Theraphosa blondi
✓ VerifiedGoliath Birdeater, Goliath Bird-Eating Spider
Photo: unknown author via Wikimedia Commons
Quick Facts
Adult Size
10-11 inches
Growth Rate
fast
Temperament
defensive
Taxonomy
Community
Experience Required
Advanced
Experienced keepers only
🌡️ Climate Requirements
Temperature Range
75°F - 82°F
(24°C - 28°C)
Humidity Range
80% - 90%
🏠 Enclosure Sizes
Sling
2x2x3"
Juvenile
8x8x8"
Adult
18x18x12" or 20+ gallon tank
🪨 Substrate
Type
moist coco fiber and topsoil mix, deep and compactable
Depth
6-8 inches
🍽️ Feeding Schedule
Sling
Every 3-4 days
Juvenile
Once or twice per week
Adult
Every 1-2 weeks
Prey Size
Large prey — adult roaches, pinky mice, large crickets
💧 Additional Care Notes
Water Dish
Required
Webbing
moderate
Burrowing
Yes
🕷️ Behavior & Temperament
General Temperament
defensive
Care Guide
**Goliath Birdeater** — The world's heaviest tarantula by mass and arguably the most impressive invertebrate in the hobby. Requires very high humidity (80–90%) and deep moist substrate. Possesses Type III urticating hairs — the most irritating kind — that can become airborne and cause significant skin and respiratory irritation. Stridulates (produces a hissing sound) as a warning. Large fangs capable of delivering a painful bite even if not medically significant. Requires large enclosure, frequent feeding, and experienced handling only. Not recommended for beginners. A stunning but demanding species.
⚠️ Safety Information
Urticating Hairs
This species has urticating hairs that can cause irritation if handled. Use caution during maintenance.
Venom Potency
Venom is not considered medically significant to humans, though reactions may vary.
Species Statistics
1
Total Keepers
N/A
Community Rating
Advanced
Care Level
🕷️
Keeping Goliath Birdeater?
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