air as a cloud, or rubbed onto surfaces like burrows, webs, and egg sacs. These hairs are highly irritating to predators like birds, reptiles, and small mammals.

Interestingly, around 90% of New World tarantulas have these hairs, though some species like Psalmopeous are an exception. Not all urticating hairs are created equal. There are actually seven distinct types, each with unique characteristics, and they are often used to differentiate species from one another.

Types of Urticating Hairs

Type I: Small but effective, these hairs measure 0.2-0.6mm and are found in species like Nhandu, Proshapalopus, and Vitalious. They are great for kicking into the air or applying directly to webs for passive defense.

Type II: A little larger, these hairs measure 0.5-1.5mm and are found in species like Avicularia, Pachistopelma, and Iridopelma. These hairs aren't kicked into the air; instead, the tarantula rubs them onto the surface or the person they feel threatened by.

Type III: These are larger (0.3-1.8mm) and among the most irritating to humans and animals alike. Found in species like Nhandu and Brachypelma, they are highly effective when kicked into the air.

Type IV: These hairs are fine and small, usually around 0.06-0.2mm, and are embedded with a penetrating tip. They are found in species like Grammostola and Euathlus and are less irritating to humans, but still highly effective against smaller predators.

Type V: Short, light, and embedded in hair follicles, these hairs are unique to the Ephebopus genus. They don't penetrate the skin but can still cause irritation when in contact.

Type VI: Rare and found in the Hemirrhagus species, these hairs are also embedded in the hair follicle.

Type VII: The most recently discovered type of hair, described in 2016, these are exclusive to the Colombian Kankuamo tarantula and are equipped with reversed barbs for extra irritation.

The Irritating Effects of Urticating Hairs

If you've ever had urticating hairs come in contact with your skin, you know they can be extremely uncomfortable. While many people joke about the hairs or think they're no big deal, they can cause a variety of issues, from itching to rashes, bumps, and even blisters in some cases. For species with particularly strong hairs, such as the Theraphosa genus, the effects can last for days.

Personally, I find Theraphosa hairs to be the most irritating. I’ll often get small bumps on the affected area, and the itching can last for two or three days. That’s why I wear rubber dishwashing gloves whenever I handle species like Theraphosa to avoid any issues.

Building a Tolerance?

There’s a common myth that you can build up a tolerance to urticating hairs over time. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. The more you're exposed to them, the worse the reaction can get. In fact, I’ve spoken to people who can no longer even be in the same room with certain species because the discomfort has become intolerable. That’s why it’s so important to take precautions, even if you don’t feel much irritation at first.

Precautions and Prevention

If you're rehousing your tarantulas or interacting with them in any way, it’s essential to take the proper precautions to avoid getting urticating hairs on your skin or in your eyes. Some basic measures include wearing gloves, long sleeves, eye protection, and even a face mask for particularly hairy species. I always recommend washing your hands immediately after handling New World species to avoid transferring the hairs.

It’s also important to turn off any fans or close windows when working with species that are particularly prone to kicking up hairs. A fan can quickly blow the hairs onto you, which can turn a simple interaction into a very itchy situation.

Final Thoughts

While it’s easy to get caught up in the fascination with tarantula venom, the true danger often lies in those tiny, irritating hairs. If you're a tarantula keeper, it’s important to respect these creatures' defensive mechanisms and take proper precautions. Whether you're new to the hobby or a seasoned keeper, understanding urticating hairs and how to handle them can make your tarantula keeping experience much more enjoyable and comfortable.

TOP 10 Mistakes Keeping Tarantulas DON'T DO THIS!

Ornithoctoninae sp Veronica, Veronica Earth Tiger (female)

Common Tarantula Care Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Whether you're just starting out or you've been keeping tarantulas for a while, there's always room to grow and improve your care routine. The tarantula hobby is full of trial and error, and trust me, I’ve made a lot of mistakes along the way. But that’s part of the process! As we continue to learn, we adapt our methods to provide the best care for our eight-legged friends. Let’s go over the top 10 mistakes people commonly make when keeping tarantulas—and how to avoid them.

1. Putting a Sponge in the Water Dish

One of the most outdated pieces of advice I see time and time again is putting a sponge in your tarantula’s water dish. The problem? Tarantulas don’t really drink from sponges. It’s much easier for them to sip directly from a shallow water dish or even from droplets on their web or the side of their enclosure. Some keepers use sponges to prevent drowning, but this often results in mold and bacteria growth, which can be harmful to your tarantula.

Instead, just use a shallow ceramic or plastic dish and keep it filled with fresh water. Don’t worry about your tarantula drowning—they can float! If you're concerned about feeder crickets getting stuck, simply place some aquarium gravel in one corner of the dish to give them a way to escape.

2. Misting Every Day

Another common mistake is obsessing over humidity and misting your tarantula’s enclosure daily. While some species, like Theraphosa blondi or Avicularia, thrive in more humid conditions, most tarantulas don’t require daily misting. In fact, constant misting can lead to stagnant air, which can be dangerous, especially in species like Avicularia (where SADS—Sudden Avic Death Syndrome—has been linked to over-misting and poor ventilation).

Instead, focus on creating a well-ventilated enclosure with occasional misting when necessary. A large water dish will generally meet your tarantula’s hydration needs. And remember, humidity shouldn’t be your main focus—airflow is just as important.

3. Using Heat Rocks, Lamps, or Pads

This is a mistake I made early on with my first tarantula, a Grammostola rosea. I was advised to use a heat rock or heat lamp, which, like many new keepers, I assumed was essential. The reality is that tarantulas don’t need UVB lighting or specialized heat sources like reptiles.

Tarantulas are ectothermic, meaning they regulate their body temperature based on their environment. If the room temperature is between 68-76°F, they’re perfectly comfortable. Heat pads or lamps can actually stress your tarantula and cause fatal temperature fluctuations. Instead, it’s best to heat the room the tarantula is in, rather than the enclosure itself.

4. Placing Enclosures in Direct Sunlight

Setting up your tarantula’s enclosure near a window sounds harmless, but it can cause serious issues. Direct sunlight can create a greenhouse effect, causing the temperature inside the enclosure to spike. Exposure to temperatures over 90°F or 100°F for prolonged periods can be dangerous to your tarantula, and the humidity levels will also drop, leaving your tarantula with an uncomfortably dry environment.

Be mindful of the sun’s path throughout the day. Even if it isn’t directly shining on the enclosure in the morning, it could be by midday. Move your tarantula’s enclosure to a more stable spot, and consider using curtains or blinds to control the sunlight.

5. Poor Ventilation in Enclosures

One of the biggest pitfalls in tarantula husbandry is improper ventilation. This is especially true for DIY enclosures, like the popular Amac boxes. Cross ventilation—holes drilled on opposite sides of the enclosure—is key to keeping airflow moving and preventing mold buildup.

If you’re using a glass aquarium, you can improve ventilation by creating a barrier with acrylic or mesh to ensure air circulates properly. For tarantula slings, simply opening the lid periodically can provide enough air exchange. As they grow, though, ensure there’s adequate airflow to keep the environment safe and healthy.

By far the best enclosures I have found for keeping tarantulas are Tarantula Cribs. The enclosures are made specifically for tarantulas and provide optimal cross ventilation while maintaining humidity. You can check out the full line of Tarantula Cribs enclosures and save 10% on your purchases using my code TTC10 at checkout or by clicking HERE.

6. Using Mesh Lids

Many commercial enclosures come with fine mesh lids, which may work fine for reptiles, but not for tarantulas. A tarantula can easily get its leg stuck in these mesh holes, leading to injury or even death. I’ve seen this happen countless times, and it’s heartbreaking.

Instead, consider replacing the mesh with a solid piece of acrylic or plexiglass. Simply use silicone to secure it and drill a few ventilation holes for airflow. You can also puchase premade acrylic lids for enclosures from companies like Tarantula Cribs. Your tarantula will thank you!

7. Using the Wrong Substrate

For years, I used a variety of substrates, including ReptiBark and aquarium gravel, because I was told those were suitable for tarantulas decades ago. The reality is that not all substrates are ideal, and some—like wood chips—are more appropriate for reptiles than spiders.

I highly recommend Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude. It's specifically designed to mimic the natural environment of tarantulas, providing the ideal moisture levels, humidity, and texture. This substrate not only supports your tarantula’s burrowing instincts but also helps maintain a healthy microclimate in the enclosure. Terra Aranea is a fantastic, all-natural choice that will create a safe, comfortable home for your tarantula.

Other good choices are ReptiSoil or even Peat Moss. I suggest staying away from Coco Fiber because despite it being very cheap and readily available, it is more ideal for growing mushrooms than for tarantulas. It is very dusty, hydrophobic and prone to mold and fungi growth. It also does not hold burrows well and is pretty bland to look at. Coco fiber can be a great ingredient in DIY substrates when mixed with peat moss, optting soil (with no fertilizer or pesticides) and a little sand.

8. Overfeeding

While it’s easy to fall into the habit of feeding your tarantula too often, this is a mistake many new keepers make. Tarantulas are opportunistic feeders and do not require food every day. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, especially in adult tarantulas, and may cause issues like abdominal rupture or problems during molting.

A good feeding schedule is to feed slings every 3-4 days, juveniles once a week, and adults every 10-14 days. If your tarantula doesn’t seem interested in food, don’t worry—it’s normal for them to go without eating for weeks or even months.

9. Feeding During Premolt

It’s tempting to offer food to a tarantula that isn’t eating, but try not to disturb them during premolt. Dropping crickets into the enclosure and leaving them can lead to dangerous situations, especially if the tarantula molts while the prey is still in there.

When a tarantula molts, it’s very vulnerable. The molting process can take hours, and during that time, the tarantula is soft and sluggish. If crickets are left in the enclosure, they can harm the molting tarantula. Always remove uneaten food after 24 hours to avoid this.

10. Disturbing During Molting

Molting is one of the most vulnerable times for a tarantula. During this process, your tarantula will shed its exoskeleton and grow into a new one. The process can take several hours or even a full day, and your tarantula is extremely fragile during this time. Disturbing a tarantula during its molt can cause severe injury or even death.

If you see your tarantula on its back, do not disturb it! Keep the enclosure undisturbed and avoid handling or checking on the spider unless it’s absolutely necessary. Some tarantulas may molt more successfully in private, so it’s best to give them the space they need. Once the molt is complete, allow your tarantula time to harden its new exoskeleton before resuming normal care.

Conclusion

These are the top 10 mistakes that I’ve either made or seen firsthand in the tarantula hobby. The important thing is to recognize when we’ve made a mistake and adjust our care routines accordingly. If you've made any of these mistakes, don’t stress—just tweak your methods and keep learning. The more we grow as hobbyists, the better we can provide the care our tarantulas deserve. Happy keeping!

How Tarantulas Get Their Scientific Names?

If you’ve ever kept tarantulas—or even just browsed for one online—you’ve probably noticed those long, often hard-to-pronounce scientific names. Ever wondered how tarantulas actually get these names? It’s a process rooted in science, history, and a little bit of detective work. Today, we’re going to break it all down and take a closer look at how scientists classify and name these incredible spiders.

What Family Do Tarantulas Belong To?

Tarantulas are part of the Theraphosidae family, a group of large, often hairy spiders found across the globe. There are over 1,000 recognized species of tarantulas, each with its own unique traits, behaviors, and habitats. But before a tarantula can officially get a name and take its place in the scientific record, arachnologists have to follow a standardized naming process called binomial nomenclature.

What Is Binomial Nomenclature?

Binomial nomenclature is the universal system scientists use to name all living organisms—from tarantulas to tigers to trees. This system was created in the 1700s by Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus, and it’s still the foundation of modern taxonomy today.

 Each species gets two names:

   The genus, which groups together closely related species.

   The species, which identifies the individual species within that genus.

For example, the iconic Mexican Redknee Tarantula is scientifically known as Brachypelma hamorii.

Brachypelma is the genus (a group of closely related tarantulas).

hamorii is the species (the specific type of tarantula within the Brachypelma genus).

By convention, the genus name is capitalized, while the species name is written in lowercase. Both should be italicized in formal writing.

What Do Scientific Names Mean?

Scientific names often come from Latin or Greek roots that describe the spider’s appearance, behavior, or habitat. For example, Brachypelma translates roughly to "short leg," which reflects some physical characteristics.

However, not all names are strictly Latin or Greek. In some cases, the name reflects the local language or culture where the species was discovered. A great example is the genus Tliltocatl, derived from the Nahuatl words tlil (meaning "black") and tocatl (meaning "spider"). This name honors the tarantula’s indigenous roots in Mexico.

How Are New Tarantula Species Named?

When a new tarantula species is discovered, the process of naming it is more complex than just picking something that sounds cool. Arachnologists follow a detailed process:

   Observation and Documentation

     Scientists study the tarantula's physical features—its size, coloration, leg structure, eye arrangement, and even its spinnerets. They also note its behavior, habitat, and geographic range.

  Comparing to Existing Species

    The new specimen is compared to previously described species in taxonomic databases and literature to ensure it isn’t already known under a different name.

  Choosing a Unique Name

    The new species needs a scientific name that hasn’t already been used. Sometimes the species name honors a person (like a scientist or local guide), reflects where it was found, or describes a distinctive feature.

  Publishing and Peer Review

    The scientist submits their research to a scientific journal, where other experts review and verify the discovery. If accepted, the name becomes official and is added to the taxonomic record.

What About Tarantulas Without Species Names?

Sometimes you’ll see tarantulas labeled with just a genus and sp. (short for species), like Brachypelma sp. This indicates that the tarantula hasn’t been formally described yet, or the species is still being debated within the scientific community. This happens when:

• There isn’t enough data to confidently classify the tarantula.

• Populations show unique traits but not enough to warrant full species status.

• Experts disagree on whether a population is its own species or just a regional variant of an existing one.

This is also how subspecies are sometimes handled. A tarantula population might look a little different due to geographic isolation or environmental adaptation, but not different enough to be considered a whole new species. In these cases, scientists might classify them as subspecies instead.

What’s the Deal with Reclassification?

Tarantula classification isn’t set in stone—it evolves as new research comes out. Advances in DNA analysis are helping scientists get a clearer picture of relationships between species, sometimes confirming or overturning older classifications.

A perfect example is Avicularia avicularia. At one point, this species was split into several different species, but later research revealed they were all part of the same species—just different morph types. This led to a reclassification, collapsing all those separate species back into one, Avicularia avicularia.

What About Crossbreeding?

In general, different species can’t successfully breed with each other. However, closely related species—or subspecies—sometimes can. That’s why in the hobby, responsible breeders avoid intentionally cross breeding species. Keeping their bloodlines pure helps preserve the genetic integrity of each species and avoids creating hybrids that could muddy future research.

Are Tarantulas Renamed for Fame?

Let’s clear up a common misconception—scientists don’t rename tarantulas just for clout. Sure, getting a species named after you is a cool honor, but reclassification is driven by science, not ego.

Taxonomists only rename or revise species when new evidence (like DNA sequencing or more thorough comparisons) shows the old classification was incorrect or incomplete. Every reclassification goes through peer review—it’s not something one scientist can just decide on a whim. Typically if a tarantula is named after an individual, it is done to honor their contributions to the ongoing research. 

Why Use Binomial Names Instead of Common Names?

Now, you might be thinking, “Why not just stick with the common names? They're way easier to say and remember!” And I get it. Common names like "Mexican Redknee" or "Pinktoe" are familiar, but there’s a big catch—they can be super confusing.

Take "Redknee," for example. That name gets tossed around for several different species, as well as similar names like Redleg, Bloodleg, Fire knee, Flame Knee, etc. So if we were just throwing around common names all the time, there’s a chance we’d end up talking about completely different tarantulas than what we intended, especially since they sometimes look very similar. I have made a video on this topic as it relates to a lot of confusion surrounding red tarantulas from Mexico. Not only are many of the common names very similar for different species, but there are some tarantulas with the same common name that are from completely different genera. You can watch that video here. At any rate, that’s why we use binomial names—that fancy two-part Latin system. 

Here’s why it’s so important:

  No More Confusion

Binomial names are unique to each species. So, when you say Brachypelma hamorii (Mexican Redknee), there’s no question about which tarantula you’re talking about. Compare that to common names—there’s “Redknee” for one species, and “Redknee” for another. The scientific name ensures we’re all on the same page, no matter where we’re from.

  Worldwide Standard

Here’s the cool thing: binomial names are universal. Whether you’re talking to someone in the U.S., Europe, Asia, or even Australia, if you use the scientific name, everyone knows exactly what you mean. No need to worry about translation issues or regional names—this system works everywhere.

Goodbye to Regional Confusion

In some places, a single tarantula might be known by a bunch of different common names. For example, the Grammostola rosea gets called everything from “Rose Hair” to “Chilean Rosehair” to “Chilean Rose” to “Rosies” and even “Chilean Fire.” If you’re talking with someone from a different part of the world, all those names can get mixed up. But when you say Grammostola rosea, it’s crystal clear which species you're referring to.

Clear Communication in the Community

For researchers, breeders, or anyone deep into the tarantula world, accurate names are key. Binomial names make it super easy to track, study, and compare different species. No more guessing or misunderstandings. Whether you’re chatting with a fellow hobbyist or sharing findings with the scientific community, these names are a universally recognized way to communicate.

Keeping Up with New Discoveries

Tarantula classification isn’t static. As scientists learn more and more—especially with DNA research—they’re constantly reclassifying species or even discovering new ones. Binomial names evolve along with these discoveries. So, using them ensures we’re always on the same page with the latest research.

Final Thoughts

The process of naming tarantulas is part science, part history, and part detective work. It’s a collaborative effort that helps scientists around the world communicate clearly, avoid confusion, and better understand these fascinating animals. And as our tools and knowledge improve, you can bet the names and classifications will continue to evolve.

So the next time you’re struggling to pronounce something like Tliltocatl albopilosus, just remember—you’re speaking the universal language of science!