Tarantula Boarding in Essex: Tarantula Ownership Guide

As one of the few specialist small animal boarding facilities that provides tarantula boarding in Essex, we're huge fans of these amazing creatures. Owning a rescued tarantula can be a rewarding experience and while we're sad that the exotic pet trade leads to people taking on pets without knowing the specifics of how to care for them, with comprehensive guides from experts (like us!) we hope that this will help beginners and seasoned tarantula owners alike.

Understanding Your Tarantula

Before jumping into care specifics, it's vital to understand your spider. Tarantulas vary greatly in size, colour, and temperament based on their species. Common varieties include the Rose Hair, which is friendly and a good starter tarantula; the Mexican Red Knee, known for its striking colour and docile nature; and the Costa Rican Tiger Rump, which is slightly more active and can be skittish.

Knowing the specific needs of your chosen species helps ensure a healthy environment. For instance, the Rose Hair thrives in a drier habitat compared to the moisture-loving Costa Rican Tiger Rump.

Setting Up the Habitat

Creating the right habitat is essential for your tarantula's health. A well-ventilated terrarium with a secure lid is necessary to keep your pet contained. The size of the enclosure generally depends on the species, but it's best to provide at least 5-10 gallons.

Substrate and Hiding Spots

Using the correct substrate is vital for your tarantula's well-being. Consider materials like coconut fiber or peat moss as they mimic natural environments. Aim for a depth of at least two inches to allow burrowing, which many tarantulas enjoy.

Adding hiding spots, such as logs, rocks, or specially designed commercial hides can significantly reduce stress. For example, placing a piece of cork bark in your tarantula's home creates the perfect place for a tarantula to retreat to like they would in the wild. Ensure decor items are secure to avoid accidents that may harm your tarantula.

Temperature and Humidity

Most tarantulas flourish in temperatures between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). To maintain these conditions, a heat mat or ceramic heat emitter can be beneficial. However, avoid placing heat sources directly inside the enclosure as this can cause overheating.

Humidity is another critical factor. Most species prefer humidity levels between 60% to 80%. Lightly mist the enclosure once a week, but take care not to saturate the substrate. Consistent over-saturation can lead to mould growth, posing health risks to your pet.

Feeding Your Tarantula

Feeding your tarantula is a straightforward task but it's essential to get it right. Start by offering prey like crickets, mealworms, or roaches. A good guideline is to feed prey about the size of the tarantula's body width. For example, if your tarantula is one inch wide, offer prey that is about one inch long.

Feed your tarantula once a week or every few days, depending on its age and appetite. Remove any uneaten food after 24 hours to keep the enclosure clean and prevent bacterial growth.

Handling Your Tarantula

While many tarantulas can be calm, handling comes with risks for both your pet. Understand your tarantula’s temperament before attempting to handle it. For example, the Mexican Red Knee is often easier to handle than the Costa Rican Tiger Rump, which can be more defensive.

If you choose to hold your tarantula, do so in a secure environment. Avoid sudden movements that might startle it, which could trigger a defensive response. Always ensure that you are handling your tarantula over a soft surface to minimise injury should it fall.

Embracing the Journey of Tarantula Ownership

By understanding your tarantula's needs and by creating a suitable habitat, you can ensure your eight-legged friend thrives in captivity. Similar to other pets, the key to a happy tarantula lies in commitment and patience. Depending on the species and gender of your tarantula your tarantula's lifespan can range anywhere from 3 to 30+ years. Males live shorter lives than females, averaging about 3 to 4 years. Females, on the other hand, average between 10 and 20 years, with some species living over 30 years!

If you're ready to provide the care they need and are going to add a tarantula to your family, then do look at a reputable rescue as many of these misundersood creatures find themselves in animal rescue facilities. And don't forget, if you need tarantula boarding in Essex, we are quite the experts and would love to have your eight-legged friend come and stay.