Tarantulas are docile and relatively easy to care for which makes them an ideal pet for beginner arachnid enthusiasts. These spiders are relatively small, typically growing to be only a few inches in length, and can easily be kept in a terrarium or aquarium. They are nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night and can be observed during the day when they are resting. Tarantulas eat a variety of insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and other small insects, making them easy to feed. In this blog you will learn about most docile tarantulas.
Tarantulas are generally low-maintenance pets, requiring minimal care and attention. They do best in a terrarium or aquarium that is well-ventilated and warm, usually between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to provide your tarantula with an adequate hiding space and some places to climb, such as branches, rocks, or pieces of wood.
Tarantulas also require a source of moisture, such as a shallow water dish or a moist substrate, to keep their bodies hydrated. Tarantulas make excellent pets due to their docile nature, relatively low maintenance, and interesting behaviors. They are fascinating to watch and can provide hours of entertainment as they explore their enclosure. Although they are not cuddly creatures, they can still be handled, though it is important to do so carefully, as they can bite if they feel threatened. With the right care and attention, tarantulas can provide a rewarding and enjoyable experience for those looking to keep an exotic pet.
Commonly Found Docile Tarantulas
Mexican Redknee
The Mexican Redknee Tarantula is a docile species that is often kept as a pet. This species is native to the states of Jalisco, Michoacan, and Guerrero in Mexico. They have a distinctive black and yellow striped pattern on their legs and abdomen. The Mexican Redknee Tarantula is a terrestrial species and will burrow in the substrate of its enclosure. They are a slow-moving species, so they are well-suited for first-time tarantula keepers.
Chilean Rose
The Chilean Rose Tarantula is also a docile species that are popularly kept as a pet. This species is native to the mountains of Chile and Argentina. They are also known for their beautiful pink and brown coloration. The Chilean Rose Tarantula is a terrestrial species and will burrow in the substrate of its enclosure. They are a slow-moving species with a calm demeanor, making them a great choice for beginner tarantula keepers.
Brazilian Black and White
The Brazilian Black and White Tarantula is another docile species that is often kept as a pet. This species is native to the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, and Paraná in Brazil. They have a unique black-and-white coloration that sets them apart from other tarantula species. The Brazilian Black and White Tarantula is a terrestrial species and will burrow in the substrate of its enclosure. They are a slow-moving species with a gentle temperament, making them a great choice for first-time tarantula keepers.
Less Commonly Found Docile Tarantulas
Venezuelan Sun Tiger
The Venezuelan Sun Tiger is a docile tarantula species native to Venezuela. It is an attractive tarantula with a yellow-brown coloration and orange stripes running down its back. It has a somewhat flattened body and can reach up to 8 inches in length. The Venezuelan Sun Tiger is a ground dweller which makes it an ideal tarantula for both beginner and advanced keepers. It is a hardy species that can easily adapt to a variety of conditions and is not afraid of interaction with its keeper.
Malaysian Earth Tiger
The Malaysian Earth Tiger is a docile tarantula species native to Malaysia. It is a large tarantula species with a body length of up to 8 inches and a leg span of up to 10 inches. The Malaysian Earth Tiger is a ground dweller and prefers to hide in burrows or under rocks. This species is a hardy species and is not prone to stress. It is a good choice for beginner and advanced keepers alike.
Costa Rican Zebra
The Costa Rican Zebra is a docile tarantula species native to Costa Rica. It is a large tarantula species with a body length of up to 8 inches and a leg span of up to 12 inches. It has a black body with white stripes running down its back, giving it a zebra-like appearance. This species is a ground dweller and prefers to hide in burrows or under rocks. The Costa Rican Zebra is a hardy species and is not prone to stress. It is an ideal tarantula for both beginner and advanced keepers.
Care for Docile Tarantulas
Housing
For docile tarantulas, a simple enclosure will do. Aquariums or plastic boxes with secure lids are ideal. Make sure to include a layer of the substrate such as peat moss, coco fiber, or soil for the tarantula to burrow into. Provide pieces of bark or hides for them to hide in and a shallow water dish for them to drink from. Be sure to keep the enclosure humid, but not too wet, as too much moisture can cause fungal growth and other health issues.
Feeding:
Docile tarantulas will mostly feed on crickets, mealworms, and other insects. Be sure to provide food that is approximately the same size as the tarantula’s abdomen. Offer food about once a week and remove any uneaten prey after 24 hours to prevent a buildup of bacteria.
Handling
Docile tarantulas should only be handled with caution and care. When handling, use a pair of tweezers or a soft brush to pick them up and make sure to support their body and legs. If the tarantula feels threatened, it may kick hairs which can potentially cause irritation to the skin. If you do choose to handle your tarantula often, it is best to wear gloves to protect your skin.
Benefits of owning these tarantulas
Owning tarantulas can be a very rewarding experience. There are many benefits to owning these interesting animals. Firstly, tarantulas are relatively easy to care for, as they require minimal time and effort to maintain. They are also great to observe, as they have very distinct and unique behaviors.
Secondly, tarantulas can be a great conversation starter, as they are often a source of intrigue and fascination for both adults and children.
Thirdly, owning tarantulas can be a great educational experience as they are often a great way to learn more about spiders and arthropods in general. They can also provide a great opportunity to learn about different habitats and their ecosystems. Additionally, tarantulas can help promote a greater appreciation for the natural world, as well as provide an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and diversity of nature.
Difficulties of owning docile tarantulas
Owning docile tarantulas can be quite a rewarding, yet challenging experience. To ensure the safety and well-being of your pet, there are several difficulties that must be taken into consideration. The first challenge of owning docile tarantulas is providing a suitable habitat. The environment needs to be able to maintain a constant temperature, as well as offer security and humidity levels that are ideal for the tarantula. Furthermore, the enclosure should provide a place for the tarantula to hide and feel safe and also have plenty of space to move around and explore.
The complexity and size of the enclosure will depend on the type of tarantula you own, as some species require more space than others. Another difficulty of owning docile tarantulas is their dietary needs. Tarantulas require a variety of food sources, such as crickets, mealworms, and cockroaches. Furthermore, the frequency of feeding will vary based on the species and age of the tarantula, as some require more regular meals than others. If the tarantula is not receiving the proper nutrition, it can become weak and ill, leading to a shortened lifespan.
Conclusion
Lastly, docile tarantulas require regular handling and maintenance. Although these tarantulas are generally considered to be docile, they can still be easily startled and can bite if provoked. It is important to be gentle and slow when handling your pet, as some tarantulas can be skittish and can be easily stressed out. Furthermore, the enclosure needs to be cleaned regularly to maintain the health and hygiene of the pet. Overall, despite the difficulties of owning docile tarantulas, it can be a rewarding experience if the proper care is provided. With patience and dedication, you can ensure the health and well-being of your tarantula, and create a successful and lasting bond between you and your pet.
Colombian Lasserblack Tarantula
Care Sheet of old world tarantulas for beginners
