Tarantulas have a very fearsome reputation and the biggest majority of that is undeserved. Many think that tarantulas are deadly when in fact, they are far from it. Having a tarantula for a pet is a very common thing throughout the world, and there are a number of great reasons why. Here are some things to consider about having a tarantula as a pet.
1. Though the tarantula is quite large, and does have fangs and venom, most bites from a tarantula are no more serious than a bee sting. Some people have an allergy to insect venom that can be serious, but they are very much a minority. Most tarantulas are quite harmless.
2. Tarantulas are very reluctant spiders to bite as a rule. Unless you pester them or hurt them, they are not likely to bite. This is particularly true of the common tarantulas that are most often taken on as pets. There are some highly aggressive species out there, but they are rarely kept as pets except by experts that know how to care for them safely.
3. The hairs of some tarantulas are more dangerous than the venom. These hairs are very irritating and are another defense mechanism of the tarantula. Getting one of these hairs in your eyes is an experience that can be excruciating. Not all tarantulas have these hairs, so check before picking your pet out.
4. Tarantula spiders are super easy to care for. About all they need is a small enclosure, some water now and then, and a handful of crickets to munch on. Also, you want to keep the humidity in their cages. Tarantulas that are well fed and have plenty of water can be left for weeks at a time with no harm to the spider.
5. There are over 100 different species of tarantulas commonly kept as pets out there. The cool thing about this is that you can easily find one that is unique and unlike others in your area. Research the various species and pick out one that you like the most.
6. The reason that tarantulas are so feared has more to do with movies and television than any reality. Movies and television shows have always used tarantulas in scary spider situations because they are large and hairy. Numerous movies have shown them as being deadly, and the trend caught on.
7. Many tarantula pet owners allow their pets to crawl up and down their arms with no problems whatsoever. The tarantula is generally very docile and laid back. Just sitting and watching your pet tarantula in it’s cage can be tons of fun. Some build very interesting webs and tunnels in their homes, and they can be quite active at times. They are fascinating spiders that are much more intelligent than one might think.
Tarantulas for pets are not going to be everyones cup of tea, but they are great options for those that are not afraid of spiders. For those select few, a tarantula can be a source of great fun and entertainment with a new pet.
