How to Buy a Pet Tarantula

Tarantulas make interesting pets even if they don't fetch the morning paper. There are many factors to consider when buying one. Take some time to think your purchase through, navigate the web of choices and stay out of sticky situations.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Consider personality differences between species. Some tarantulas are aggressive and tend to flick irritating hairs while others do almost nothing. Know what type of personality you want in your new pet.
2. Create the perfect environment for the particular species you choose. Many tarantulas die within the first few weeks because their new home isn't exactly what they need. Consider the humidity, temperature and terrain your new pet needs. If the variety you are interested in seems too high maintenance look into other varieties. Many are easy but others are not.
3. Know the spider's diet needs and be prepared to feed it anything from fruit flies to crickets to mice. Ask the employees at the pet store what your tarantula craves.
4. Ask if the tarantula you are interested in buying is male or female. Male tarantulas die about 1 year after they reach full maturity. Females can live for many years.
5. Examine how the tarantula is standing. If it's legs are tucked up underneath itself, don't buy it. Also check its reaction time. A spider that is slow to respond is likely sick or dying.
6. Find a pet store that consistently sells live insects. Tarantulas need live food. It is dangerous to feed your pet insects that you found in the house. They may carry pesticides that will kill your spider.
7. Buy your tarantula along with an appropriately-sized container and a live meal. Enjoy watching your new pet as it traps its main course and eats from the inside out. It's a bit like having a cricket milkshake.