Tarantulas can make wonderful pets. They are exotic and fascinating creatures that require much less attention than a dog or cat, or even a fish tank. Many species are hardy enough to require minimal care and are always great conversation starters. However, novice pet owners should be careful when deciding what type of tarantula to buy, as some species can be aggressive or overly delicate. Here are some recommendations on the best species for beginning tarantula keepers.

  1. The Honduran curly-haired tarantula (Grammastola albopilosum). Pet store employees often recommend the Chilean Pink Haired Tarantula, but I’m going to challenge popular opinion here. In my opinion, the Honduran curly-haired tarantula is a better pet, as long as one does not mind some extra expense. Like most common pet species, these are gentle and incredibly docile creatures. However, unlike the Chilean pink-haired tarantula, they have a very large appetite. It is true that they tend to be more expensive than rose hair; however, spider pups can typically be bought for a pittance (often $ 3 to $ 6 each), and due to their voracious appetite, they grow up fairly quickly.
  2. The Chilean pink-haired tarantula (Grammastola rosea). This is the most common pet store variety. They are also soft and easy to care for; however, they have an annoying habit of fasting for months, which can be very aggravating. Still, they make wonderful beginner pets.
  3. The Mexican Red Knee Tarantula (Brachypelma smithi). This species, along with the Chilean pink hair, is commonly used in movies and television. It is also very tame and much more colorful than most varieties from pet stores. However, in my experience, their hairs tend to be a bit irritating to human skin. Furthermore, due to its popularity, it has become a restricted species; that is, its collection from the wild has become illegal. As a result, they tend to be expensive.
  4. The Mexican blonde tarantula (Calcodes of Aphonopelma). Another tame wonder. For a while this species was not available for sale, but it has been making a comeback. Most pet stores do not sell this variety yet, but it is often available through mail order.
  5. The Chaco golden knee tarantula (Grammastola aureostriatum). Easily one of my favorites! These specimens are not as colorful as the red knee tarantula, but can be distinguished by the golden bands on their legs. They also have impressive legs (up to eight inches or more!), But their terrifying size is belied by their absolutely sweet provisions. However, because they are relatively new to hobbyists, they tend to cost more than other tarantulas.
  6. The Brazilian black tarantula (Grammastola pulchra). These also tend to be large. This is not a colorful species; however, their satin black shell gives them a sleek and elegant look. This variety is almost as large as Grammastola aureostriatum, with a wingspan of 7 to 8 inches.
  7. The Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula (Aphonopelma seemani). This one is a bit more difficult to care for than the species mentioned above, but it is still a treasure. However, they tend to be a bit skittish, so handling them is not recommended. They usually don’t bite, but they are prone to running away and, like most tarantulas, can easily be injured in a fall.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *