Getting a pet curly-haired tarantula has never been easier, but it's important to learn the right way to care for them. Here's your crash course!
Curly-haired tarantulas may look intimidating, but they're actually a wonderful and unique pet to own. With the right care and attention, a curly-haired tarantula can be a great companion for years to come. Here's what you need to know about properly caring for your new pet!
Understand the Habitat Needs
Having the right habitat for your curly-haired tarantula is important. The enclosure should be large enough to allow them room to move and explore, but should not be overcrowded. Aim for an enclosure that has at least eight times more floor space than the width of your tarantula’s body. Since tarantulas like humidity, try including a shallow water dish with damp peat moss or coco fiber in it to help keep the humidity level high. Ensure that the habitat is well ventilated and includes plenty of hiding places, like pieces of cork bark or other natural objects that can mimic their natural environment.
Provide Fresh, Live Food Regularly
Curly-haired tarantulas can live off fresh, live food, like crickets and mealworms. Ensure that you provide your tarantula with these live foods regularly. You may need to supplement the food with nutritional powders or gel diets to make sure they are getting the nutrition they need. Additionally, consider providing some occasional treats, such as waxworms and other small insects.
Maintain a High Humidity Level
Curly-haired tarantulas do not need special environmental conditions to be happy, but they do require a high level of humidity. Keep the humidity between 70 and 80%, measured with a hygrometer or moisture meter. To maintain this humidity level, misting their enclosure once a week should suffice. Be careful not to over-mist, as this may cause the enclosure to become too humid and can lead to respiratory problems in your tarantula.
Monitor Temperature and Feeding Schedule
Curly-haired tarantulas are most comfortable in temperatures ranging from 75 - 85 F (24 to 30 C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature in your enclosure and make sure it doesn't get too hot or too cool. A low-powered under tank heater may be needed if your house is particularly cold. As for feeding, tarantulas should be fed about once a week, depending on their size, with crickets or mealworms as a main staple. Make sure to remove any uneaten prey from the enclosure after an hour otherwise they may start eating the tarantula’s legs!
Use Serious Caging Techniques for Safety
Tarantulas should always be kept in an enclosure that is escape-proof. A terrarium with a vented lid or a plastic aquarium with a secure top is best. Screen tops are not suitable as tarantulas can push through even the smallest holes. Sand, bark, or other arid-type substrates should also be provided so your tarantula can construct a burrow and hide inside when it wants to be alone.
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