For many, the idea of keeping a spider as a pet might evoke images of creepy crawlies and Halloween decorations. However, for a growing number of enthusiasts, spiders, particularly tarantulas, are becoming increasingly popular and fascinating pets. Perhaps you’ve seen a tarantula at a pet store or online and wondered, “can a spider really be a pet?”. The answer, for many, is a resounding yes. But, like any pet, spider ownership comes with its own set of considerations.
My own journey into the world of pet spiders began in childhood. A trip to a local pet store unveiled a creature that captured my imagination like no other – a large tarantula. This wasn’t some fleeting fascination fueled by horror movies, but a genuine awe at the sheer magnificence of this often-misunderstood animal. Years later, this early encounter blossomed into a full-blown passion, leading to a collection of over 130 tarantula species and a website, Tom’s Big Spiders, dedicated to sharing knowledge and passion for these incredible arachnids.
While many who reach out to me are already tarantula keepers or are set on becoming one, a significant number are still on the fence. They’re curious about keeping a spider as a pet but unsure if it’s the right choice for them. As someone deeply immersed in the tarantula hobby, I wholeheartedly believe in the joys of spider ownership. However, I also recognize that tarantulas aren’t for everyone. Just like any animal companion, there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider.
So, let’s delve into the world of pet spiders and explore the pros and cons of welcoming a tarantula into your home. This guide will help you decide if a spider could be the perfect, albeit unconventional, pet for you.
The Allure of Arachnids: The Good Sides of Keeping a Pet Spider
Minimal Space Requirements: Perfect for Any Home
One of the most significant advantages of choosing a spider as a pet is their modest space requirement. Unlike dogs, cats, or even rabbits, tarantulas are perfectly content in relatively small enclosures. Most adult tarantulas, even those with impressive 5-6 inch leg spans, thrive in habitats comparable in size to a 5 to 10-gallon aquarium. This compact footprint makes them ideal pets for apartments, dorm rooms, offices, or any space where square footage is at a premium.
Their discreet nature allows for flexible placement within your living space. Many keepers house their spiders on shelves, desks, dressers, or even bedside tables, seamlessly integrating these unique pets into their daily lives without significant disruption.
This space efficiency also contributes to another popular aspect of the tarantula hobby: collecting. Because they require minimal room, enthusiasts often find themselves expanding their families to include multiple species, creating diverse and fascinating collections. The variety available within the tarantula world is a major draw, leading us to the next compelling benefit.
A World of Variety: Countless Spider Species to Discover
C. versicolor
When you picture a tarantula, a classic image of a large, brown, hairy spider likely comes to mind. However, the reality is far more diverse and captivating. There are over 900 species of tarantulas known to science, each exhibiting unique characteristics, sizes, patterns, and colors. From terrestrial species that roam the ground to fossorial species that create intricate burrows, and the breathtaking arboreal species that dwell in the treetops, the variety is astounding.
Tarantulas inhabit diverse environments, leading to specialized care requirements. Some species thrive in arid, desert-like conditions, while others require humid, rainforest-like setups. This range allows keepers to choose species that match their environmental preferences and care capabilities.
Beyond habitat, the color palette of tarantulas is truly remarkable. Forget drab browns; tarantulas display vibrant blues, striking greens, vivid oranges, and even regal purples. Initially, when I began researching tarantulas, I was skeptical of the vividly colored images I encountered, suspecting digital manipulation. To my astonishment, I discovered these dazzling hues were entirely natural. The combination of diverse patterns, colors, sizes, and care needs makes exploring the world of tarantula species an endlessly rewarding journey for any aspiring keeper.
Incredibly Low Maintenance: Effortless Pet Ownership
For those accustomed to the demands of traditional pets requiring daily feeding, walks, and frequent vet visits, tarantulas offer a refreshing contrast. They are arguably one of the lowest maintenance pets imaginable. Forget daily feeding routines; tarantulas only need to eat appropriately sized prey once a week or even once a month to maintain optimal health.
Cleanliness is another hallmark of tarantula keeping. They are naturally tidy animals that don’t necessitate frequent substrate changes. While spiderlings and juveniles require periodic “rehousing” into larger enclosures as they grow, adult tarantulas can reside on the same substrate for years. Routine maintenance simply involves spot cleaning to remove prey remains (boluses) and shed exoskeletons (molts). Tarantula waste is minimal, often absorbed into the substrate, and any droppings on the enclosure walls are easily wiped away with a damp paper towel.
Maintaining a tarantula’s basic needs is equally straightforward. A water dish with fresh water is essential (sponges are unnecessary and potentially harmful), and that’s essentially it. Their low-maintenance nature makes them an excellent choice for busy individuals or those seeking a pet that fits seamlessly into a less demanding lifestyle.
Budget-Friendly Companions: Affordable Pet Keeping
The minimal needs of tarantulas translate directly to their affordability as pets. Setting up and maintaining a tarantula habitat is surprisingly inexpensive. Elaborate, costly enclosures are unnecessary, and many keepers successfully utilize budget-friendly options like modified plastic storage bins readily available at department stores. My first tarantula, The Queen, thrived for a decade in a modified plastic bin costing a mere $3.
The reality is, a tarantula’s well-being is not dictated by the price tag of its enclosure. A simple, modified plastic bin can be just as suitable as an expensive glass terrarium, giving keepers flexibility in their spending. A basic adult tarantula setup requires only an enclosure, substrate (coco fiber or topsoil are excellent choices), a hide (cork bark is a popular and natural option), and a water dish. These essentials can be acquired for a minimal investment.
Inexpensive plastic storage bins repurposed as comfortable tarantula enclosures.
Tarantulas are also economical to feed. Their insect-based diet and infrequent feeding schedule result in remarkably low food costs. Feeding a tarantula crickets weekly might only cost around $0.60 per month. Mealworms are another affordable option, and uneaten mealworms can be refrigerated for later use. For larger collections, some keepers even establish their own feeder insect colonies, ensuring a continuous and cost-effective food supply.
Even the initial cost of acquiring a tarantula can be surprisingly reasonable. While mature, sexed adults can command higher prices, spiderlings (baby spiders) are often available for under $50. Furthermore, tarantulas don’t require routine veterinary care, vaccinations, or expensive medications. They are generally hardy creatures with few health issues, making them a financially sound pet choice.
Rewarding Habitat Design: Unleash Your Creativity
A more elaborate acrylic enclosure featuring live plants for a naturalistic display.
Beyond the practical aspects, tarantula keeping offers a creative outlet through habitat design. While elaborate setups aren’t essential for the spider’s well-being, many keepers find immense satisfaction in creating aesthetically pleasing and naturalistic environments for their pets.
Moving beyond basic setups, some enthusiasts opt for premium glass or acrylic enclosures and incorporate natural elements like live plants, moss, leaf litter, and custom backgrounds. These meticulously crafted habitats can transform a simple enclosure into a miniature ecosystem, adding a touch of nature to any room and serving as a captivating conversation starter. For some, the art of creating beautiful, visually engaging habitats becomes a central aspect of the hobby, mirroring the dedication of aquarists to their underwater landscapes.
Exceptional Longevity: Years of Companionship
The Queen, a Rose Hair Tarantula, lived for over 25 years.
When I welcomed my first tarantula, a young adult Grammostola porteri (Rose Hair Tarantula), in the mid-90s, I was concerned about her lifespan. My worries were unfounded. “The Queen,” as she became known, graced my life for over 26 years. Female tarantulas, in general, boast impressive lifespans, ranging from 10 to 30+ years, depending on the species. Many popular “beginner” species are slow-growing and can easily live for two decades or more. While males typically have shorter lifespans, they can still live for 5 years or longer. If you’re seeking a pet that offers long-term companionship, numerous tarantula species are well worth considering.
Conquering Arachnophobia: Overcoming Fear Through Understanding
My initial foray into tarantula keeping was partly motivated by a desire to overcome a lifelong fear of spiders. Through patient interaction and observation, tarantulas helped me conquer my arachnophobia completely, replacing fear with fascination.
And I’m not alone. Countless tarantula keepers have shared similar experiences, transforming from arachnophobes to passionate spider enthusiasts. Many find it paradoxical that large, hairy tarantulas are less frightening than common house spiders. The size and deliberate movements of tarantulas can be perceived as less erratic and threatening than smaller, faster spiders, making them easier to observe and interact with calmly. The process of caring for and observing these animals fosters a sense of respect and admiration, gradually eroding fear and replacing it with appreciation for these misunderstood creatures.
Endless Fascination: A Captivating World to Observe
Search for “tarantula feeding videos” online, and you’ll discover a vast library of content with millions of views. The sheer popularity of these videos underscores the inherent fascination many people have with spiders, particularly their hunting and feeding behaviors. There’s something undeniably captivating about witnessing a large arachnid engage in its natural instincts, whether it’s the “tarantula happy dance” during feeding or the intricate process of web-spinning.
Feeding is just one facet of the captivating world of tarantula keeping. Raising a spider from a tiny spiderling to a mature adult is a rewarding and mesmerizing journey. Even after witnessing countless molts, I remain in awe each time a spider undergoes this incredible shedding process. For those seeking even deeper engagement, breeding tarantulas offers one of the most extraordinary and gratifying experiences the hobby can provide.
And sometimes, simply observing a tarantula in its enclosure, even when seemingly inactive, is inherently captivating. The mere presence of a giant spider is inherently intriguing. Tarantulas, by their very nature, are endlessly cool and fascinating animals.
The Flip Side of the Coin: The Downsides of Spider Ownership
Not the Cuddly Type: Independent and Unaffectionate
For those seeking a pet that offers affection and physical interaction like a dog, cat, or even a rat, a tarantula is not the right choice. While debates about tarantula intelligence continue, and anecdotal evidence suggests some learning capabilities, they are not wired for affection in the way we typically understand it. Just as cuddling a fish is inappropriate, expecting cuddles from a spider is unrealistic.
While some keepers who handle their tarantulas report that their spiders seem to become accustomed to interaction, there’s no scientific evidence to suggest they enjoy or benefit from handling. Furthermore, a tarantula’s temperament can fluctuate between molts, with a typically docile individual becoming more skittish or defensive post-molt. If your heart is set on a lap pet for movie nights, a furry, conventional companion is a better fit.
Legal Restrictions: Check Local Regulations
While not widespread, some localities, states, or even countries have regulations regarding tarantula ownership. These restrictions can range from species-specific bans to broader prohibitions on venomous arachnids. Before acquiring a tarantula, it’s crucial to research and understand your local laws to ensure compliance.
Venomous and Defensive: Potential for Bites and Urticating Hairs
It’s essential to remember that tarantulas are exotic, undomesticated animals. While they can make wonderful pets, they retain their natural defense mechanisms. If threatened, all tarantulas possess fangs and venom. Fortunately, the species typically recommended for beginners are “New World” tarantulas from the Americas. Their venom is considered mild, with a bite comparable to a bee sting.
However, New World tarantulas possess a secondary defense mechanism: urticating hairs. These barbed bristles on their abdomens can be flicked towards perceived threats, causing itching, burning, and discomfort upon skin contact. Responsible handling and respectful care significantly minimize the risk of bites or urticating hair encounters. However, potential keepers must be aware of these inherent risks.
Feeder Insects: A Potential Discomfort Factor
B. lateralis, commonly known as Turkish roaches, are a nutritious feeder insect.
Surprisingly, for some prospective keepers, the biggest hurdle isn’t the spider itself but the feeder insects required to sustain them. Those with sensitivities to creepy crawlies might find crickets, roaches, or mealworms unsettling. I’ve encountered keepers who dread feeding time due to their discomfort handling feeder insects. Others struggle with the ethical aspect of feeding live prey, empathizing with the insects. While alternative feeding methods exist, live insects are the most natural and nutritionally complete food source for tarantulas.
Negative Perceptions: Societal Arachnophobia
Recently, my wife, a fellow tarantula enthusiast, shared photos of tarantula molts on social media. Despite explaining that these were from our pet spiders, a “friend” responded by boasting about the number of spiders they had killed. Unfortunately, spider keepers often face negative reactions, ranging from “I’d smash it” to “Burn that thing!” Some individuals even express reluctance to visit homes where spiders are kept.
Arachnophobia is a widespread phobia, and fear often breeds revulsion. Instead of recognizing the ecological benefits of spiders, many people harbor deep-seated loathing. Sharing your passion for tarantulas with friends or acquaintances might be met with hostility. Furthermore, roommates or family members might resist the idea of a pet spider in the home. Personally, I was forbidden from keeping tarantulas at home due to my mother’s arachnophobia. Open communication and addressing potential concerns are crucial when living with others and considering spider ownership.
Attracting the Wrong Kind of Attention: Irresponsible Keepers
In my years interacting with tarantula keepers, I’ve observed a diverse community encompassing teachers, doctors, lawyers, veterinarians, and people from all walks of life. The stereotype of tarantula keepers as tattooed outcasts playing with spiders in the dark to heavy metal music is outdated and inaccurate.
However, there is a subset of individuals drawn to tarantulas precisely because of their “scary” or “dangerous” reputation. Their motivation for keeping spiders is rooted in a desire to project an image of bravery or recklessness. A quick online search reveals sensationalized videos showcasing “aggressive” or “deadly” spiders, often accompanied by irresponsible handling and poor husbandry practices. These individuals prioritize shock value over animal welfare, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and endangering both themselves and their spiders. Tarantulas are not toys or props; they are living creatures deserving of respect, responsible care, and accurate representation.
Highly Addictive Hobby: Beware the Collection Bug
A glimpse into a tarantula collection, showcasing the diversity of species.
Perhaps this should be framed as a warning rather than a con, but it’s a significant aspect of tarantula keeping: it’s incredibly addictive. Whenever someone acquires their first tarantula, I jokingly caution them, “Be careful; they’re addictive!” While often met with laughter initially, many of these individuals later contact me, having amassed collections of dozens of spiders. The vast majority of tarantula keepers end up owning more than one. It took me years after getting my first Rose Hair Tarantula to truly succumb to the “collection bug,” but I now care for over 200 spiders. While my case is extreme, collections of 30 or more are not uncommon. If you have a penchant for collecting, consider yourself warned – tarantula keeping can be highly addictive!
So, Is a Tarantula the Right Pet for You?
For those seeking an uncommon, fascinating, and low-maintenance pet, a tarantula can be an exceptional choice. Beautiful, resilient, and endlessly intriguing, these remarkable animals are far more than the fearsome creatures portrayed in popular media. With respectful care and responsible handling, they can provide years of joy and fascination.
If you’re contemplating tarantula ownership, thorough research is paramount. This website is designed as a resource for beginner keepers, offering current information based on personal experience. Additionally, consider joining tarantula forums or Facebook groups to connect with experienced keepers and learn from their collective wisdom.
Tom Moran – Tom’s Big Spiders
