The Tarantula:
Our Friendly Giant
Although tarantulas may look scary and dangerous, they are of little medical importance to humans. Western hemisphere tarantulas have a low toxicity; meaning they are not a poisonous species. A few Asian species may produce some pain at the time of bite. Tarantulas main form of defense is not venom, but it is urticating hairs. Tarantulas subdue their prey by crushing the prey with their chelicerae. In terms of prey, venom is not a significant component.
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Female TarantulasFemale tarantulas tend to stay near the burrow. Females also live longer than male tarantulas.
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Male TarantulasWhen a male tarantula becomes sexually mature, they wander in order to find a female to mate with.
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Tarantulas as Pets
Tarantulas are often cared for as pets. Be sure to set up a safe home habitat for the tarantula. Tarantulas can be somewhat of escape artists, so be sure the tank is secure. When handling the pet, the best way to pick the tarantula up is between the second and third legs, using your thumb and forefinger. Insects are the most common food source for domestic tarantulas. The spider will usually require one or two crickets a week; however, some of the larger species may require more.