How to Choose a Tarantula for Beginners? A Guide for New Keepers

Tarantulas are fascinating creatures that are becoming increasingly popular among exotic pet enthusiasts. If you're new to the hobby, choosing your first tarantula can seem overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best beginner-friendly species and how to set up the perfect environment for your new eight-legged friend.

Why Keep a Tarantula?

Tarantulas are low-maintenance pets compared to other exotic animals. They don’t require daily care, they are quiet, and they don’t take up much space. Watching their behaviors—like molting, hunting, and web-building—can be incredibly captivating.

Best Tarantula Species for Beginners

If you’re new to tarantula keeping, it’s best to start with species known for their calm temperament and easy care requirements. Here are some of the best beginner-friendly tarantulas:

🕷️ Brachypelma hamorii (formerly smithi)

✔️ One of the most popular choices for beginners.
✔️ Docile and slow-moving, rarely aggressive.
✔️ Requires moderate humidity (60-70%) and temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F).

🕷️ Grammostola pulchra

✔️ One of the most calm and slow-moving tarantulas.
✔️ Has a stunning velvety black coloration.
✔️ Long lifespan – females can live up to 20 years!

🕷️ Caribena versicolor

✔️ A stunning arboreal species with a vibrant blue-green coloration.
✔️ More active but still manageable for beginners.
✔️ Requires higher humidity (75-80%) and a well-ventilated enclosure.

How to Set Up a Tarantula Enclosure?

Before bringing your tarantula home, make sure you have a properly prepared enclosure. Here are the essentials:

🔹 Terrarium – The size depends on the species. For ground-dwelling tarantulas, a 20x30 cm enclosure works well, while arboreal species need a taller 20x20x30 cm setup.
🔹 Substrate – Coconut fiber, peat moss, or a mix of soil and sphagnum moss is ideal.
🔹 Hide – A piece of cork bark or a hollow log provides shelter.
🔹 Water dish – Even if they rarely drink, a small dish of water is essential.
🔹 Temperature & Humidity – Most species thrive in 24-28°C (75-82°F) and 60-80% humidity.

Are Tarantulas Dangerous?

One of the most common concerns among beginners is whether tarantulas are dangerous. The truth is, most species available in pet stores are harmless to humans. Their venom is mild, comparable to a bee sting, and they rarely bite unless provoked.

However, some species have urticating hairs that can cause irritation if they come into contact with the skin or eyes. Always handle your tarantula with care and avoid unnecessary interactions.

Where to Buy a Tarantula?

When purchasing a tarantula, it’s crucial to buy from a reputable source. Avoid random online listings and instead choose specialized breeders or trusted exotic pet stores like TarantulaShop.

💡 Why Buy from a Trusted Store?
✔️ Guarantees that the tarantula comes from a legal and ethical source.
✔️ Provides accurate information about its health and care needs.
✔️ Access to expert advice in case you have any questions.