Q&A for How to Take Care of a Huntsman Spider

Yes, you can use a larger cage or aquarium for huntsman spiders, especially if you plan to keep them for the long term. A bigger enclosure provides more space for the spider to move around and creates a more natural environment for them. However, if you're not keeping them for an extended period, a smaller cage or aquarium should suffice. Whichever size you choose, make sure that the enclosure has adequate ventilation, hiding spots, and substrate to meet the spider's needs for shelter and security.

There is no guarantee but one way is to not make too many sudden movements and let it get to know you. That said, it really depends on the personality of the spider.

A 10-gallon aquarium should be ample space for the comfort and well-being of your spider. Make sure there is a lot of foliage and other outdoor material to help the spider feel as though it is in its regular habitat.

Any rough sticks or rocks that it can rub away the skin on could be added, but aren't necessary. Be sure to avoid aggravating them or feeding them while they are shedding.

Spiders do need water, but obviously nowhere near as much as humans. Just put out a little bit so it doesn't drown.

Adult spiders have a body length of 2.2 to 2.8cm (approximately 1 inch) and have a leg span of 7 to 12 cm (approximately 3 to 5 inches). Females have larger abdomens than males.

The people handling them in those videos likely know how to properly handle them without disturbing them. You could try to handle them, but one mistake and you're in for quite a painful bite. Always be careful around venomous animals.

As said in the article, you should feed them at least 2-3 times per week. But, if your huntsman does look hungry and starts to move around less, you could feed it then. Be sure to avoid giving it food directly before and after molting, as they will be stressed out.

Yes, of course! Huntsmen will definitely eat mealworms if you feed them to your spider. Make sure they are alive and visible to your spider though.

Some huntsman spiders are cannibalistic and some are not. Do some research to see whether the species of huntsman you have are cannibalistic or not.

Most huntsmen are actually pretty social (unlike other spiders)! Of course, by most, I mean most and not all. There will be many huntsmen spiders who will not enjoy company, so make sure you know whether it's a social species of huntsman or not.

Yes, you can use soil and sand as a substrate.

Female huntsmen will always be bigger than males. Female huntsmen can also be distinguished by a very large abdomen, which is most of the time, slightly larger than their head. Male huntsmen's abdomens are smaller, and even when they're full, their abdomen does not grow to the size of a female's.