Being the largest spider species, the goliath bird-eating tarantula measures around 10 to 11 inches across. This magnificent, hairy, and coffee-colored creature is rarely bred, and its bulk prevents it from climbing well. Since the goliath birdeater is not the friendliest animal and gets aggressive, it is better to house them alone.
When this tarantula species feels threatened, it makes a hissing sound that can be heard even 15 feet away. They reside within the deep rainforests located in northern South America. You can visit sites like https://www.topflightdubia.com/goliath-birdeater-tarantula-care to learn more about this fascinating creature that does not eat birds as frequently, despite its name.
Fun Facts
The goliath birdeater weighs up to six ounces and is considered the king of spiders. Listed here are some interesting facts about this massive tarantula:
- Even with eight eyes, their visibility is poor, and they sense vibrations using the hair on their body.
- Pregnant female egg sacs resemble a tennis ball containing approximately 70 spiderlings.
- Mostly active at night.
- The lifespan of females exceeds their male counterparts by at least 14 years, if not more.
- Spiders cannot ingest solid material, which explains why they liquefy their prey’s insides.
- Goliath tarantulas use their harpoon-shaped hair equipped with stinging barbs as a weapon.
- They do not spin webs to trap prey and satisfy their hunger.
- A goliath sting proves fatal for small creatures but not for humans.
Care Guidelines
When you bring a goliath birdeater home, you must handle the tarantula with caution, feed it well, and create an appropriate habitat that you maintain regularly. Here are the essential care guidelines for this giant beast:
Housing
A larger enclosure made of plastic or glass with a 20 gallons capacity is recommended for goliath tarantulas. Ensure you place a secure lid with sufficient ventilation exclusively for this species.
On the floor of their habitat lay at least a six-inch thick substrate layer made from peat moss or mulch. This provision allows the spider to bury itself entirely. Tarantulas also look for hiding places, which artificial flower pots and logs provide. Goliaths prefer dark living conditions with minimal or no lighting.
Nutrition
Invertebrates like live cockroaches and crickets constitute a giant tarantula’s main diet. Feed them with larger prey like mice around once a month but, avoid leaving live food unattended inside their enclosure.
When still alive and left to coexist with your pet tarantula, uneaten prey can harm the latter. Your spider refusing to eat indicates that the molting process is on wherein they shed their old exoskeleton to make way for a new one. Always place a shallow dish with clean water in their enclosure as they need constant hydration.
Maintenance Routine
Experts elaborate on maintaining ideal conditions within their enclosures. You need to monitor the habitat’s temperature and humidity levels.
A Fahrenheit temperature of around 78 and 82 degrees and 80 percent humidity is ideal for them. Weekly misting using purified water helps replicate their tropical environment. Keep in mind that while molting, goliaths demand plenty of moisture.
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