Important Facts to Consider Before Getting a Curly Hair Tarantula
Thinking about getting a curly hair tarantula? You're not alone — these fuzzy, golden-bristled spiders are one of the most beginner-friendly tarantulas out there. I've kept one myself, and let me tell you, there's something oddly calming about watching them just hang out in their enclosure or slowly stalk a cricket.
But before you bring one home, there are a few things you should know to keep both you and your spider happy. Here’s the lowdown from someone who’s been there.
What Makes Curly Hair Tarantulas Great Pets
1. Super Chill Personality
Curly hairs (Tliltocatl albopilosus) are native to Central America and belong to what’s called the “New World” tarantulas. That means they’re generally docile and would rather hide than fight. Mine would retreat into her hideout if spooked — no lunging, no drama.
2. Low-Maintenance (But Not No-Maintenance)
These guys are pretty easy to care for. They eat live insects a couple of times a week, need a clean water bowl, and aren’t fussy about decor. Just keep their tank warm (75–85°F) and moderately humid (around 65–70%).
3. Affordable & Easy to Find
Most curly hairs sell for $20–$50 depending on their age. For a pet that can live up to 10 years (females), that’s a decent investment. Males only live about 4 years, though, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for a longer-term companion.
4. No Need for Handling
Honestly, tarantulas are more of a “look, don’t touch” type of pet. They don’t enjoy being handled, and while bites are rare, they can happen — especially if they feel threatened. Plus, they have these tiny defensive hairs on their abdomen that they can flick into the air. If those get in your eyes or nose... not fun.
Setting Up Their Home
Tank Size & Setup
A 5–10 gallon glass or acrylic tank works great. These are ground-dwellers, so floor space matters more than height. Use 3–4 inches of a burrow-friendly substrate like coconut fiber or peat moss. Add a hide (like a half flowerpot), a few rocks or wood pieces, and you’re good.
Temperature & Humidity
Use a ceramic heater or heat lamp to keep the tank warm. I keep a thermometer and hygrometer in the tank to monitor conditions. A shallow water bowl usually maintains the humidity, but I mist the enclosure lightly if it drops too low.
Keep it Secure
They’re not escape artists, but they can climb if given the chance. Make sure the lid is secure and that any ventilation holes are too small for them to squeeze through.
Feeding & Molting
Feeding Schedule
Feed 1–2 times a week with crickets, mealworms, or roaches — nothing bigger than half their abdomen. Always use store-bought insects; wild bugs can carry pesticides or parasites.
Molting Time = Quiet Time
Molting is how tarantulas grow — they shed their old exoskeleton. Young spiders do it more often, adults maybe once a year. During this time, don’t feed them and remove any live prey from the tank. It can take hours or days, and they’re super vulnerable during and after. Just let them be.
A Few Extra Tips
- Don’t cohabitate: Even if you have two tarantulas, keep them in separate enclosures. They’re not social, and cannibalism is a real risk.
- Watch for health issues: Curly hairs are hardy, but molting problems or oral parasites (like nematodes) can happen. Find a vet experienced with exotics just in case.
- Handling? Only if you’re experienced. If you insist, gently encourage the spider to walk onto your hand, or pick them up from behind between the second and third set of legs. But really — they’re happiest being left alone.
So, Is a Curly Hair Tarantula Right for You?
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, fascinating pet that’s easy to care for and doesn’t require cuddling, the curly hair tarantula is a solid choice. They’re calm, beautiful, and surprisingly soothing to watch. Just make sure you’re not allergic to insect venom (some people who react to bee stings might also react to tarantula bites) and don’t have small kids sticking fingers in the tank.
They’re not for everyone, but for the right person? They’re an awesome, underrated pet.