Red Rump

GEO-LOCATION

This tarantula is native to Mexico and is frequently found in Belize, El Salvador and Guatemala.

HABITAT

It can be found in deep burrows in scrubland.

CHARACTERISTICS

a) Common Name

Red Rump.

b) Type

Terrestrial burrower.

c) Temperament

The Red Rump tarantula can be skittish and aggressive.

d) Colouration

Strikingly red hairs cover the abdomen and the rest of the tarantula is covered in black hairs.

e) Growth

Slow.

f) Full Grown Size

13cm  (5 inches).

g) Lifespan

Females: 15+ years. Males generally live less than half that.

KEEPING THIS SPIDER IN CAPTIVITY

a) Cage setup

Spiderlings can live in a clear plastic container with air holes. Adults can live in a 1ft (10-gallon) tank. Floor space is more important than height.

b) Substrate

At least 10 - 15cm (4 - 6 inches) of peat.

c) Decor

No decorations are really needed, but you can add plastic plants, rocks and driftwood.

d) Temperature

24 – 27°C (75 - 80°F)

e) Humidity

75 to 85%

f) Water source

Sub-adults – adults may drink from a shallow, wide water dish.

g) Feeding

Spiderlings can be fed on pinhead crickets and other small insects. Adults can be fed on large crickets and other large insects, as well as an occasional pinkie mouse.