---

Explore Different Types of Tarantulas for Sale

Tarantulas vary considerably in appearance, size, activity levels and habitat preferences. Understanding these differences can help you select a species that suits your experience and available facilities.

Mexican Redknee Tarantula

The Mexican Redknee Tarantula (Brachypelma smithi) is one of the most recognisable tarantulas in the exotic pet hobby. It is admired for its dark body, orange-red markings on its leg joints and contrasting pale bands.

Native to Mexico, this terrestrial species is associated with relatively dry habitats and natural burrows. It generally grows slowly and can live for many years, particularly females.

Its striking appearance and comparatively manageable care requirements have made it a popular choice among keepers. However, it can release irritating defensive hairs when threatened, so handling should be avoided.

Greenbottle Blue Tarantula

The Greenbottle Blue Tarantula (Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens) is renowned for its vivid blue legs, metallic greenish carapace and bright orange abdomen.

Native to Venezuela, it is adapted to relatively dry environments and often creates extensive webs around its shelter. Its attractive colouration and active web-building behaviour make it particularly interesting to observe.

A suitable enclosure should provide a dry-to-moderately humid environment appropriate to the species, secure shelter, ventilation and enough space for web construction.

Goliath Bird-eating Tarantula

The Goliath Bird-eating Tarantula, commonly associated with Theraphosa species, is famous for its enormous size and impressive leg span. It is among the largest tarantulas in the world by mass and body size.

These South American tarantulas inhabit warm, humid forest environments, where they shelter in burrows and feed on suitable animal prey.

Their substantial size, defensive hairs and specialised environmental requirements make them better suited to experienced keepers. A secure enclosure, appropriate substrate and carefully managed humidity are essential.

Pink Toe Tarantula

The Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia avicularia) is an arboreal species recognised by its dark body and contrasting pinkish tips on its feet.

Native to South America, it lives primarily above ground and uses vegetation, tree cavities and silk retreats for shelter. Its enclosure should therefore offer vertical space, suitable climbing surfaces and secure hiding places.

Pink Toe Tarantulas are fascinating to observe as they explore their surroundings and construct silken retreats. Proper ventilation is particularly important when maintaining the humidity required by this species.

Mexican Fireleg Tarantula

The Mexican Fireleg Tarantula (Brachypelma boehmei) is admired for its striking orange-red leg markings against a dark body.

This terrestrial species originates from Mexico and is adapted to comparatively dry environments. It may spend time resting in a burrow or exploring its enclosure, depending on its individual behaviour.

Its vivid colouration makes it an appealing display species, but it can use defensive hairs when threatened. A suitable enclosure should provide appropriate substrate, a secure hide and stable environmental conditions.

Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula

The Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula (Grammostola pulchripes) is recognised by its dark body and golden-yellow markings around its leg joints.

Native to South America, it is a terrestrial species that generally prefers a substrate suitable for shallow burrowing and secure resting places.

Its impressive size and attractive markings make it popular with hobbyists. As with all tarantulas, individual temperament varies, and it should be observed rather than handled.

Cobalt Blue Tarantula

The Cobalt Blue Tarantula (Cyriopagopus lividus, historically listed as Haplopelma lividum) is known for its vivid blue legs and dark body.

This Southeast Asian species is a specialised burrower that spends much of its time underground. It generally requires a deep, suitable substrate and a carefully maintained environment that supports its burrowing behaviour.

Despite its striking appearance, the Cobalt Blue Tarantula is generally considered a species for experienced keepers because of its speed, defensive behaviour and potentially medically significant venom.

Gooty Sapphire Ornamental Tarantula

The Gooty Sapphire Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria metallica) is famous for its striking metallic blue colouration and intricate pale markings.

Native to India, this arboreal species is associated with tree cavities and other elevated retreats. Its enclosure should provide vertical climbing space, suitable hiding places and secure ventilation.

It is a visually remarkable species, but its speed and medically significant venom mean that it is not suitable for casual handling or inexperienced keepers.

Brazilian Black Tarantula

The Brazilian Black Tarantula (Grammostola pulchra) is admired for its velvety black appearance and robust body.

This terrestrial South American species is a popular subject for observation because of its striking colouration and generally slower-moving behaviour.

It still requires a suitable enclosure, stable conditions, secure shelter and an appropriate diet. Even species described as calm should never be assumed to be safe to handle.

Antilles Pink Toe Tarantula

The Antilles Pink Toe Tarantula (Caribena versicolor, historically listed as Avicularia versicolor) is known for its colourful development. Juveniles often display vivid blue tones, while adults develop a mixture of green, blue, red and purple hues.

This arboreal species originates from the Caribbean and needs vertical space, secure retreats and good ventilation. Excessively stagnant or persistently wet conditions can create problems, so the enclosure should be carefully designed.

Its changing colouration makes it particularly interesting for keepers who enjoy observing the development of an individual tarantula.

What Makes Tarantulas Special?

Tarantulas possess several characteristics that distinguish them from many other invertebrates.

• Impressive leg spans: Some species grow large enough to span the palm of an adult hand, although actual size varies considerably.
• Distinctive colouration: Depending on the species, tarantulas may display metallic blue, orange, red, black, green or patterned markings.
• Specialised habitats: Some are terrestrial, others arboreal, and many are adapted to burrowing underground.
• Silk production: Tarantulas use silk to line retreats, construct webs and create protective surfaces.
• Interesting moulting behaviour: They periodically shed their exoskeleton as they grow.
• Long lifespans: Some females can live for many years or even decades, depending on the species.

These characteristics make tarantulas fascinating animals to observe. However, their specialised behaviour and potential defensive responses mean that their care should always prioritise safety and appropriate environmental conditions.

Tarantula Habitat and Natural Environment

Tarantulas occur in a wide variety of environments around the world. Their natural habitats influence how they should be housed in captivity.

Terrestrial Tarantulas

Terrestrial tarantulas spend most of their time on the ground. Many use burrows, shelters or natural crevices to rest and avoid disturbance.

Their enclosures should generally provide sufficient floor space, suitable substrate and at least one secure hide. Excessive enclosure height should be avoided where a fall could injure the animal.

Arboreal Tarantulas

Arboreal tarantulas live primarily above ground and use trees, vegetation or elevated cavities for shelter.

They generally benefit from taller enclosures with secure climbing surfaces, cork bark and suitable retreats. Ventilation and safe access to shelter are important considerations.

Burrowing Tarantulas

Burrowing species spend considerable time underground, often emerging to feed or explore.

Their enclosures should provide sufficiently deep substrate that supports stable burrows. Decorations must be positioned securely so that digging cannot cause them to collapse.

Dry-Habitat Tarantulas

Some tarantulas originate from dry grasslands, scrubland or semi-arid environments. These species generally require less moisture than tropical forest species.

Their substrate should not remain persistently wet, although access to suitable drinking water remains important.

Humid-Habitat Tarantulas

Tropical forest species often require higher humidity and moisture-retaining substrate. They may also benefit from additional cover and carefully managed ventilation.

Avoid assuming that all tropical species require identical conditions. Correct identification and species-specific husbandry guidance are essential.

Tarantula Care Guide

Before purchasing a tarantula, research its natural habitat and adult size. Correct enclosure design, feeding, environmental monitoring and safe maintenance are important throughout its life.

Enclosure Requirements

Choose an enclosure that suits the tarantula's lifestyle rather than selecting one based solely on appearance.

A terrestrial species generally needs adequate floor space and suitable substrate, while an arboreal species benefits from more vertical space and elevated retreats. Burrowing species require sufficient substrate depth.

A suitable enclosure should include:

• Secure, escape-resistant construction.
• Appropriate floor space or vertical space for the species.
• A stable hide or retreat.
• Suitable substrate.
• Adequate ventilation.
• Access to an appropriate water source.
• Safe positioning away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Avoid sharp decorations, unstable structures and excessive enclosure height for ground-dwelling species. Any enclosure opening should be designed to prevent escapes.

Temperature and Humidity

Tarantula temperature and humidity requirements vary by species and natural habitat.

Tropical forest tarantulas may need warmer and more humid conditions than species from dry environments. However, excessive moisture, poor ventilation or overheating can cause serious problems.

Use reliable thermometers and, where appropriate, a hygrometer to monitor the enclosure. If supplementary heating is needed, choose a safe method that avoids hot spots and allows the animal to retreat from excessive heat.

Research the exact species before setting environmental targets. Generic care advice should not replace species-specific guidance.

Substrate and Hiding Places

Substrate helps create a suitable environment and supports natural behaviour.

Terrestrial species may require a substrate that permits shallow digging, while burrowing species need deeper material capable of supporting their tunnels. Arboreal species may need less substrate depth but benefit from elevated hides and secure climbing structures.

Choose materials that are appropriate for the species and free from pesticides or other contaminants.

Provide a secure hide that allows the tarantula to retreat from light and disturbance. Burrows and retreats are particularly important for species that naturally spend much of their time concealed.

Lighting and Environmental Stability

Tarantulas generally do not require bright display lighting. A normal day-and-night cycle is usually sufficient, provided that the enclosure remains within the correct temperature range.

Avoid direct sunlight, which can rapidly overheat an enclosure. Do not expose a tarantula to intense lighting merely to make it more visible.

Stable conditions, appropriate shelter and minimal disturbance are more important than elaborate lighting arrangements.

Feeding Tarantulas

Tarantulas are predators that primarily consume insects and other suitable invertebrates. Their diet depends on their size, age and species.

Appropriate feeder options may include:

• Crickets of a suitable size.
• Suitable roaches.
• Mealworms or other appropriate insect larvae.
• Other safe feeder invertebrates recommended for the species.

Juvenile tarantulas generally need smaller prey and may require more frequent feeding than adults. Feeding frequency varies with species, temperature, age and body condition.

Remove uneaten prey when appropriate, especially if the tarantula is preparing to moult or has recently moulted. Live feeder insects can injure a vulnerable tarantula during this period.

Provide access to suitable drinking water in a shallow, secure dish where appropriate for the animal's size. Avoid overfeeding and keep the enclosure clean.

Moulting and Growth

Tarantulas grow by shedding their exoskeleton, a process known as moulting. Before a moult, an individual may become less active, refuse food or spend more time in its retreat.

During this period, avoid unnecessary disturbance. Remove live prey if the tarantula is approaching a moult, and do not attempt to handle or reposition it unnecessarily.

The newly moulted exoskeleton remains soft for a period, leaving the animal vulnerable to injury. Allow it time to harden before resuming normal feeding routines.

Moulting frequency varies with species, age, sex and environmental conditions. Young tarantulas generally moult more frequently than adults.

Behaviour and Handling Safety

Tarantulas are best kept as observation animals rather than handled pets. Even species with a reputation for being calm can bite, release irritating defensive hairs or move unexpectedly.

Old World species from Africa and Asia, including many baboon and ornamental tarantulas, can be particularly defensive and may possess medically significant venom. These species are best suited to experienced keepers who understand their risks.

Always use a secure enclosure and follow appropriate procedures during cleaning or transfers. Never pick up a tarantula with bare hands, provoke it to assess its temperament or allow it to roam freely.

Keep the enclosure away from children and other pets. If a bite or exposure to defensive hairs occurs, seek appropriate medical advice if symptoms are significant or persistent.

Are Tarantulas Suitable for Beginners?

Some tarantula species may be suitable for beginners who are prepared to provide the correct environment and observe the animal without handling it. Others require considerably more experience because of their speed, defensive behaviour, specialised habitat needs or medically significant venom.

When choosing a first tarantula, consider its temperament, adult size, growth rate, enclosure requirements and defensive mechanisms.

Species such as the Mexican Redknee, Chaco Golden Knee and Brazilian Black are often considered by keepers seeking terrestrial tarantulas, but individual behaviour varies and no species should be regarded as completely risk-free.

Research the specific animal before purchasing it, and choose a species whose care requirements and potential risks you can responsibly manage.

Buying Tarantulas Responsibly

When searching for tarantulas for sale, choose a reputable seller who can provide accurate information about species identification, origin, feeding history and captive-bred status.

Before purchasing, consider the following:

• Scientific identification: Confirm the scientific name, particularly where common names are used for several related species.
• Captive-bred status: Ask whether the tarantula was bred in captivity and request supporting documentation.
• Health and condition: Look for normal posture, intact limbs and no obvious signs of injury or abnormal activity.
• Feeding history: Ask which prey the animal accepts and when it last fed.
• Age and size: Request the current body size or leg span and ask about its development stage.
• Sex: Ask whether the animal has been reliably sexed, but understand that sex cannot always be confirmed in young specimens.
• Habitat requirements: Prepare the correct enclosure and environmental conditions before arrival.
• Legal requirements: Check any restrictions on possession, sale, import or export.
• Transport arrangements: Confirm that the seller uses suitable live-animal transport procedures and complies with applicable regulations.

Availability, price, sex and captive-bred status should be confirmed directly with the seller rather than assumed.

Conservation and Legal Considerations

Some tarantulas are widely bred in captivity, while others enter the pet trade through collection from the wild. Responsible purchasing should prioritise lawful sourcing and reliable documentation.

Certain tarantulas, particularly species within the genus Brachypelma, are subject to international wildlife-trade controls under CITES. Other species may be regulated by national or regional laws. Requirements can differ depending on the exact species and the countries involved.

Before purchasing or importing a tarantula, verify the relevant regulations and ensure that required documentation is available. Captive-bred animals with reliable provenance can help reduce demand for unsustainable wild collection.

Never release a captive tarantula into the wild. A non-native animal may pose ecological risks, and releasing captive animals can introduce parasites or disease.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tarantulas for Sale

What types of tarantulas are available?

The pet trade may include Mexican Redknee, Greenbottle Blue, Goliath Bird-eating, Pink Toe, Chaco Golden Knee, Brazilian Black and many other species. Availability varies by seller, season and legal restrictions.

Are tarantulas good pets?

Tarantulas can be fascinating observation animals for people who understand their environmental needs and defensive behaviour. They are generally not suitable for people who want a pet that can be handled frequently.

Are tarantulas poisonous or venomous?

Tarantulas are venomous and use venom to subdue prey. The medical significance of their venom varies by species. Some also release irritating defensive hairs that can affect skin, eyes or airways.

What do pet tarantulas eat?

Most pet tarantulas eat suitable live invertebrates, including crickets and roaches. Prey size and feeding frequency should be adjusted according to the animal's size, age and condition.

Do tarantulas need heat and humidity?

Their requirements depend on the species. Tropical species often need warmer, more humid conditions, while some dry-habitat species require comparatively low moisture levels. Always research the exact species before setting up an enclosure.

How often do tarantulas moult?

Moulting frequency varies with age, species, sex and environmental conditions. Juveniles generally moult more often than adults, and the animal may stop feeding before a moult.

Can tarantulas live together?

Most pet tarantulas are best housed individually because cohabitation can lead to injury, cannibalism or stress. Do not house different species together.

Are tarantulas suitable for beginners?

Some species may be suitable for prepared beginners, while fast, defensive or medically significant species are better suited to experienced keepers. Consider the exact species and its care requirements before purchasing.

Can I buy tarantulas online?

Online listings may offer tarantulas for sale depending on the seller and the species. Before ordering, confirm availability, lawful sourcing, transport arrangements and any regulations that apply in your location.

Find Your Tarantula

Tarantulas are remarkable arachnids with a diverse range of colours, body sizes and natural behaviours. From the vivid blue legs of the Greenbottle Blue Tarantula to the contrasting markings of the Mexican Redknee, each species offers something distinctive for invertebrate enthusiasts.

Explore our Tarantulas for Sale category to discover the species available and learn which may suit your experience and facilities. By researching the animal's needs, preparing a secure enclosure and choosing a reputable source, you can support responsible tarantula keeping and provide an appropriate environment for your new arachnid.