Avicularia Avicularia (Pinktoe) Tarantula Care Guide
Common Name: Pinktoe Tarantula
Scientific Name: Avicularia avicularia
Lifespan: 10-12 years (females), 4-5 years (males)
Size: 4-5 inches (leg span)
This species is popular for its unique pink toes, calm demeanor, and manageable size. Avicularia avicularia is a good choice for beginner tarantula keepers, especially those interested in arboreal species.
Housing
- Enclosure Size: As an arboreal species, Avicularia avicularia requires a vertical enclosure. A 12x12x18 inch (30x30x45 cm) terrarium or similar works well. We recommend our Arboreal enclosures for the best care.
- Substrate: 1-2 inches of coco fiber, peat moss, or topsoil at the bottom. Though they are arboreal, substrate helps retain moisture. We recommend our Aracnidirt.
- Climbing Structures: Provide plenty of branches, cork bark, and fake plants for climbing and webbing. Pinktoes love to create webs in higher areas of the enclosure.
- Ventilation: Good cross-ventilation is crucial to prevent stagnant air and mold growth. Use a screen lid or an enclosure with well-placed ventilation holes.
Temperature and Humidity
- Temperature: 70-80°F (21-27°C). Room temperature is usually sufficient, though temperatures should not drop below 65°F (18°C).
- Humidity: 60-80%. Mist the enclosure lightly a few times a week to maintain humidity, but ensure the enclosure has good ventilation to prevent mold.
- Water Dish: A small shallow water dish should be provided at all times.
Diet
- Food: Feed them gut-loaded crickets, roaches, or small insects. Adults should be fed once every 7-10 days, while juveniles can be fed every 5-7 days.
- Size of Prey: Prey should be about the size of the tarantula’s abdomen. Offer smaller prey to younger individuals.
- Feeding Notes: Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours to avoid mold or stress.
Temperament/Personality
- Behavior: Avicularia avicularia is generally calm but may be skittish and jumpy when disturbed. They are fast but less likely to bite compared to other tarantulas.
- Handling: While they have a calm temperament, handling should be limited because they can leap when startled, and this can lead to injury if they fall.
Molting
- Signs of Molting: Before molting, they will stop eating and may become more sluggish or hide more frequently.
- After Molting: Allow at least a week for their exoskeleton to harden before offering food.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Spot Clean: Regularly remove any uneaten prey and waste. Because this species likes high humidity, ensure the enclosure stays mold-free by keeping proper ventilation.
- Full Cleaning: Change substrate and clean the enclosure thoroughly every 6-12 months or as needed.
General Notes
- Webbing: Avicularia avicularia is known for creating intricate web tunnels high in their enclosure. This is a natural behavior, so don't be alarmed if their webbing obscures much of the space.
- Lighting: No special lighting is needed. Avoid direct sunlight and intense heat sources.
- Activity: They are mainly nocturnal but can be seen moving about during the day. They are often visible resting in their web tunnels.
Where to find this tarantula?
- Coming soon