Do rose hair tarantulas make good pets? We write about a lot of pets like geckos and macaws, but a pet tarantula may be the "scariest" pet we've researched. This is mainly because... I'm scared of spiders!
These pets are slow-moving and must be treated with care. One expert moves their spider with long forceps! You must be careful and cautious as these spiders have fangs that can cause mechanical damage to your hand.
The Spruce Pets tells us that "this species makes a superb pet, as it's docile demeanor and low maintenance upkeep requires very little effort from its keeper."
Rose Hair Tarantula behavior and temperament
According to Josh's Frogs, the Chilean rose hair tarantula (Grammostola rosea) is one of the most common tarantulas owned as pets because are inexpensive and easy to care for.
In the wild, rose hairs live in dry grassland regions at the edge of deserts in South America. They are medium-sized, nocturnal hunters that venture out at night to hunt for food or find a potential mate.
Housing
Josh's Frogs also explains that Rose hair tarantulas can be housed in any secure, well-ventilated enclosure:
"A 10-gallon glass aquarium is recommended for an adult. A suitable guide to the minimum size needed is at least three times the length of the tarantula's leg span. The ideal enclosure should be large enough where it can roam freely, but not be overly exposed. Ensure that the cage has a secure escape-proof mesh top."
Yikes!
Food and water
The Spruce's Pets tells us Chilean rose tarantulas eat live crickets and other large, pesticide-free insects. Adult tarantulas typically only eat once or twice a week, whereas younger spiders should be fed more often as they grow.
A small water bowl placed inside your arachnid's enclosure and changed daily should keep it well hydrated.
Common health issues
Chilean Rose-Haired Tarantulas can get stressed! Hobbyists mention that if you notice erratic behavior, like hanging out at the top of their cage, then something may be bothering them.
You can talk to pet stores about the tarantula species they sell or even go to a breeder. There are so many species of tarantula to consider, but keeping tarantulas is for someone familiar with exotic pets! First-time exotic pet owners may want to consider something other than a pet spider.
You're not supposed to handle them. Experts and other tarantula owners will tell you they even have holes in the housing or terrarium to put food through so there isn't any contact with the spider.
From research, it sounds like tarantula bites are painful. Remember there is molting, too!
Are you willing to take these risks? Good luck!
Do you live with a pet tarantula? What did we miss? Please leave us a comment below!
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