Never keep two tarantulas in the same cage, because they are territorial cannibals. One of them will eat the other. [2] X Research source
If you are worried about the tarantula escaping through the top of the tank, you can place a rock on the lid. If you are housing tree-dwelling tarantulas, you’ll want to place the tank vertically. You would start it horizontally and if they like living up high make it vertical. Any extra vertical room poses a threat to burrowing species because they are more susceptible to injuries from falling, unlike arboreal species.
There are many substrates to choose from, such as coconut fiber, reptile bark, sphagnum moss, peat moss, sterilized potting soil, and vermiculite. If you choose peat moss, you need to sterilize it. Put it in the microwave for ten minutes in order to kill parasitic mites. If you don’t have a microwave use the oven on a mid heat. [5] X Research source Since some species will dig into the substrate, you might need up to 5 inches (12. 7 centimeters) of substrate.
A great hiding place is a hollowed log. Pick a hollowed log that is already dried out, since a wet log could lead to mold issues in the terrarium. [7] X Research source You should avoid inserting any sharp objects into the terrarium, since your tarantula could injure itself.
Tree-dwelling tarantulas have slightly longer legs, which include more surface area for climbing. Ground dwelling species should be discouraged from climbing, since they could easily fall and injure themselves. Remember, the more you put in, the more you will have to clean. A piece of store bought driftwood might be appreciated.
Avoid placing your tank near a sunny window, since the tank could easily overheat. If the tank is located in a centrally heated room that is within the ideal temperature range, you won’t need to heat it. [11] X Research source
You should avoid letting the tank temperature exceed 30 Celsius (86 Fahrenheit). If you turn the heat off in the spring or autumn, you will need to use the heat mat during those months. If you maintain a cooler temperature during the winter months, you should use a heat-mat.
Check the contents of the tank to make sure there is no mold.
Don’t serve them prey items that are larger than the size of their abdomens. [14] X Research source Tarantulas are opportunists, so they may be able to subdue small lizards, snakes, and mice. Roaches have to be ordered online and a colony started to ensure a constant supply.
Since they are nocturnal animals, you’ll want to feed them at night. [17] X Research source
Feed an adult Grammostola porteri or rosea tarantula four to five crickets per month. Feed an adult Theraphosa or Pamphobeteus tarantula four or five crickets twice per week. Feed tropical tarantulas larger and more frequent meals, including Therophosa, Phormictopus, Pamphobeteus, Acanthoscurria, and Nhandu tarantulas. Feed an adult Pamphobeteus five crickets and one cockroach per week.
Don’t confuse molting with death. A dead tarantula will not lie on its back. If your tarantula is very sick or dying, it will do a death curl. It will curl its legs underneath itself in an awkward position. [21] X Research source
If you are adding a water dish for a tree-dwelling tarantula, you should place it about two thirds of the way up the side of the tank so that it is convenient for your tarantula. Put it close to the door of the terrarium, so you can fill it up. You can glue it to the side of the tank with an aquarium silicone sealant. [24] X Research source You can give your tarantula bottled water or water that has been filtered to remove chlorine. [25] X Research source {“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/thumb/f/f2/Care-for-a-Tarantula-Step-16. jpg/v4-460px-Care-for-a-Tarantula-Step-16. jpg”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/f/f2/Care-for-a-Tarantula-Step-16. jpg/aid28059-v4-728px-Care-for-a-Tarantula-Step-16. jpg",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:345,“bigWidth”:728,“bigHeight”:546,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">
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Young tarantulas molt once per month, while adult tarantulas will molt every year or two. During this time, don’t alter the tank or feed it live prey. [28] X Research source It’s normal for your tarantula to lie on its back during molting. If you decide to handle your tarantula, you need to exercise extreme caution. Hold it on the palm of your hand and keep your hand at a very low height. [29] X Research source
A tarantula bite will cause swelling, redness, and mild pain. If bitten by a tarantula, you may experience nausea and fever. If you are bitten by your tarantula, call a medical doctor as soon as you can.
