The Truth About Old World Tarantulas - A Discussion and Keeper's Guide

[@mikewaterfield3599]

This is why I like Dave’s little beasties. Everyone of his videos are very calm and drama free.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

We try to do that here too, Mike! My whole goal when beginning this channel years ago was to show that rehousings could be calm.

[@CaroleEvans93436]

@@TomsBigSpiders We rehoused our female B Hamorii a couple of weeks ago. I gently went in with a catch tub and a very soft brush. She slapped the ground and went into a threat pose......I was so glad when she eventually calmed down. My T Vagans was amazing - yet, they have a bad reputation

[@marjorieinverts]

YES! Both Tom and Dave are the best and WAY underrated

[@FeebsTarantulas]

@@TomsBigSpidersI think he was responding to the part where you’re talking about KZbinrs over exaggerating how scary and aggressive Ts are - not saying your channel wasn’t good or anything. ‘My tarantula ate my family’ made me laugh haha

[@mrzmorphine]

I do enjoy Dave and camera lady as well 🥰

[@chrisvandrese181]

Awesome intro! It’s crazy how misunderstood spiders are. They are beautiful creatures who would rather hide then attack anyone.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Chris! And that is so true!

[@gauchesymbiote1039]

Sometimes they'd rather cry in a corner because you splashed water on their toe.

[@YouTubeSucks666]

😊

[@krystalkingston5784]

I really appreciate this video. I didn’t realize how ingrained in my brain the fear of old worlds had become until I ordered 4 old world slings that are on all of the beginner lists. I’ve kept tarantulas for 6 years and even though I did my research and the old worlds haven’t given me any reason to be so afraid of them, I have had a terrible anxiety every time I do my husbandry with them. I will be rehousing soon and have been dreading it even though I have done so many rehousings and really just need to chill out. Thanks for all of your videos! I am definitely a much better keeper because of you’re dedication to the hobby.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I think that many of us have been there, Krystal. We're bombarded by folks telling us how "scary" they are from day one, and that can be difficult to overcome. I hope that your rehousings go well!

[@detroitsound9364]

How did the rehousing go?

[@Christinas_creatures]

I got my C versicolor Nov 2021 and bought an OBT 2 weeks later because I apparently like challenges. I've never regretted it one bit -I have about an equal number of new and old world. They are literally my sanity some days. Nothing better than locking myself away with my little ones and caring for them. I love your videos and think you do an amazing job to educate people -Thank you!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome, Christina! And this room is my happy place as well. haha Thank you!

[@Mooosetank]

I did the exact same thing ❤

[@pennystreet8183]

As you said. In Australia. We only have old worlds 😂 someone asked me was I frightened of being bitten. I just answered Have you ever been bitten by a cockatoo 😅 have you ever been scratched by a cat. And what about a dog bite. All animals deserve respect. All animals can harm you if you don’t treat them right. Thank you Tom. You did very well putting this across 😊 Love from Australia

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Greetings from the US, Penny! Thank you so much for chiming in! I LOVE when people tell folks that they should never start with an Old World tarantula. I'm always like, "The Aussies do it all of the time!". :) And I couldn't agree more! Thank you!

[@riiidiculoso8697]

@@TomsBigSpidersAussies are adept with a catch-cup from childhood😁

[@TomsBigSpiders]

@@riiidiculoso8697 Hahaha Great point! :)

[@ThomasTheArachnerd]

My old house was in front of a tiny jungle. As a result, I frequently encounter huntsman spiders and centipedes that wander into my home. The experience I gained from temporarily keeping these amazing animals made keeping old worlds for me a breeze 😌

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome, Krishen! People think that old worlds are fast, but they have nothing when compared to huntsman!

[@billyjack4772]

Finally.....a video that covers OW T's for new keepers and those only been keeping a short time. This video covers it all perfectly.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much! I had the idea for this over 3 years ago, and I'm glad that I finally got it made!

[@elainebines6803]

You and Dave's little Beasties I have great respect for. Thank you for an amazing and informative video. We can now make educated choices 😘

[@migueltonnies6856]

The guys to watch, both of them. But notice that in Europe people do not overstress the OW risk. The exaggerated warnings are, imho, a US thing.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Elaine! I really appreciate it.

[@amberdawn0011]

I got an OBT as my 3rd or 4th T I think it was, fairly early on anyways. I've never regretted it! She's pretty defensive but has never been too crazy, and of course I'll never try handling her. She's an amazing display animal with a top notch food response and gorgeous color! I'm glad I got an old world early on, it gave me the confidence to try others and it's been amazing!

[@FUCKTHEBBC]

never had struggles with my OBT also but I keep her in a big enclosure for her size and she is semi-aboreal housed but I have to admit I got her really late compared to other spiders of my OW collection

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Amber! That's the thing; I think that most folks realize rather quickly that you just need to give them space and respect. They do NOT want to kill us. haha They are just nervous and trying to defend themselves.

[@AhstTraotee]

@@TomsBigSpiders Got a juvenile OBT as my fourth T and first Old World (after a B. hamorii, a T. blondi that sadly died before reaching maturity, and a GBB); he was the only juvenile left on our local shop's shelf and I felt bad for him, haha. He turned out to be a male that reached maturity while still... a little small. He's got a legspan of maybe 3-4 inches, but he has his tibial hooks! He's also been the most chill little spider; we've been able to take a few nice photos of him as he's grown up, and we've never seen a threat pose from him yet.

[@annikkirahko6714]

I got my first old world as a freebie but he’s been super chill. I have 6 spoods now including a p. Metallica and she’s super sweet

[@FeebsTarantulas]

Why in the 5 years of keeping has not one of your videos come up for me ??? I hate KZbin. It’s discoverability is SHOCKING. I found you from Sean’s spoods and tarantula ramblings who told me about you! Glad to be here. Amazing videos.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Feebs! Awwww...I'll definitely have to thank Sean and Tarantula Ramblings, as I truly appreciate word-of-mouth recommendations. They rock. I've been doing this for a while, but I'm kind of like that underground band that only the cool kids seem to have heard of. Haha Thank you so much for checking this out!

[@FeebsTarantulas]

@@TomsBigSpiders hahahah those are the best kinds!!!!! Well I hope KZbin push you to everyone asap, you deserve it !!

[@DabDaddii]

Hey Tom, here to provide you with your favorite type of comment. November marks 1 year with jumping spiders, January is 1 year of tarantula ownership. I just got my first OW 9 months into keeping, and it was all because since this video has come out I have been dilligently researching which old world I wanted to get. Please to say I have landed on a Harpactira pulchripes, and so far I would agree that these are very shy creatures compared to my moody new worlds.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Jason! Ha! Thank you so much for the feedback, and congrats on your upcoming anniversary!

[@marjorieinverts]

I had to hop on my computer so I could type this as fast as I'm thinking it! TOM!!! You are SUCH a blessing to our community. This is one of the most important and special videos our community will ever see, and the education you are giving is PRICELESS. I am REALLY starting to see more and more "influencers" using their tarantulas and other inverts for click bait and their handling, attitudes and sell-out behavior is SO obvious that they are "in" the hobby for all the wrong reasons. There are even some influencers I liked in the beginning of getting into the hobby that I can't even watch anymore because they've "sold out" or just seem to not have their heart in it anymore, just the money. So much bad information out there, so many lies. You are the true hero. I've only been in the hobby for almost 2 years and the amount of information I have learned is unfathomable. I started at 40 years old and I've had a lot of hobbies but I can tell you, this one has given me more joy than any other ones. Being able to care for and watch such amazing animals is such a blessing in my life. The community is (for the most part) amazing with amazing people. When people ask me about tarantulas, spiders, and inverts I get so excited to educate them, but at the same time, I know I could go on and on for hours and it probably won't matter, but I know that ONE mind I can change about spiders is the one thing I can be proud of. I was amazed at your "Ladder System" because I have been doing EXACTLY that for the last 2 years and didn't even realize it! Thank you thank you thank you for all of your incredible contributions to our community, and all the years of wonderful information, education, and truth. There's so much more I want to say but I'll shut up now lol

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Wow, thank you so much, Marjorie! I think that I have a different perspective from most folks who do the KZbin thing because I never got into this to make money or be popular. I had a website and I realized that I could explain some things better through videos. I get folks wanting to be popular or to make money because of their animals, but it always seems to turn into exploitation. I'm so glad that you're using a type of ladder system! That's awesome. Thank YOU for taking the time to comment and for appreciating what I'm trying to do!

[@JohnBlacklock]

I've only been a keeper for almost two years. I started with 3 new world ts. A b,Emilia and a b, bohemi, then a got an anthescuria geniculata. All slings. Then i got my first old world t. A p Metallica after 6 months. They are all doing very well,eating and moulting and growing well. As a former arachnophobia sufferer, your channel has been an inspiration and showed me how beautiful they all are. Thank you for all your valuable information. Keep up the great work.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, John! It's comments like these that remind me why I still do this stuff! :)

[@vanessasmith5227]

Great informative video Tom. My first OW was actually a pokie, P ornata, in a mystery box that I ordered, asking for NW only; I had won a P irminia from the person a few months prior and they knew thatbI was actually more than capable of looking after an OW I just doubted myself, hence the inclusion in my mystery box. I am really glad they did, I now love pokies and know that all of mine would rather retreat into their corkbark tube hides than be defensive. I have since got a few OW baboons which I also love, along with 1 Asian fossorials; I have a very healthy respect for this one 😂😊

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Vanessa! My first large OW was a P. vittata, so I'm with you there! After keeping her for a while, I realized that I was probably missing out on other species. Thanks so much!

[@vanessasmith5227]

@TomsBigSpiders oh, P vittata is on my to get list 😄 I've now got my P ornata, P metallica, P subfusca lowland, P miranda. I did have a P tigrinawesseli, but sadly I lost that one to a bad moult, I must get a replacement. Just rehoused two M balfouri this afternoon 😃

[@cynicallemonade1792]

I'm Australian and just got my first tarantula, a Phlogius sarina. Its only a juvenile at the moment but I love it already. It does have an attitude for sure but I think that makes it fun to feed and care for. Its pretty cute.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome! I would love to have one of those! :)

[@LBPFTW10347]

Great video! I was a keeper in high school (it was my biggest hobby and thank goodness my mother allowed me to own such amazing animals after doing the proper research!) and I worked my way up the ladder with a G. Rosea up to E. Murinus before I hit my threshold with an H. Lividum. Taking care of her was an incredible experience, it made me have a much better understanding and respect for the "aggressive" species. I hope more people watch this and get a better understanding of the more challenging types of T's to own, while still maintaining that there's an exception for every assumption one could make about them. My current T is a G. Rosea and she's actually quite defensive for her species!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Man, I wish my mom had let me keep them when I was in high school. haha She wouldn't budge. As for the defensive species, I think the trick is to give them the correct setups, some space, and treat them with respect. All of my old world tarantulas would rather run and hide first when disturbed rather than stand their ground. I get more threat postures from the new world species!

[@MrRMB1]

Pay attention! No texting while feeding your Old World! Thanks Tom, another great video full of info. I'm still sticking with the New Worlds. They are just as interesting and satisfying to care for, without handling.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much! And that's definitely your choice. :)

[@jakubreszka5896]

I’m still gaining experience and confidence with my Old Worlds and rehousing was always kinda stressful, yesterday I rehoused my P. regalis with the cardboard and catch up method and it was sooooo much easier! Immediately a confidence boost, thanks a lot for showing this way!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm so glad that trick worked for you and made things less stressful! :)

[@spacee9555]

I want an OBT someday, I think their lil threat postures are so cute and their so bright and pretty!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

They are one of my favorite species. I LOVE the orange.

[@wastelandsniper789]

I don't really consider myself to be easily intimidated when it comes to something I get into as a hobby (when I get into a hobby, I dive in hard). But I'm not gonna lie, when I first started getting into tarantulas a couple of months ago, the intense view of the overall community regarding old world tarantulas really put me off of the idea of ever even wanting one. Then I ran across and started watching the Dave's Little Beasties channel, where I have yet to find a threat display in a single video where he's rehousing or pulling egg sacs from an OBT. From everything I'd seen up to that point, that was unheard of. I even jokingly left a comment on one video that his OBT was broken. I've also watched a lot of his videos of pokies and I think I may have seen one actual threat display. That channel alone has me seriously contemplating not just acquiring old world species like the P. metallica or the O. violaceopes, but also getting into breeding some species of spiders that are hard to get just to help make them more available in the hobby (T. seladonia being a notable example in the US). I had *zero* intention of breeding when I got my first tarantula. Incidentally, I have been making a conscious effort to stay away from click-baity titled videos because I hate the way they are affecting the video economy on sites like KZbin. I'd so much rather watch a video with a title that accurately reflects the content of the video, and not one with a title that sounds more like a bullet on an Enlisted Performance Report in the Air Force, where picking up a piece of trash is made to sound like you single-handedly saved the entire ecosystem surrounding the base.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yup, Dave is definitely one of the good ones! And that's what I've been trying to show people on my channel for years. I pride myself on the safe and calm rehousings, and I hope that they show folks that they aren't as scary and uncontrollable as some will make them out to be.

[@jasonashdown7358]

I started with old worlds 1st ,but how lovely they are, I ended up getting loads of new worlds aswell, because they stayed out in the open more so I could see them more often .I did have previous experience in many animals and had good success in the past with my confidence. Awesome as always sir

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Jason! I started with NWs but quickly jumped into OWs. I love both! haha

[@MaidOfFire]

Great discussion on OW's. I keep both horses and tarantulas and it's wild how many people will cringe and call me crazy over my T's vs my horses. None of my T's have even haired me yet, but my horses have broken at least six of my bones. The cute & fluffy bias is so real lol.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much for chiming in with this! There are SO many activities that are more dangerous than keeping old world. It totally is real.

[@Spyder0000]

THANK YOU for sharing the truth about OLD WORLD TARANTULAS and hopefully changing some minds!!!❤❤❤

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Roy! Since putting this one out, I've heard from many folks who have given them a shot and who are loving them. :)

[@AdsArachnids]

That intro could have been from any number of channels and I am here for the comedic slating. 😂 I've got no idea how someone can claim to love an animal while partaking in a vilification hatchet job for fear mongering clicks. An absolute hypocritical contradiction. I've often asked if certain people genuinely love these animals or simply love the attention they get from them. I got into Old World Tarantulas early thanks to your advice and balanced view on them and haven't had a single issue. They do however get healthy respect and gentle treatment which has served me well so far. Thank you for sharing such a balanced take.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I almost took that intro off, but Billie told me to keep it. I'm glad that it's on there, as that's how I feel about that crap. Don't tell me you "love tarantulas" and then call them "dangerous" or "evil." I agree COMPLETELY that for many, it's just the attention they get from them. Pathetic. Thanks for always being a voice of reason and for watching, bud! :)

[@AngelaEmerick-km6xo]

Been following you for a while just want to say I appreciate you SO much.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Angela! Thank you so much!

[@js92css]

Cool shirt, me and my wife just watched it a few weeks ago. She's always loved it

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you...and that's awesome!

[@Backsplash69]

As an Aussie with two 2.5 year old phlogius crassipes, I have had zero issues so far. My guys are flighty but with enough dirt to have deep burrows they keep themselves well out of the way the moment I touch their enclosure lid. I think even if new world's were an option for me I would honestly prefer the behaviour of my OW's over dealing with urticating hairs.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yeah, they're fast, but mine have all burrowed and stayed hidden. I've had no issues1

[@NeilFraser-tn5ws]

Have to agree about the hairs, as another Aussie I'm happy we don't have that issue would scare me more than being bitten

[@elorine1535]

Thank you so much for adding both imperial and metric! Its so frustrating having to convert consistently. I really appreciate the effort you put into your videos!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

You're most welcome! Someone suggested that years ago, and I've done it ever since. :)

[@dankauffman8568]

Yeah Tom ! All this advice will benefit any keepers . New and old worlds alike .

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Dan!

[@lucnadeau2821]

The intro had me in stiches ! Almost spat out my coffee, ha ha ha ! Highly informative video, Tom. Can't argue with your picks for starter Old Worlds, glad to see I. mira getting a mention. They look amazing IMO. Stay safe and thanks for sharing :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Luc! I'm glad that people got the intro, as I was a little worried. Billie convinced me to keep it. haha Those I. mira are adorable and quite shy, so I was glad to add them to the list. As always, thanks for watching and commenting! Have a great weekend!

[@keithhughes4268]

Great video Tom, as i am in Australia and can only have Australian old world tarantulas and have been keeping for just over two years so am still new and learning all the time, i got into the hobby because i had a fear of spiders, after about four months of research i bought my first phogius sling, i now have 16 "T's" from phlogius, selenotholus, and selenotypus families, from slings to young adults, i have had no threat posses and they have been calm during rehousing and feeding, none of mine show the great feeding response i see on line they tend to retreat into their burrows instead, once again great video. Keith from down under.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Keith! I'm totally jealous of your Australian tarantula collection! haha We can only get a handful of species over here. My S. crassipes is one of the most secretive species I have. Thanks so much!

[@SnapRasta]

My next 2 T's i want are the H mac and the T.blondie since I have done about 6 months of research on them. Your videos are a great source of information since you respect your animals and you treat them all the same whether New world or Old world. I have been watching you and listening to your podcast for many years. You have helped me along the way of my keeping. I always go to your videos or your podcast to see if you have made a species spotlight on the T I am trying to learn about before i pick a new T up. Thank you for all the great tips and information you give.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Two awesome species there; I love both! And I'm so glad that you find this stuff to be useful! Thank you so much for taking the time to comment!

[@milofitz400]

Great tips and information about old worlds! I remember when I got my first and only old world atm, an h mac, I was pretty nervous about buying it while in the reptile store. The owner made the point that they’re just about as dangerous and demonized as a pit bull, and are you afraid of pit bulls? Well, no, I guess I’m not. So that sure changed my mind about old worlds and I’m happy that I decided to take the plunge into keeping old world species. Just like you said, with a healthy amount of caution and respect, they’re not too different from keeping a new world tarantula. I have yet to rehouse the little guy, which I’m a bit nervous about, but I know by following all the tips in this video I can manage a rehousing safely for both of us. Thanks Tom! Looking forward to getting more old world species!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Sorry for the late reply! Yeah, as someone who has three pitbulls, they have a similar reputation. Once again, it comes down to responsible owners. I'm glad that you took a chance on them, and I hope that your rehousing goes smoothly.

[@rain89skarlet80]

yes clickbait it is an issue here on youtube . i bought my first tarantula last month (sling) , an old world Ornithoctunus aureotibialis (thai golden fringe). why an old world as a beginner? simple reason...i love and just want this one species. if i should get biten then its my fault not the tarantulas. its my job to get enough informations for save rehousing, feeding ect...and this channel is full with useful information so thank you Tom! :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Man, congrats on your O. aurotibialis...what a beautiful spider! And, yes...KZbin is full of it. That's why I hate being lumped in as a "Pet Tuber", as I'm not doing this for money and views.

[@rain89skarlet80]

@@TomsBigSpiders And thats the reason why youre channel has sooo much value for everyone ;) you are a good entertaining guy armed with knowledge and experience so keep the spirit high ! :)

[@haxan6663]

Excellent info. I started keeping tarantulas in the mid 80s and so remember the P. murinus first coming into the hobby ( and P. vorax, which I haven't seen for years). I was given a few murinus by keepers who were scared of them. Usually they were keeping them in small enclosures, with nowhere to hide. I never had an issue with them, once they had enough space and plenty of things to attach web to. I kept tarantulas and scorpions for about 25 years and was never bitten and never even came close. I didn't attempt to handle my spiders, apart from a G. cala, that seemed to like calmly walking onto my hand and an incident with a P. regalis that jumped out of it's enclosure and ended up on my back! I had to wait until I could reach it, by watching it in a mirror! Considering getting back into the hobby as I am still facinated by these beautiful creatures.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much! I currently have 8 P. murinus, and I have zero issues with them. I think that a lot of their reputation is overblown or encouraged by folks who don't give them enough room. It's sad, really. And I'm the same way with the handling - I don't do it. They get nothing out of it and it just creates risk. And that's crazy with the P. regalis! I'm so glad that it went well. I do hope that you pick a couple up again. :)

[@speedburger5410]

I started this hobby exactly a month ago and I've amassed 20 new world tarantulas and 15 scorpions since then. Yesterday I ordered my first old worlds; a P. metallica, an A. breyeri, C. darlingi, and C. meridionalis. Wish me luck!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

It's just so addictive. haha Best of luck!

[@DMcC]

Great video Tom and a welcome one as I'm apprehensive myself with respect to keeping old worlds, mostly due to the trend to them being fast. My new worlds get speedy sometimes but even if they zip about for whatever reason I still feel a relatively chill vibe from them. As a huge fan of true spiders in particular, I'd imagine I'll end up with a Hogna one day and maybe that will be the experience that gets me more comfortable with a faster spider and I'll take the plunge with an old world T.

[@FUCKTHEBBC]

the true spiders are fast fast :D

[@TomsBigSpiders]

@@FUCKTHEBBC My huntsman run circles around my Old Worlds. They are FAST. haha

[@TomsBigSpiders]

There's absolutely no rush to get into them! At some point, when you feel ready, they'll be there! Thank you!

[@wasabijim]

Once again an awesome video. I just got back in to tarantulas after going to an expo in June where I picked up 2 (C, versicolor sling and a A. Chalcodes sub adult). Since then I have picked up 2 more (B. albiceps and C. cyaneopubescens) for a total of 4 now. All NW but after some time with these and a few rehouses later I would really like to get either an M. balfouri or a P. metalica.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello! Thanks so much, and welcome back to the hobby. Sounds like you picked up some awesome species!

[@nickshearer3091]

Great video Tom very well said. Bringing the truth 8 legs at a time. From my own opinion my old worlds are quick to hide rather then throw a threat pose where as I can't walk past my gbb enclosure with out her kickin hairs. A healthy respect is necessary but fear isn't warranted.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

And that's a great point, Danny! Many new world species are out in the open, so you're more likely to get defensiveness from them. If given the room to hide, old worlds will usually run first! Thanks!

[@melaniezagata4402]

Hi Tom. Happy new year! I thought the video was very good, you gave a lot of information about spiders themselves Old Worlds that is. I believe anyone wanting to get a. Tarantula should learn about them first, from watching an experienced keeper or keepers. There is a lot to learn about Tarantulas. I find them to be amazing creatures!❤❤❤❤❤ Love your Chanel Tom!❤❤❤❤❤😊

[@jaredmouro4952]

No hype, just spider love. This is why I love this channel. Though, it's hilarious to hear Tom say that they will "bite your f**ing face off" LOL

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much Jared! hahaha Yeah, I'm not going to lie...I had fun doing that. ;)

[@txaggievet]

Great Video... We have 3 new world and love them, I was NOT even thinking about an old world, because of all the negative things I have watched., was definitely worried about aggressiveness and speed, your video has been very informative, I am not yet ready for an old world yet, but I will consider one in the future after I get a little more experience under my belt.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm so glad that this video actually has you reconsidering. The whole point of it was to portray them realistically to let people make decisions with the correct information. Thank you!

[@HectorDobezilla]

Thank you for this video. After watching it I decided to get some old world tarantulas and I absolutely adore them. I love your channel so much.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Hector! Thats so awesome! Thank you!!!

[@ahmadeido8245]

Thank you so much for this video, this is exactly what I was looking for , after keeping 5 new world, I am ready for old world but all what people told me is that I shouldn’t ever. Thank you again

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm so glad that you found this helpful! Yeah, I think that we do them an injustice in scaring people away from them.

[@321cynth]

This was such an informative and calm video! Thank you. I appreciate your approach and I still will NEVER have one of these in my possession.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much! And that's totally cool!

[@evorizchu]

ok this is awesome and yet, informative! Nice video Tom!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much!

[@anitabryant8062]

Awesome, informative video! I'm a new keeper that jumped the gun, adding 4 old world T's to my collection. They are ones you mentioned in this video. C marshalli, h pulchripes, i mira, and a surprise freebie p irminia...I guess someone thought I was up for the task by my order. I am soaking up every bit of information I can get to make sure I do right by my new little charges. Nothing but respect for all of my slings, old world, and new world. Thank you so much for this video❤

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Sounds like you started with the right ones, Anita! Honestly, if kept correctly, the only time you may experience trouble is during rehousings. And I honestly believe that it's possible to rehouse in a way that there is no room for escape or friction.

[@tarantularamblings3149]

Such a great video Tom, possibly your best ever .I can see myself sharing and recomending this video for years to come in the same way i do with your sling guide and keepers choice best beginer list . I think this video really needed to be made as a counter to the stupid unsafe videos from ***** lair and **** den . Keep up the great work .

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much; I truly appreciate that! I'm hoping that, in the very least, some folks who are on the fence might see this and rethink the whole thing.

[@tarantularamblings3149]

@@TomsBigSpiders Yes I think you are correct . It was listening to your complete back catalog of podcasts that convinced me to get into old world tarantulas .

[@Kaiyo_no_Ookami]

This is why I watch a variety of Tarantula keepers on YT. Lots of different perspectives. I only recently subscribed (thanks to Tarantula Kat), and I love the balance between the clear, concise facts (and/or very well supported observation) and the calm approach you take. I’m aiming to become a first time keeper in the next few months. Definitely looking at New World Ts to start with. Though there is one Old World that grabbed my attention, the Idiothele mira, but as soon as I realized it was OW, I kind of wrote it off. This changed my mind. I’m still not rushing into OWs, but now I feel like I would probably be fine with the I. mira at some point down the road. Thank you!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That is so awesome. There is NO need to rush at all; I just hate hearing people swear them off because of the stuff they have seen about them (much of it over the top and ridiculous). They really are amazing spiders. When you get one, be sure to let me know! :) Thanks!

[@Kaiyo_no_Ookami]

@@TomsBigSpiders Definitely!

[@destroymysilence]

I got an OBT 3 weeks into keeping. He definitely was a lil crabby but he settled in. I now have 5 old worlds and i love them all so very much. I respect them and i have no issues.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm glad to hear that he settled down for you! And that is the key; respect them and give them space, and you'll be just fine. Thanks for chiming in! :)

[@lisafosc]

The intro really made me laugh! Another fabulous video Sir Moran, I was pleased to see you managed to include clips from the P metalica rehouse as I thought that was a such a valuable video the first time I saw it. I can think of a few people that would appreciate this so I will be sure to share. As always THANKYOU xx

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm glad that people "got" that. haha I was afraid that some folks would think that I was being serious! haha Yeah, I REALLY wanted to put that one in there, because it shows that you can rehouse multiple OWs without issue! Thanks!

[@2good4trash63]

Hi Tom! I like that Video because in my hobby collection of about 40 Animals i have only 4 New world species the rest are old worlds! I started 2-3 years ago with one new world and 3 old world because i didn‘t know much about old world new world i just knew i want a tarantula!! When i received them (all slings) i started to put them in small boxes and raise them! I wanted to give them a good live so i started to watch some videos on yt and now i got in touch with old world and new world that was only time ever i had a bit of fear of them the next weeks i was always a bit frightened and feared to work with them! But this changed fast after all my time i can say for me its much more easier to avoid to get bitten then to work with all the irritating hairs of new worlds! For me in hobby when i need to do a rehouse i look at my spider when i start to work with her i see relatively soon whats her todays mood and yeah i sometimes decide to postpone the rehouse to next or 2 days later and then it‘s easy! My spiders also have good days and bad days and i don‘t need to rehouse her an a day where she don‘t want to see anybody!!😂😂 But i really apreciate this video necause so much people and i too see other videos and start to fear them! When you see an obt attacking an finger or something you get fear thats normal with a bit expierence you see why this spider acts like this and then you recognize hey its just a spider like all others are too only difference its orange!! Thanks tom have a nice day!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm so glad to hear that you got over your fear of them. I hear from a lot of folks who eventually stop keeping NW species because the hairs bother them too much. And you bring up an excelelnt point about checking the mood before you rehouse. Thanks for chiming in!

[@JeffR.-ne4zg]

Thank you Sir! That’s exactly what happened. I was trying to comment on favorites in my collection and your Old World video auto played. I jumped right in to Old Worlds with The OBT. I have a few other species of old world now, but I believe OBT is still my favorite

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahaha Glad that it's not just me. I love OBTs myself!

[@3Y3ECE]

I appreciate this video, and subscribed. I'm tired of KZbinrs vilifying any animal. So far, humans are the most dangerous animal I see... keep up the great work!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so very much! That absolutely drives me nuts as well, and I agree completely!

[@tannertaylor3271]

I would love to see a sort of check list of things to know I’m ready for an old world. I recently watched a tarantula collective video about good keeper habits and was happy to know that I was already doing all of them, which was a nice confidence boost

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Tanner! I could try to do one, but I really think that a lot of it comes down to the keeper, his/her experience, and how he/she is feeling about them. I'll give it some thought!

[@HopelessMoonGazer]

Thank you Tom for this. Do many great little facts and helpful tips. The point you made about the catch cup blocking changes in air pressure is pure brilliance and I never made that connection! Thank you, thank you!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much for the kind words! I'm so glad that you found this informative. :)

[@Almonte-e8q]

Thanks a lot for these awsome tips for rehousing tarantulas! I love this video!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm so glad that this was helpful! Thank you !

[@zajaxaty]

Love the t-shirt. Have you heard a rumor of them making a sequel to killer klowns?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks! Okay, if I remember correctly, they were FINALLY going to start work on the sequel, and Warner Brothers changed hands and everything went quiet. :(

[@michaelmead8285]

Super keen for this Tom! Will be tuning in!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Michael!

[@deewhitcha6014]

a lot of great info and tips! Thanks very much Tom!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Dee!

[@chaparossm]

Wonderful video Tom! Very informative, ive had new keepers ask me what old worlds they should start with. I will now refer them to this video. Love that Killer Klowns shirt by the way, i have the same one.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much! And I love that shirt! haha

[@angela_tarantulas]

I have over 20 years of experience with new worlds. 3 weeks ago, I got my first new world - H. maculata 😍 it’s a sling and fast as heck. But rehousing went well… now I let it grow and hope for the best 😂

[@angela_tarantulas]

PS: my Goliaths are also fast as heck and I wouldn’t wanna be bitten by their massive fangs 😰

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm glad that it went well overall, Angela! As for Goliaths, I've had people ask me how bad their venom is. My first though is, "Have you seen the SIZE of the fangs? Who cares about venom!" haha

[@angela_tarantulas]

@@TomsBigSpiders thank you! I did the rehousing in a plastic container, like you show it in the video. I think if a small sling escapes, you’ll never find it again 😱 and I was stunned about the lightning speed. Oh yes, I imagine a fang that size could destroy finger joints if it hits the wrong spot. And they can bring dirt and bacteria into the bite wound, like every bite it’s not great. But remember: the worst bite for a human, is a human bite 😂 and as a longtime hobbyist: I was never bitten by a spider, nor stung by a scorpion. I just try to stay calm, be aware of the animals and use tongs for works at enclosures. Btw, great video!!! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@mikepetersen7319]

Great rehabilitation of old world T's. All in all every beginner and Pro should heed your good advices, no matter wich species. I'm keeping T's for 25 years now and were never been bitten or in the risk of it because I handle them the same as you.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Mike! Yeah, people don't believe me when I tell them that. haha

[@pikeaddict1]

Thank you for this great video. As someone who is fairly new to the hobby, I really appreciate this kind of honest information.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm SO glad that you found this helpful! :)

[@IrishColin]

Great video! It’s a perfect balance between healthy respect for tarantulas without fear mongering them (not that I’d think you would ever do that). It was a great video for many people out there between people like myself who has been interested in and learning about tarantulas for a while but a just getting their first ones and all the way to people that have been keeping them for a while but maybe putting off getting an old world because of all the negative hype there has been. I’ve been binge watching your videos learning as much as I can (hence the comments on multiple videos in a short time frame) so I can keep learning more about how to care properly for my Ts when they come Tuesday. I’ve definitely learned enough that I feel confident that I’m ready for them but there’s never a point in which learning more is a bad thing.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Irish! That's exactly what I was going for. This, in my opinion, is a grounded and realistic opinion about them. And I'm so glad that you've been finding my videos useful; that's exactly why I do this. Good luck with your spiders! - Tom

[@James-bristol]

Great video as always on point and honest can’t ask for no more.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, James!

[@Numa92]

I'm doing research before buying my first tarantula and this was very informational. Thank you. I just subscribed!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm so glad that it was helpful. And thank you so much!

[@dopeboysdontsleep5549]

hey Tom, youre the best forreals! i learned a lot from you. Thank you!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Dope Boy!

[@TarantulaHaven]

Great video as always Tom. Very thorough. 😎👍

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Alex! Thank so much, bud...that truly means a lot. Are you back to school yet? Am I a terrible person for dreading it? haha

[@TarantulaHaven]

@@TomsBigSpiders yeah I’m back to school. I was dreading it as well but it’s just like ripping off a bandaid. Now we’re back in the swing of things. 🤓

[@TomsBigSpiders]

@@TarantulaHaven Hahaha! I was just telling my wife that after the first day, it's like, "Well...we're HERE again." haha I hope that you have a great year!

[@chrisobt]

Wow! Great video and I love the intro! You touched on a lot of important things. Very well explained. I think, this topic is so important and you've done a great job. I particularly liked the old world "beginner" tarantula's, you namend in the video. Most african tarantulas are a good choice to start with old worlds. Harpactira sp., Heterothele sp., Monocentropus sp., Ceratogyrus sp., they are wonderful spiders for diving into the old world stuff. And they are hardy too! Asian tarantulas are more difficult in point of care. To keep them perfect, you need a lot of experience as keeper. I'm a spider keeper since the 90's, with currently over 200 adult / sub adult spiders, but even now I'm learning new stuff about spiders. It's so important to keep learning new things and watch out for Informations. And I m glad and greatful for people like you in the hobby! Your videos are education and information for many people in the hobby. No bullshit, no clickbaiting, no misinformation! Thx Tom!! Great work and a great yt channal! Stay Safe and have a wonderful week! Greetings Chris 🤘

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Chris! Thank you so much. I came up with the idea for this video years ago, so I'm glad that I finally got it done. And I'm so glad that you agreed with my list! Yeah, I'm always learning new things about them and gaining new perspectives, which I love. I recently did a podcast where I discussed some things I've changed over the years. I think, although it's not a difficult hobby, one always has to be open minded and prepared to revisit things on occasion. And thank you so much for the kind words! It truly means a lot, especially coming from a seasoned keeper!!!

[@carydavenport1869]

Another great and informative video. 👍🏻

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Cary!

[@stephaniebruner8534]

Loved this video thank you you think you could do a video like this on True Spiders especially brown recluse back widow wolf and funnel webs please

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Stephanie! And that's the plan for this summer. I wanted to wait until I had some more experience with some of them.

[@Nobody3YK]

Tom! The definitions and explanations were absolutely perfect. Easy to understand and what a great group of suggestions leading up to more intermediate options. Thank you for this content.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Joel! I'm hoping that this video might be a good springboard for some folks!

[@VetiExotics]

Great vid Tom, social media has certainly become an issue. I think the best thing for people is to just experience it for themselves. Peoples perspectives can be so different and it ends up swaying people in the wrong direction. I notice this alot with reptiles too. Fellow CT reptile and tarantula keeper

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Where in CT? And I agree completely!

[@VetiExotics]

@@TomsBigSpiders Marlborough/Glastonbury area

[@zulemazahir666]

Click bait garbage is too nice candidly. Nonetheless that intro had me giggling. Great advice, thanks Tom and Billie for a great video as per usual!🖤🕷

[@TomsBigSpiders]

In my first take, I actually said "shit." haha Gotta keep things family friendly, though! haha thanks so much, Zulema!!!

[@UpSpider]

Amazing video as always

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Frances!

[@gavincaldwell7420]

Nowadays I really only watch your channel and Daves channel. You two are arguably some of the best keepers out there. Your videos are what got me into keeping Ts, and maybe one day I'll get an old world. Not ready yet, but I feel less intimidated than before

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Gavin! Yes, Dave seems to be a kindred spirit who does this for the love of the animals. And they'll be there when you're ready!

[@gavincaldwell7420]

@TomsBigSpiders when I decide to expand my T collection I'll be referring to your videos for insights on whatever species I may want to get. Keep up the good work

[@nanoreefer1622]

I pretty much only keep old worlds apart from Psalmopoeus species and a T.blondi. love the old worlds Poecilotheria for the win!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I obviously love Poecilotheria!

[@Lady_Philosophy]

I wish I could heart this video. I agree with everything you said. Not critisizing but I'm a pokie lover and would have liked to see more of them. To me they're big babies with potent venom. I actually find them easier to rehouse and deal with than Psalmopeous. I have a P subfusca lowland who just molted and is now about 4 inches max. So far it has been scared of killing live crickets and mommy has to prekill them or s/he will hide from them. Hoping with this molt there will come some confidence. But out of my whole collection, that one is definitely my problem child, and it's not because of it's speed or defensiveness. Another baboon that I've had experience with and (in my experience) is very laid back even as a sling is the H gigas. Yeah it's another big brown tarantula, but that species has a special place in my heart. I had a massive female and she never gave me any problems rehousing, and I was still pretty new back then. This year I got another sling and it's also just a lovely little thing and so far has been super calm with rehousing. It's definitely a species I recommend to people who want to get into old worlds. Anyways I am also an advocate of all spiders and I try to educate my friends about them because I believe the more you understand something, the less scary it is and the more compassion you will have. And I believe that saves spiders' lives who may have accidentally found themselves inside someone's house. Okay, so sorry for the novel. Thank you so much for finishing and posting this video. Happy Keeping!! 🕷❤

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Tarantula Girl! As for the pokies, I got the P. rufilata in there because that has one of the worst reps for pokies. I probably could have put some footage of my P. subfusca rehouses in there as well. Both of my P. subfusca were a bit shy with eating, and I was feeding them much smaller prey than I normally would pokies of their size. I'm glad to hear that I'm not the only one who experienced that. Thanks so much for chiming in!!!

[@Lady_Philosophy]

@@TomsBigSpiders That's very interesting that you have the same experience with your subfuscas. I wonder if that's a trait of the species. So cool what we can learn about them by sharing experiences. Your rufilata is gorgeous. Mine isn't that bad either. She's just very shy. I get threat poses from my ornata but she just wants to be left alone. I had to remove a cricket from her enclosure the other day. First I got a threat pose, and when I kept digging for the cricket she went to the bottom of her cork round and covered her eyes. So yeah, big babies with potent venom. 🕷❤

[@jurgenludwig8292]

Excited to watch the new video Tom, thanks for all the hard work you put into these.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Jurgen!

[@robinengbers6089]

This was a fabulous video, thank you so much for all this amazing information ! I have 3 New Worlds and hope to get an Old Worlds after I gain more confidence and experience :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Robin! There's no rush at all; they'll be there when you are ready!

[@sandramullen7804]

Bit the bullit and ordered my very first old world sling. 😮 H. Maculata (Togo starburst.) i think they are the most gorgeous spider, love their colouring. Wish me luck Tom 😊I agree with all you have said here. I'd say bites are always the case of stupidity and carelessness. We need to respect the spider at ALL TIMES ❤

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats, Sandra! That's my wife's favorite species. :) They are stunning. And I agree completely!

[@sandramullen7804]

@@TomsBigSpiders thanks Tom , they are stunning 😍

[@dolled.in.beauty]

Recently purchased a Brazilian black as my first tarantula. I have jumping spiders who I love dearly , so I'm super excited to get into the Tarantula hobby and hope to some day own beautiful old worlds too!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome! What a great species to start with!

[@Spyder0000]

Dude, that was one of the most informative and well spoken videos I've seen. Thanks 😊👍

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Roy! It took me a while to put this one together, so I'm really glad that people are appreciating it! :)

[@rachelaleece]

My mature male Idiothele mira passed about a month ago. He was the first T I successfully raised from sling to maturity. Bitter sweet, and couldn’t have done it without your content Tom.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Awwwwww...I'm so sorry to hear that, Rachelaleece. Thank you!

[@Dojnia]

Appreciate this video Tom. I'm thay guy. I started with OW Pokies I have 3 adults and a juvie. I have 1 NW versi. They are all amazing. In my opinion OW/NW is your confidence level. Again thanks for all you do.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Jason! It definitely depends on individual confidence level! Thanks!

[@BlackScubaBear]

Thank you for this amazing video. I wish I would've saw this video before I bought my first 3 T last week. OBT ,PRegalis & GGB I will continue to watch these amazing video that will better educate me from here, one thing for sure is that I have the up most world of respect for these amazing T's. So I am investing time to learn about them now. Bear Blessings and I am pushing the subscribe all button NOW.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much for the kind words and for subscribing! How is it going with your OBT and regalis? I have rehousing videos on both species when the time comes. Good luck! :)

[@BlackScubaBear]

@TomsBigSpiders They are doing great. It's so therapeutic, just to sit and watch them move around the enclosure. Thank you . I will check them out. I was wondering as far as enclosure do you recommend acrylic or glass?

[@Moore-Tarantulas]

Great video!! I appreciate how you took care to remove some of the stigma that comes with getting old worlds but also putting out the perspective as to why it's cracked down on so harshly! While I completely understand why a lot of the community reacts the way it does, we all love the community and want to see it's thrive, I feel confused on the demonization of old worlds or newbies keeping them! So quick to jump people and even bully them for even thinking about old worlds "too soon" is weird to me. They talk about how quick and venomous they are and how "unfriendly" they can be in the wrong hands, but I hear NO ONE talk about how that can be the case for some new worlds too. Hear me out for a second! Rarely do I see people in the community ward of any newbies to tarantulas who have any form of urticating hairs, whether their prolific kickers or not! Species like the GBB are a favorite for newbies and sold as such, despite how they have a reputation for being massive kickers, whether as a phase or a life long occupation. The whole Bracypelma genus is often offered up as a newbie T, no one warning that, despite all looking kind of similar, some kick way more then others and how BAD their hairs can be! T's like the Lasiodora Parahyban are often considered a favorite staple and rarely do you see people talk about how they make it to the tops of the lists for worst urticating hairs along side other birdeater favorites like the Theraphosa Stirmi / Blondi! When you go to buy Ts online you'll see them specify old worlds and whether their potent or fast. But no where have I seen them mention "nasty urticating hairs!" for New worlds. Or even mention if they don't have any hairs like for the new world Psalmopeous Imirnia! And you're probably thinking, "Well, some of those new world species aren't known to kick that often so is rarely a danger" I will argue, rarely does a T have a need to bite either and I feel the hairs are far easier to achieve contact with you then a T's fangs. I think the point I am trying to make is, I don't understand the gate keeping or down right bullying that occurs with newbies that want to keep old worlds when, lets face it, some species of new worlds urticating hairs can be just as "unfriendly". Call me crazy, but I will take a speedy old world over a new world ANY DAY. Those hairs scare me WAY more. Instead of taring down new people in our community for their choices, we should all help educate them so they can be as prepared as possible before making their leap, REGARDLESS of whether it's a new world or old world! Thanks for being a big part in educating everyone. ❤ (Please keep in mind, these are just my personal feelings and opinions and in NO WAY do I feel everyone must abide by my choices or feelings on the subject nor am I here to start a fight, though I am absolutely open to hearing anyone else's thoughts or feelings! Everyone has their reasons for why they keep the species they do and all of those reasons are valid!)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm hearing you out, and I agree! haha I've actually warned people of species that are more likely to kick before (like my GBBs, who BOTH went through kicking stage for several years). I've also advised people that getting haired is MUCH more likely than getting bitten, and some folks eventually move into old worlds because they can't take NW hairs anymore. And I couldn't agree more that we need to do more to educate rather than chastise or berate folks who are new to the hobby. Thanks for chiming in!

[@Moore-Tarantulas]

@@TomsBigSpiders You're amazing! I was a little slow to the update but I went to spotify today to catch up and saw you did a podcast on urticating hairs! Super ecstatic you did that and it was great and full of amazing information for people who don't get the hub bub on hairs AND for people to get advise to safely keep them and minimize their exposure! Awesome! Also I can confirm the BB thing, the ONE time I got uriticating hairs on my person was from my Bracypelma Bohmei! My girl Freddy is QUICK to kick and is so MEAN with them hairs! lol And we are the types that use the eye goggles, masks, gloves, long sleeves, pants, shoes. Full body coverage. It was when I first got her and she come in an enclosure that was actually a good size for her but it had no hide or anything of "comfort" so I took her out with a card board catch cup method with no issue but I was working on a coffee table I was sitting at and I am short and couldn't see what I was doing exactly so I set the enclosure in my lap for a moment to see better to fix the cork bark into the soil, being careful not to stir too much of those hairs up, but not long after I had a major blistering rash on my leg where I had set the enclosure down!! Lesson learned there. lol Thanks for hearing me out and responding!

[@TheSpiderLibrary]

Since watching this I just now realize how these click bait KZbinrs are portraying t’s is really bad for the hobby as a whole, that’s sad because tarantulas are really awesome animals, thank you for the voice of truth.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I was hoping to draw some attention to that issue. It drives me nuts, because I don't understand how if you love an animal, you would want to portray it that way for views.

[@JEEXOTICS]

Love your channel Tom! Long time viewers, we just posted some pairings in our shorts!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much! I'll check them out. :)

[@wraith1320]

LOVE this video, THANK YOU! Very thorough, reasonable explanation of the difficulties and differences in keeping Old World vs. New World Ts. No sensationalism or blanket opinions based on one keeper’s bad experience. I will start with a recommended, “beginner”, New World species, but I’m glad to know that Old Worlds are something I can reasonably consider at some later point, when I have much more experience. I also appreciated the comparison to the dangers of mainstream sports or hobbies like horseback riding. I love horses, and have ridden off and on over the years, but having a healthy respect for the animals and exercising common sense is key! That said, I would feel FAR safer working with tarantulas. Statistically (and just from the standpoint of basic sense), the horse has far greater potential to cause serious harm-even without meaning to. Accidents can happen, on the part of both parties. Yet I can’t recall ever seeing horses demonized by the media or general public, as animals like tarantulas and large snakes often are. :(

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Wraith! This one was a very long time coming, but I'm so glad that I finally got it done. I really tried to stick straight to facts while mixing in my own observations. And I'm so glad that you appreciated that, as I was worried that folks who partake in those activities would think that I was calling them "dangerous." haha I was just trying to show that, in the grand scheme of things, the danger involved in keeping OW tarantulas pales in comparison to some other popular (and not shunned) activities. Thanks so much!

[@HerpCollectorsNetwork]

Great video and a really balanced approach to this topic. I will be revisiting this and sharing this often. Thanks!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much!

[@9th_Kindred]

I am getting old world as my first Ts. Philippine tangerine was my go to as it's our local tarantula and my favourite one at that due to it's vibrant color ❤

[@TomsBigSpiders]

One of my all time favorite tarantula species! Congrats!

[@stevedoud7112]

Very well done Tom

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Steve!

[@XxMrRoachxX]

Great video as always Tom!!! Thank you! My entry drug were Pokies and I never looked back :) Love them all and never had any issues. I do work carefully with thongs only of course. Still never had one even charge the thongs yet. I always make sure to feed them first and then water and clean so that they're busy or make sure they go in their hides before doing anything. Edit: I owned Pokies for over 20 years now.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

My first large OW was a P. vittata, so I totally get it. And I'm SO glad someone else uses the "feed first" technique. I've had so much success with that!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Oh! And thank you!

[@XxMrRoachxX]

@@TomsBigSpiders Most welcome Sir!

[@Dreakx1]

Great video, long time lurker.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much!!!

[@The_Little_Red_Fox]

Thank you. This is very helpful. As an Australian I’ve been advised to START with an old world tarantula (as a more docile and easy to keep spider for a beginner).

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you! And I think that you can only keep local species over there, right? :)

[@The_Little_Red_Fox]

@@TomsBigSpiderscorrect

[@wilson-gj5os]

I love your videos, they are so informative to new people in the hobby and others that been in the hobby for years. Your back round as a teacher shows. I have 23 T's and much of what i know came from you and other reliable sources. Love the short videos you have, but these long detailed videos are awesome. Keep it going! :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much! I have more time in the summer to put together the longer ones, which is why you'll see more of them in the next several weeks! :)

[@als_ark]

I was scared of old worlds at first 😅 however after keeping them (obts, pokies cyriopagopus etc) i can say i have had more defensive behaviour from my nhandu chromatus. I treat all of mine the same, all with respect and love. Thanks for sharing the love for all spiders tom! Such an awesome video!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Same here! I honestly don't have any issues with my Old World species. Respect is the key! Thank you so much!

[@thomasbazin1529]

Hey Tom! Thanks for another very informative video. As other viewers mentioned, your videos and Dave little beasties' really are some of the best source for information about Ts. Keep it up! 🤘

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Thomas! And he's definitely a kindred spirit!