Tarantula

A spider that is commonly found in the desert areas of the southwestern United States is the tarantula. Larger species of this spider are also found in the tropical areas of South America. The desert tarantula is generally a quiet creature. It is nocturnal and may reach lengths of up to three inches. Female tarantulas are larger and heavier than males and are blond to brown in coloring. They have impressive fangs but will rarely bite, possibly because their eyesight is very bad. Their bite is mildly poisonous but it is no more dangerous than a bee sting. Males are black with reddish hairs on their abdomens. Males are usually the ones that are seen at night, in search of a mate.

Tarantulas make their homes in holes about one foot deep with a chamber off to the side. They line this with silk and when hunting for food, extend silken strands outside of the hole. The spider waits in its chamber for any movement in the strands. Movement alerts the spider to potential prey that may be wandering near its home. When it isn't hunting, the tarantula will spin a thin layer of silk across the top of its hole. Tarantulas eat grasshoppers, locust, flies, and mosquitoes. Their main defense is to fling thousands of tiny hairs into the air. These hairs are very irritating and can potentially damage the cornea of an eye. Tarantulas, like all spiders, are not insects. They are classified as Arachnids because they have eight legs instead of six, and do not have wings or antennae.

Navajo word display problems? Please install the Verdana Navajo font, downloadable by clicking HERE.

Any copyrighted materials present are believed to be available through Fair Use. Please contact the Webmaster if you believe something should be removed.

© 2003 San Juan School District
Questions or comments? Email the Webmaster