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You are here: Experts > Animals/Pets > Exotic Pets > Tarantula Spiders > just some basic questions
Expert: Jenna
Date: 9/8/2008
Subject: just some basic questions
Question
So i work at a pet store im the head of the fish/reptile department and a current employee of mine owns a pret tarantula. I'm not sure of what kind of tarantula it is but he wants to get rid of it and I can either take it myself or take it to the store. So I just wanted to know what kind of bedding, the heating (I assumed under tank heater for humidity), space (i assumed about a 10 gallon tank), feeding (he feeds crickets once a week), etc. So any information or further advice, anything would be greatluy appreciated.
Answer
Hey Jordan
The most typical you are going to encounter are either the Zebra or the Rose-Haired (Also known as the Chilean). They can use either the bark (Zoo-Med and Zilla each have their own) or the Forest Bedding (Also marketed as Eco Earth). The Forest bedding is the expandable substrate soil/coconut mix. It's more of a pain to make up but it holds water a little better and looks better imo. Undertank heaters seem to be the best for these guys as it really helps keep that humidity at a good level. 10 gallon is perfect. They really dont' need much space as they don't move much. An adult tarantula will usually eat once a week anywhere from 1-4 crickets. Each has their own appetite so you'll just have to watch to see how much he/she wants.
If he hasn't handled it much, do it with care. I love holding them but I am very respectful of their attitude. If they are at ALL defensive about being picked up DON'T do it. As you probably know a drop of 12 inches can kill them so I always prefer to handle over a tabletop. Many don't handle theirs at all but I want any tarantula at least semi-used to being touched by me just in case of emergency.
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