The curly hair tarantula, scientifically known as Brachypelma albopilosum, is a species from Nicaragua and Costa Rica. It features a round body that is covered with long bristles. The bristles are slightly curved hence the name of the spider species.
Most of the bristles are either dark brown or black. However, there are a few golden bristles. For this reason, the bristles look bronze sheen. They are common household spiders because of their temperaments.
Characteristics And Temperaments Of Curly Hair Tarantulas
Below are some primary characteristics of temperaments of the Brachypelma albopilosum;
- They are extraordinarily mellow and quiet hence the reason why they are great household pets. Therefore, if you are looking to get a lively pet, you may find these tarantulas boring.
- These tarantulas are easily scared. This means you need to refrain from handling them too much. You can have them sit on your arm or hand as long as you want.
- Do not try to keep petting or touching them because they will most definitely get scared and try to flee. You can also handle the pets while on the floor so that they have an easier time getting away when they feel spooked.
- They are very fragile pets. This means that a slight fall from a few feet can injure them badly or kill them instantly.
- When they are threatened, these tarantulas kick hairs off their abdomens as their defense mechanism. The hairs can irritate your skin, and they are very dangerous when they get in your eyes.
- They can also bite when they feel threatened. Their bite usually contains mild venom, which can cause you pain, swelling, or redness. Their bite almost resembles that of a bee sting. However, if you have allergies, the impact of the bite may be worse.
- They are dangerous pets to have around kids and other pets because of the severe impacts of their defense mechanisms. They usually sit in a restful state while trying to hunt their prey.
Note that they only start acting aggressive and dangerous when they are approaching their molting phase.
Appearance Of The Curly Hair Tarantulas
These spider species are typically plump and small. Their bristles light in coloration when the tarantulas are young. However, as they age, they tend to darken.
Male tarantulas also have a light bronze color than their female counterparts. The bristles are typically denser on the hind legs.
Curly Hair Tarantula Lifespan
Male curly hair tarantulas feature a lifespan of five years. On the other hand, their female counterparts can live up to twenty years.
What Do They Eat?
Brachypelma albopilosum eat live crickets, roaches, and other insects that do not have a larger body than theirs. When they become adults, they start getting very picky about what they eat.
Note that young ones usually have more feeding needs. You have to feed them every two days. On the other hand, large ones can last up to a whole week without feeding.
Conclusion
Curly hair tarantulas are easy to take care of because they do not face numerous health challenges. All you have to do is make sure they eat right and keep them in an ideal environment.