Different Strokes for Different Folks
Some people prefer warm blooded pets and others prefer the cold blooded variety. When purchasing a tarantula as a pet it is important to do your research as they come in many different sizes and shapes from a variety of climates and countries. Some tarantulas prefer high spots in trees, whilst others prefer to have their feet firmly planted on mother earth. Because of the variety of their origins, this means that you will have to purchase a suitable container to house your eight legged friend and provide it with the correct temperature and humidity levels optimal for its well-being.
Housing for your Tarantula
A tarantula does not require a lot of room to move so your container need not be too big. Cover the bottom of your container with a substrate mixed with organic soil to a depth of at least the leg span of your pet. Tarantulas can escape glass enclosures so make sure yours is well sealed to prevent this. These spiders can fall and injure themselves so it is best that the substrate is deep enough to prevent injury should it decide to climb to a higher viewpoint.
It is necessary to mist your container regularly so that it remains fairly moist. Depending on what part of the globe your spider hales from, you will need to provide it with climbing options for those who prefer some height. If this is the case then use tree branches or driftwood. The items in your container should be organic to avoid your pet being poisoned by hidden chemical additives. If your pet is originally a ground dwelling creature, then ensure your substrate is deep enough for burrowing purposes. Remember that your spider will also need some privacy to escape light and the stresses of the day so a small inbuilt cave or burrow is necessary for some rest and relaxation.
Feeding your Eight Legged Friend
All tarantulas naturally feed on insects but can also be opportunistic feeders. Their diet should therefore consist of crickets, roaches and other insects. Crickets may be obtained from your pet store and cockroaches may be ordered online. If you are a fearless soul, you could simply trap some and breed your own. Grease the top of your spider container when feeding to prevent escape as your spider may starve if you don’t see a cockroach in the container and assume your spider has dined. Depending on the size of your variety, it may also enjoy small lizards, snakes, birds or mice.
You will also need to supply your tarantula with fresh, clean water. The size of the container will depend on the size of your spider but it will need sufficient depth to submerge its fangs and chelicerae to drink. Again you need to be aware of exposure to any toxins or bacteria so do not let it drink from a moist sponge or cloth as this could lead to an early demise.
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