Tarantula

A tarantula is a large, hairy spider belonging to the family Theraphosidae. More than 1,000 species have been described, living mainly in warm regions of the Americas, Africa, Asia and Australia. Depending on the species, it may dig a burrow lined with silk, hide beneath rocks or fallen logs, or climb into trees.

Despite their impressive appearance, tarantulas are generally shy and prefer to avoid danger. Their venom is designed to subdue small prey and is usually no more harmful to healthy people than the sting of a bee, although reactions vary. Some species also defend themselves by flicking tiny barbed hairs from their abdomen, which can irritate the skin and eyes.

Like all spiders, tarantulas have eight legs and no antennae or wings. Sensitive hairs covering their bodies detect vibrations in the ground and movements in the air, helping them locate prey or avoid predators. They feed mainly on insects but may also catch other spiders, small reptiles, amphibians or rodents if the opportunity arises.

Rather than using a web to trap food, they rely on stealth and a quick ambush. Females often live for 20 years or more, while males usually survive only a few years and die not long after reaching adulthood and mating. During growth, a tarantula sheds its entire exoskeleton several times, allowing its body to increase in size.