Tarantula

Tarantulas, family Theraphosidae, are large, hairy, and often docile spiders found in various habitats worldwide. Those of the genus Aphonopelma, common in North America, vary significantly in size, color, and lifespan, with many species being dark brown or black. Body lengths can range from 25 mm to over 100 mm, with leg spans exceeding 200 mm. They are long-lived, particularly females, which can live for 20-30 years, while males typically live for 5-10 years post-maturation. Females lay hundreds of eggs in a silken sac, which they guard meticulously, with spiderlings developing over several weeks to months.

Tarantulas are primarily nocturnal ambush predators, hunting insects, small reptiles, and amphibians. They are typically burrow dwellers, modifying existing burrows or excavating their own, which they line with silk. They are generally solitary and non-aggressive, preferring to retreat from threats. When threatened, many New World tarantulas (including Aphonopelma) will flick urticating hairs from their abdomen, which can cause irritation to skin and mucous membranes. Bites are rare and mostly occur if the spider is severely provoked, with venom generally not dangerous to humans, akin to a bee sting.