Just like all other spiders, tarantulas are thought of to be terrifying creatures that are ready to attack at any given moment.
This is simply not true.
Although some types of tarantulas are considered the biggest spiders in the world, the most dangerous spiders can be found untamed in woodpiles and dark corners around your own home.
Most tarantulas have a quite timid, but curious attitude; some types are more aggressive than others, but still don’t pose a huge threat to humans. Their venom is actually less lethal than a bee sting, and the bite itself is comparable to just that.
Tarantulas have the ability to “dry bite,” or bite without injecting venom. As a first line of defense, they are able to flick hairs from their abdomen. For humans, it may cause severe itching to the site.
The most dangerous spiders found in North America, such as the brown recluse and the black widow, have much more dangerous venom and pose a bigger threat to our well being — but it’s still rare for these spiders to actually kill a human being. And even after being bit by both types, my boyfriend still allowed me to bring a tarantula to keep as a pet at our house.
I am choosing not to handle my tarantula, simply because it doesn’t benefit her in the least bit. If a tarantula falls from a distance as short as three feet, their bodies can shatter and it can kill them. Not all animals are meant to be handled; some should be admired from afar. You wouldn’t buy a fish to cuddle it, would you? No. I have two cats that I can hold and pet whenever I please.
What most people don’t realize is that despite the threatening looks, tarantulas are quite sensitive and hardly harmful.
They do not feed on human flesh and blood, they feed on two to four crickets every two weeks and must always have fresh water available to them. They also must be kept at certain temperatures and humidity levels. This is especially important when the tarantula is approaching a molt, which is similar to a snake shedding its skin. It is how a tarantula grows.
What I don’t understand is how everyone seems to be afraid of spiders. I can understand if someone had a traumatic experience with arachnids, but most people haven’t. It’s extremely rare for a person to die from a spider bite and in the tarantulas’ case, there are no recorded deaths due to a bite.
It is believed that humans are born with the fear of falling and loud noises. All other fears are learned.
When it came to bugs my dad always said, “Don’t mess with it, if it ain’t messin’ with you.” I still have this mindset, even with house spiders, and it has proven to be successful thus far.
What I’m asking you is to stop with the irrational fear of spiders. The most harm a spider bite can cause (excluding brown recluses and black widows) is severe itching and a possible scab. Give tarantulas a chance. Tarantulas need love too.