Tarantula
Various
🌍 Overview
Tarantulas are the largest spiders on Earth, with over 900 recognized species found on every continent except Antarctica. New World species (Americas) are generally docile with mild venom; Old World species (Africa, Asia) are faster, more defensive, and pack a medically significant bite. All tarantulas are fascinating, low-maintenance pets that require minimal daily care and offer a unique window into spider behavior and biology.
📋 Quick Facts
Native Range
Worldwide (tropics and subtropics); diverse origins by species
Natural Habitat
Varies by species - desert, grassland, tropical rainforest, and arboreal canopy
Adult Size
2-12 inch leg span depending on species
Wild Diet
Insects, small lizards, frogs, mice, and birds (large species)
Wild Lifespan
5-30 years; females live far longer than males
Conservation Status
Varies; many species listed in Appendix II (CITES); some Endangered
⚖️ Compare
Tarantula
Human
Adult Size
2-12 inch leg span depending on species
5-6 feet (150-185 cm); ~135-200 lbs
Wild Lifespan
5-30 years; females live far longer than males
~73 years (global average)
Wild Diet
Insects, small lizards, frogs, mice, and birds (large species)
Omnivorous - eats just about anything
Native Range
Worldwide (tropics and subtropics); diverse origins by species
Global - originated in Africa roughly 300,000 years ago
Natural Habitat
Varies by species - desert, grassland, tropical rainforest, and arboreal canopy
Everywhere from arctic tundra to tropical megacities
Conservation Status
Varies; many species listed in Appendix II (CITES); some Endangered
Least Concern (8+ billion and counting)
🧠 Test Yourself
What's the Tarantula's native range?
⚖️ Where it is legal
8 US jurisdictions restrict this species, from outright bans to permits. Every one quotes the rule it comes from.
Subscribe - it's free
New animal facts and care guides straight to your inbox. No spam. 🐾
📰 Deep Dive
🕷️ Invertebrate Molting 101: What's Normal Across Tarantulas, Hermit Crabs, and Jumping Spiders
🕷️ How Much Does a Tarantula Really Cost?
🕷️ Should You Handle a Tarantula? Almost Always, No
🕷️ Common Tarantula Health Issues (Prevention Matters More Than Treatment)
🕷️ Tarantula Enclosure Setup: Shape, Substrate, and a Humidity Debate
🕷️ Tarantula Feeding: Schedule, Diet, and Why They Stop Eating
🤓 Did You Know?
Tarantulas can live extraordinarily long lives. Females of some species (like the Mexican Red Knee) can live 25 to 30 years in captivity, while males typically live only 5 to 7 years. A female tarantula may outlive your dog.
Explore More