Skip to main content

Extension

Open Main MenuClose Main Menu

Tarantula. Scientific Name

Aphonopelma hentzi

 

Habitat

Females are mostly nocturnal, hiding during the day in natural cavities in the ground, abandoned rodent tunnels, or burrows. Males wander in search of females and are more likely to be seen during the day. They may be active from any time from June to October but are most commonly seen in June and September. Females may live for 15-20 years. Tarantulas will feed on any live animal they can catch and overpower, including large insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, and beetles. The bite of our tarantula is considered no more harmful than a bee sting. Some people may develop hypersensitivity reactions to their body hairs.

 

Description

Body length of 2 inches, leg span about 6 inches. Brown and black in color, stout-bodied, and covered with hollow, needle-like, barbed hairs, especially on the abdomen.

 

Control

Please contact your local county extension office for current information.

MENUCLOSE