Q&A for How to Pick up a Tarantula

No, their venom isn't strong enough to kill a human. The bite will cause pain and swelling, however, much like a bee sting.

It depends on the species. Most species reach adulthood around 5 years old, and others around 10 years old. After reaching adulthood, a male tarantula will usually live another 1-2 years, but a female tarantula can live much longer, even up to 40 years or so.

I wouldn't suggest stroking them, since they're very fragile and even the slightest pressure can rupture their abdomen.

A tarantula will raise its front legs as a warning it is about to bite, or raise its abdomen while facing away as a warning it is about to shed uricating hairs. If you see your tarantula doing either of these, leave it be and just observe it instead.

It depends on what species you have. If it's a new world (from the Americas), you can, but always test your tarantula's mood with a small paint brush beforehand. Bare in mind that every tarantula has a different personality than yours; even though the breed description says it's docile, may not be. It's also worth mentioning that the vast majority of the tarantula keeping community do not agree with handling, as it puts you and the animal at unnecessary risk. These animals do not learn to like being handled, and gain nothing from the experience.

Tarantulas eat crickets, mealworms, superworms, hornworms, and flightless fruit flies. They can also have waxworms for a fat supplement.

Female tarantulas can live up to 40 years, while male tarantulas only live up to ten years. Most common tarantulas are not illegal to have as pets.

Unless you are an expert, yes, you should wear gloves.

Yes! Well, actually, it depends. Tarantulas are not cuddly like dogs or cats, so you cannot pick them up whenever you want as they will be greatly stressed out if you pick them up too much. But if you want a pet that's interesting and fun to observe and only observe (most of the time, unless you absolutely need to pick them up) then tarantulas are a good choice.

Daily misting should be enough to keep the humidity right. Give them a dish of very shallow water if you want, but most of the time they'll get their hydration from the misting. But the dish of water is recommended in case you miss a misting, as it regulates humidity and provides the tarantula with a drink.

The abdomens of most tarantulas are incredibly fragile, so you would either spook them or anger them by touching their abdomens repeatedly or too hard.

Most tarantulas are not comfortable with being held or handled. Some good indicators that they're getting sick of it are: Biting, hair ejection and aggressive poses. Docile and friendly species of tarantula such as Brazilian Black Tarantula or Mexican Redknee Tarantula are safe to handle.

It is not advised to handle a tarantula every single day as they need their rest and you may be bothering them or greatly annoying them when you pick them up daily. Limit tarantula handling as much as possible. For your tarantula's wellbeing and the safety of your skin from tarantula hair.

Do not try to handle your rose because these species are too aggressive and will bite you.

Try to use rubber gloves. Don't use string gloves because the tarantulas' feet might get caught in the string. Using rubber gloves will also help the tarantula stay gripped, so it doesn't fall out of your hand.

Usually between $60 and $130, depending on where you live. This is containing the hiding places and the heating mats, which are optional. You can also use a heat lamp.

Yes, even if it has the mildest bite, it's a good idea to always wear gloves, just so you don't need a visit to the doctor.

When you see a molt, soak it in warm water with a little bit of soap. Leave it there for about 5-10 minutes. Then open up the abdomen and you will see four white dots, in the middle you will see a flap. If that is the case your tarantula is a female, if the molt doesn't have the flap, then it is a male.

About 30 species of tarantula live in Arizona. If you are thinking about a certain place, then you will be able to more specifically identify the type.

Let it crawl onto your hand. Do not pick it up! Not only is this bad for the tarantula, but it may bite you.

Females live twelve to fourteen years, whereas males only live three to four years.

Not really, I don't believe they understand things to that level and I don't think they even know they are in captivity.

No, tarantulas cannot be tamed, it all depends on the temperament of the tarantula. That can change over time as the tarantula matures.