Grammostola Pulchra (Brazilian Black) Husbandry and Rehousing

[@3ggeckos519]

Watching this 6 years after you did it and waiting for my first G. Pulchra yearling from Fear Not...my last tarantula was back in '87, likely a wild caught, from the local reptile store. So here I am, in my 50s, getting back into Ts...lol...went with the Black Lab to ease back into it, though as I watched this I was lmao at your "Black Lab" - liked, subscribed. Great job! THX.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Welcome back to the hobby; that's awesome! Here is a more current video I did with my juvenile. Thank you for subscribing! kzbin.info/www/bejne/eXK4oGeflM6Bracsi=HZQW0j81k1INTRqC

[@laurentaylor3661]

5 years since u posted this amnd i much appreciate this informative vid thank you!! x

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm so glad that it was useful, Lauren!

[@tarantulagirl]

I have a 1 - 1.5” pulchra, she eats two whole crickets a week. Already she has a fully black furry abdomen, but her legs are light brown fluff. She cost £25 which is roughly $20, that was for a 1cm sling but when she arrived she was an inch easily. They are quite common in the England at present. I’ve only had her a month or so but she’s grown a lot, already. Love this specie. Great video Tom xx

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Wow, I wish they were that inexpensive over here! Unfortunately, we have to import them, so that jacks the price way up. Thanks so much! :)

[@Lilithscissorhands]

I recently just got a grammostola pulchra as my first tarantula and I immediately fell in love with her/him! It’s currently a sling and this video was very helpful for future rehousing : )

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Awwww...that's awesome, Lilith!

[@koreyw1650]

Watching 6 years after the original post. I have a sling in the mail. Thanks for the information Tom.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

All the info still holds up, Korey! Thanks!

[@subrosa7mm]

I’ve been scared of spiders since the movie came out. I’ve slowly gotten over this fear and love these Brazilian Blacks and Arizona Blonds. I don’t think I’d have the guys to keep one. But I now have a love and appreciation for these sweet T’s.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome! I think that a lot of us start of as scared of them. I know that I did. :)

[@subrosa7mm]

Tom Moran I also think I’d have a problem where I’d want to “pet” it and have to keep reminding myself don’t touch. Lol. Another reason why I’m afraid. I don’t want to be bitten. I’ve been bitten by lizards and hamsters. I’m not to keen on that.

[@jaredmouro4952]

Bought mine at 1.5 inches. At the time it was brown. It molted about 4 months later and turned completely black. It also grew almost an inch larger!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Wow, that's great growth, Jared! Mine just molted again after two years. haha

[@jasonoreilly2795]

bought my sling 1 year ago. moulted in month 11 AND then again in month 12. Nice vid btw

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Man, that's some great growth!

[@xoxo4899]

so excited to order from fear not spiders. doing all my homework beforehand to be a good rancho dad

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome...good luck!

[@aliciatafoya2987]

I just picked up a G. Pulchra sling today! Took me forever to find one. The shop said they just got them in. I'm so excited.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats, Alicia! Yeah, they've been out of the hobby for a couple years. The ones we're seeing now are being imported. :)

[@the8thpagetarantulas87]

They sure are exploding with popularity. I can't wait until my two are this size. The temperament is so wonderful with this species. Great info!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much! Yeah, I think folks are trying to snatch them up while they can. :)

[@didisaythat4230]

My G. Pulchra just molted today for the first time since having it. I could tell it was about to go down because where this spider walks around the enclosure almost constantly, for the last two days I didn't see it out of its hide. Checked on it this morning and had a half molted spider. Hoping for the best and I'll check back on it this afternoon when I get home.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats on the molt! I'm so glad that it apparently went well!

[@didisaythat4230]

Molted again. It's about 1.5" now and it's butt is jet black and covered in black hair. The rest of it still very much looks like a sling and almost even see through. I always come back to you videos when I have a update on one of my spiders, even if I've watched the video multiple times. The rewatch value on these videos are priceless.

[@fedeph665]

Here in Argentina this species is super cheap, i just bought one G.Pulchra sling for 7 dollars!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Man, what a great price!

[@arupian666]

Subbed, for the spider content, and the CoF shirt ! That's one chill spider ! Considering the poking and prodding he/she was remarkably mellow about it all. No hairing, no defensive posturing...

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahaha Thank so much! Yeah, he was very laid back. :) Thanks again!

[@ashleymiller1625]

Just ordered one for 130$ with a habitat from Fear Not :) It’ll be here tomorrow! Super excited!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats...that's awesome! My little one (from Fear Not) is ready to molt soon. :)

[@widowkeeper4739]

Getting one of these for my hubby's birthday in a month. It'll be his first T, and I can't think of a more perfect one for him. Really excited to be bringing one of these guys into our collection.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome...what a great gift! Congrats to both of you. :)

[@brutusjojola4611]

Thank you Tom getting my little Pulchra next week from Tanya can't wait and thank you for the download on sling care that comes with purchase. Your the best Tom much respect.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Brutus! And congrats! :)

[@nicolehinkley3922]

Just ordered my new Brazilian black from fear not tarantulas and I've been wanting to do this for years now so excited!!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats, Nicole! That's awesome! :)

[@RavenAsh666]

I’m getting a sling soon! Fear Not Tarantulas had slings that just molted, and I can’t wait to have this one in my collection

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome, Ashley...congrats!

[@williamwieliczko5505]

just got my second ever t and its a g pulchra 1.2cm!!!! beautiful beautiful t this video convinced me pulchra was the t for me so thank you!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats, William...that's awesome! :)

[@Star2003rocks]

Thanks for all your great videos! Very informative. I'm getting my first T this week, a G. Pulchra, of course!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much...and congrats! How is it doing? :)

[@Star2003rocks]

@@TomsBigSpiders great! As soon as i rehoused "he"barricaded himself for 3 weeks and has molted!! Just waiting for him to come out when he's ready to eat :)

[@Monoxiderson]

Picked up a G. Pulchra sling at NARBC TInley from Palp Friction - they have around 25 or so slings left available for around $75 for people interested! The dark and velvety black caught my eye and is actually the species that got me interested in the hobby so I just had to grab one for myself! Thank you for the video Tom and keep up the great work!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much for the heads up, Jess! That's awesome!

[@brianamoore9825]

What timing!! I just ordered my G. pulchra from Fear Not Tarantulas the other day! I've been planning an order from them for a while, I'm glad I did it when I did. I've wanted one ever since I first researched tarantulas, and I can't wait for mine to get here.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Briana! Congrats...that's awesome! I knew that Tanya just got some in, so I figured that it would be a good time to do a video on them. :)

[@insect__politics]

I just ordered a G. Pulchra and an LP from Fear Not. They're coming in on Wednesday and I'm stoked (extra stoked for the G. Pulchra though). Thanks for the vids and the podcast. I have learned so much from you!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Nicole! That's awesome...congrats! Did they arrive? :) Thank you so much!

[@gab3963]

Looking back on these videos, it’s almost funny that they were impossible to find! Petco was practically giving mine away (if not a pure Pulchra, something similar) bc they could never sell it. It’s about 3”-4”

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I think that some random pet stores had them in stock...who knows where they got them from as 3-4" captive bred specimens are NOT easy to find.

[@alexjae1901]

I’m getting my baby grammastola pulcra Tuesday !!!! AHHH so excited My first spider ever.I’m so nervous and excited I just wanna do everything right.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats, Alex...that's awesome! I'm sure that you'll do fine!

[@alexjae1901]

@@TomsBigSpiders thank you Tom! I have couple other pets that I just love to spoil so I’m so excited to do just that with the new baby! Can’t wait to meet them! Tomorrow 9 o’clock So excited Tom. So excited. I’ve thought about getting a tarantula for a long time. Took me a long time of research and videos to start to have the balls to even just go for it. And I’m so excited ! Sorry tmi Tom. But it’s nice to rant to a fella that enjoys the tarantulas as well!! Okay have a great day! I’m gonna name them Wednesday I hope she’s a lady. But my mother says Wednesday is a good name for a boy too. If they turn out to be a boy gandolf the great wizard sounds good for a boy… Okay tmi But man I’m so excited :) Praying for a lady. I wanna have them for as long as possible but If it’s a baby boy I’m supposed to have the baby boy. And that’s just fine with me. Just wish the baby boys lived as long as the ladies. Because I feel like I’m just gonna fall in love immediately and I just am selfish. And wish there was all the time in the world for the animals we have. But I know that’s not life. I wish it was. So excited! Have a great day thank you for the videos so much!

[@martinapieper2829]

I found 10 grammostola pulchra slings at a reptile expo here in the US, it was a good thing to see. Of course I had to get one-paid $65. Good video!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Sorry for the delay, Martina! That's awesome...congrats! :)

[@sidewaysonhighways]

That’s what I paid at an expo for mine as well. While that is not cheap, a vendor I love and do business with, was selling her G. pulchras for $350. I have two of them now. The other was a freebie from Fear Not. One is more brown and the other is black. They are about the same size @ 1.5”. So I guess the black one is the quiroguai and the brown one is a pulchra. Maybe. I have held a grown female which belonged to a vendor, at his place, and it was just like my B. smithi/annitha. Very docile, but they aren’t all like that.

[@rebeccawiggins2799]

I just paid $50 for my sling!

[@paulm1503]

Saw you in other comments saying "nice growth", hear mine : 6 molts in 7 months(i didnt record previous ones), and went from less than an inch to 5 & 1/2 inches in 1 year, confirmed female Guess this is the fastest ever recorded

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Paul! Yup, that's definitely the fastest growth I have ever heard for just about any tarantula. haha

[@miawolf42]

So funny, I enjoyed watching her. My little one is so friendly. I bought her March 2016 and she's smaller than yours.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Mia! This one molted out and is now a mature male.

[@colinwinkelmann299]

Just ordered one for myself today, saw them on the order list and our distributor said they were amazing and healthy at 1.5", cant wait to see it tomorrow. If I end up with a male, of course itll take a few years to find out, I will absolutely sending him off to someone who wants to breed. If I end up with a female I will be overjoyed to be bringing this long lived species into my collection

[@colinwinkelmann299]

I just recieved my new little buddy, 1.75 inches had molted during shipping and is already showing that awesome black

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congratulations! This has become one of the most popular species in the hobby. Even if you get a male, you'll have him for a good long time. :)

[@brittanstarr9454]

I got a G. Pulchra sling at a local reptile show for $70 I figured it was a good deal. It's my husband's favorite species so I picked it up for his birthday. He is doing awesome and is super feisty I love it.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Brittan! That's a really good price for one...congrats! You'll have fun watching this one grow up. What a great birthday present! :)

[@meaganmahoney4646]

Love your channel Tom! I'm just getting into the hobby and picked up my first T (grammostola pulchra) from Tonya about a week ago. Your videos and information are very helpful! Rock on

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Meagan! You started with a great species there. :) I have one of Tanya's slings as well. :)

[@Debg14]

Same

[@MsTreefox]

I have 2, both are extremely chill. One ate quite a bit before going into premolt, the other is already in premolt so hasnt eaten yet.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

These guys tend to get super chubby before molting!

[@jethrogibbs4192]

I had my 'blade' from only 1 cm was so cute when I got her now here we are 9 years later and she is opening her own door which I was happy to record ;) . Thanks for all these great vids!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome, Scott. And thanks so much!

[@morganfiedler119]

I'm going back and watching your old videos to keep myself busy and I gotta say...every time you say something is "caca" i crack up, and that goofy little smirk at the end got me. I think my inner child is showing. Lol Hope you and Billy and the kiddos are well.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Morgan! So sorry for the delay! I somehow missed a whole bunch of comments! Hahahaha. I forgot about this video! We are all doing great. I'm FINALLY on summer break and playing catch up with some stuff. I hope that you and yours are well!

[@MauriceTarantulas]

3 years and mine is barely 2 inches! Due a moult any day soon. Really beautifull and cool T's. One of the best to own in my opinion. Great vid!

[@shadowbaa2]

I just ordered a 1 1/2 inch Brazilian black from fear not tarantulas today super excited can't wait. This is my second tarantula I got my first one 3 weeks ago it's a pink toe named cuddles. I think I'm going to name this one snuggles.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats, Lis! That's awesome. Love the names, too! :)

[@shadowbaa2]

@@TomsBigSpiders I am going to try to stick with what I have for a few months. But when I move I am going all out

[@debbzz13]

They were so common in the UK hobby in the 90s. As you say, they all but disappeared. Now making a comeback and hobbyists in the UK will be trying to breed them. Hopefully they'll be numerous again in the next few years. Lovely specimen there Tom. Be great to see a feeding video too, in the near future.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Debbie! I hope some folks start breeding them soon. Apparently, they are tough to get a sac from. I've even heard folks say that they think that there might even be two different species being sold as G. pulchra, which is why they are so difficult to breed. Thanks so much!

[@debbzz13]

Tom Moran yes there is suspicion that some pulchras in the hobby are actually quirogai. This means hybridisation, as you know, if hobbyists are not careful, but this may have already happened. It's a concern.

[@trapperweasel5781]

This is the species I want to get as my beginner. It's so beautiful.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

They really are so gorgeous. :)

[@denofsouls9564]

I got one of these as my first tarantula in December 2020. She’s just 6cm long and her name is Aragaog, not sure on the gender but I call her a she

[@pugsley8963]

Tom , after watching a lot of your videos I am now going to get me and my grandchildren this spider he/she is beautiful. I am going to talk to fear not tarantulas tomorrow. Wish me luck. Thank you for all the great videos. Susan

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Susan...that's awesome! Best of luck! Please let me know if you have any questions when you get it. Thanks!

[@Digita1Noob]

I'm getting a Brazilian Black tomorrow and a Golden Blueleg Baboon. Super excited. Thank you for the info.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats! Two awesome species!

[@golfpro908]

Hey Tom! Thanks for the video, I can't watch enough of them. I'm thinking about getting into the hobby and am going to start out with G. Pulchra for my first T, but am waiting to purchase a sling at a Reptile show near me. The anticipation is maddening! Thanks again ^_^.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Oh, man....the waiting game! When is the show? :) And thank you!

[@timothythorne9182]

Tom! I've been watching your videos for a short while now. I'm new to the hobby (about two years of experience). Your videos have helped me so much with care and choosing species. Also where to pick up quality T's. I was shopping at Netbug at the Hamburg Reptile Show for some time, and thanks to you I've recently made a purchase with Jamie's Tarantulas, and I have an order in at Fear Not Tarantulas. I'm very thankful that there is somebody making videos to help with sling care, molting, and species husbandry. Most of the videos out there are entertaining, but not very instructional. So thanks again. Sorry for the rant... Hahaha

[@megjakehavi5848]

Timothy, I've been dealing with Netbug because of proximity to me. Anastasia have been great with communications. I've bought 3 T's from her so far and meet up with her whenever I need anything if I can't make the Reptile Show in White Plains. She offered to watch my 4 babies while away on a family trip. Her knowledge along with Tom's is great when it comes to any questions on how to and on so many species. Been watching Tom's Big Spiders thinking over a year now before making the plunge to multiple T's. So glad we have this community that helps out for us newbies! If ever in doubt, I refer back to Tom's videos and blogs. So very helpful. Anastasia said all four of my vast collection (LOL, not yet!) looked well cared for and in good health. Big thanks to Tom for helping reassure us newer to the husbandry when we question ourselves.

[@johnbrazell2433]

Timothy Thorne its so nice that Tom lets us pick his brain. There is a lot of good stuff in there.

[@NeniMaru]

Perfect timing for this video! I just bought my first sling from Tanya. I started with pythons and kingsnake but now I want to add this beauty.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Leslie! Yeah, I know that a lot of folks are picking them up, so I figured that I should revisit this species. :) And that's awesome! I used to be big into snakes in the 90s! :)

[@NeniMaru]

Tom Moran I emailed Bruce from Arachnophiliacs and I'm in the waiting list for buyers who want a female pulchra. Just noticed how you were looking forward to be a female xD

[@TaleRavenTarot]

I really appreciate your great and informative videos. I'm new to the hobby. This and a GBB are my first two slings, and thanks to your videos, I feel a lot more prepared!

[@ProbableHobbit]

It's always great to see a new video notification from you. I enjoy this species, as well. I find mine to be quite bold but rarely, if ever , defensive. Great rehouse footage. Have a great weekend! 😊

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Jodi! :) Yeah, mine has been very bold as well. And he's an eating machine! I'll be curious to see if he has spurs after his next molt...

[@MeganWallace]

I do so love your videos, Tom. Was at a pet show today and bought another G. pulchra sling. Here in South Africa they are rare too, and quite pricey. My first G. pulchra sling behaves much like yours. Voracious eater and it loves to burrow. Also seems to burrow when nervous. If it gets disturbed, it goes into a corner and starts throwing soil around. Mine is growing very fast, I would guess it grew about 2cm over the summer to make it a total of 4cm now, and it moulted three times.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats! I just got another sling as well! haha They are so rare! I didn't realize that they are rare there, too. :) Yours is growing super fast...wow!!! Some people believe that there are actually two species being sold as G. pulchra, as one tends to grow very quickly while the other grows super slow.

[@torpedoesntarantulas5758]

Nice job man! These are beautiful tarantulas & it would be cool to see more of them in the hobby here in the States.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Jeff! Yup, I 'm hoping someone has some luck breeding them!

[@shoshannahhenderson7125]

They are so lovely. I cannot wait till I get my sling. I'm relatively new to the hobby and have my list of 4 babies that I will eventually have. Your videos are so informative and entertaining. Please keep them up.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Shoshannah! I'm so glad that they are helpful. Good luck with choosing!

[@tonicoffin7706]

I just recently discovered your videos and they are terrific. There's so much information contained along with action and excellent care. I subscribed right away!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Toni! :) I really appreciate it.

[@nflpro96]

Great stuff Tom! Definitely an excellent beginner species. From what I have seen with my pulchra sling, it appreciates some moisture. They are quite hardy regardless, but I do think some people might be keeping them drier then they should.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Roarke! As a sling, I kept mine partially moist at all times. I noticed that he would avoid the moist side of the substrate. That said, a buddy of mine has one that seems to appreciate some moist sub. I definitely think the prudent thing to do is to give them a moist corner just in case.

[@kaciefraker8399]

I just bought one. I can't wait!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats, Kacie! :)

[@HRH-THO-II]

Just ordered one from Tonya yesterday. It will be here tomorrow. I cant wait

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome...congrats!!!

[@michaelmartinson2781]

Thanks for the video and reminder, pretty sure I just bought the last one from Fear Not :D. Looking forward to getting her in a couple weeks!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome Micheal. Congrats!

[@michaelmartinson2781]

Oops. nope, they have more. So go buy them people!

[@gerybrown7007]

Tom, slowly working my way through all your videos on the T's I am starting back into the hobby with. This video like all the others so far is awesome and appreciated. Acquired a 3/4 inch sling from Tropical Hut, Portland Oregon, October 2019, cost was as you said a little higher than some of my others at $95. Pretty mellow little guy/gal until you give it food, then its a massive WWE style take down. Getting bigger with each molt, but seems to be the slowest at frequency so far. Its about 1.5" now so going slower than the GBB's. Cheers!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Gery! Thank you so much! Congrats on grabbing one of these! They can be difficult to acquire at times. Yeah, they are quite the eaters, especially for more laid back spiders. Mine is growing rather slowly as well. Thanks again!

[@sandynix5268]

Thank you for a great „lesson“.😉☺️ This tarantula is so beautiful! I‘m looking forward to see him/her in complete black one day. Awesome!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Sandy! :)

[@shadowbaa2]

I also just ordered a Brazilian red and white on Friday I need to stop three T's in 3 weeks

[@devilslair3715]

There’s a ton of slings up for sale on arachnoboards.. I know not t related but kudos on the cradle btw!! Can’t wait to see them next week

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Awesome information...thank you! And thanks! Where are you seeing them?

[@devilslair3715]

Tom Moran wochester I think that’s how it’s spelled

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Crap. Billie and I were going to try to hit that one, but we can't make it. We saw a concert there last year, and it was a pretty cool little club.

[@devilslair3715]

The palladium is an awesome place to see a live show been there several times been a fan since before puberty glad I’m finally going after all this time haha lol..

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Bahahahaha! Yeah, we used to catch shows there for Rock and Shock. Great way to see the bands up close!

[@sevenn7pure]

Hey Tom, awesome vid as always. I am fairly new to the hobby. (Just got a H. Chilensis F ~1" 2 weeks ago lol, and now of coarse I'm hook, line, and sinkered 🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂.) I am going to order a G. Pulchra F. when I get paid this Friday. The awesome gentlemen who sold me the F Flame instructed me to feed and mist once a week (while having water available at all times). I misted her tank on the sides of her 8X8X12 enclosure along with the coconut fiber with some peat moss mixed in while she was in her hide and she didn't seem to nuts about the damp substrate so I'm going to stick with misting just the sides and overflowing the top of the contact case In using for a water dish. Would a B. Black of the same size appreciate the same misting frequency? I've read that I would need to feed the black more frequently which is cool. Appreciate any advice you could give me sir. I know this video is over a year old so if I get no response, I'll totally understand.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Misting is fine if they want to grab a quick drink off of the glass, but it evaporates very quickly...usually in a couple hours. I usually moisten down the substrate in a corner. If she doesn't like the moisture, yes, I would definitely discontinue misting. :) Just to be clear, which specimen are you referring to when you say B. black? :) I just want to make sure I address the husbandry for the right tarantula! And thanks!

[@sevenn7pure]

@@TomsBigSpiders my apologies I always forget to use the genus name. Gramastola Pulchra And thanks so much for the info. I never thought of just misting the substrate in the corner with the water dish. U rock sir!!!!!!!!

[@godlesstarantulaguy868]

Great video again, Tom! This species is really expensive in the US, in Europe you could get a 1 inch sling for about 25 Euro... Looking forward to your Podcast tomorrow!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yup, they cost a mint over here! That's what happens when you have to import everything. :) And thank you! Hopefully, it doesn't disappoint!

[@jaymcmillan3777]

Yes!!! I just got 1 today from Tanya soo HAPPY

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congratulations! I just got another sling from her as well. :)

[@thereptiledude7247]

We should make a special cup that would work like a piston or open syringe. You pull it all the way back then load in the spider. Then you slowly push the plunger and it will go out. This way it can’t go up, you don’t have to fight with odd angles in holes, and it should be easier. Ideas?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I actually tried that years ago. I had one that worked okay, but I almost caught the Ts leg between the plunger and the side of the cup, so I abandoned it after that. haha

[@thereptiledude7247]

Tom Moran that’s what I would worry about as well. It would have to be a perfect seal and be made of something that they cannot grip onto, like a cloth, or that could harm them.

[@deadlyconstruct]

Just picked one of these up for my first ever tarantula from my local pet store! After research I decided this was the species I wanted to test the waters with and decided to check my local store to see if they had one (they normally have a really good selection of inverts) and they did! It was fate :) They are so tiny (probably about 3/4 in), I'm absolutely terrified of killing them, but, thanks to your videos I feel much more confident in taking care of them, so thank you!!! I made a custom enclosure from an acrylic food storage container and he's already dug himself a couple of burrows around the cork bark I have in there and is a VERY voracious eater it seems. Crossing my fingers for a girl ^_^

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congratulations! It sure was fate. :) 3/4" is pretty well started, so I'm sure that you'll do fine. They are a VERY hardy species. :) Glad to hear that she has settled in well for you. I'll keep my fingers crossed that you get a lady. :) Thanks again!

[@boxingboa]

Just a incredible looking. I always love your husbandry videos. Thank you for sharing the knowledge.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, bud! Thanks so much. I really enjoy doing these. :)

[@royruganijr8857]

Got 2 a while ago as very small slings. Paid in the 30s for them. They are about 2" now but I feel small super worms...they are not eating right now. They have but have not for months so not sure if going into molting soon or not but rumps are nice size for their length. Seem to be growing very slowly but like you have them in 70s for temps.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I paid about $35 for this one several years ago. I'm glad that I bought it when I did. I thought mine was growing at a pretty good clip, but several folks have chimed in to say that theirs are very slow growing. I had one guy send me photos of his, and it seemingly went from a 1" sling to a 4" sub adult in just over a year. I was totally blown away and confused. Seems that they grow at all different speeds. Great to hear from you, Roy! Hope you and the fam are well! :)

[@kismitj]

my g pulchra, i got as a 1/2" sling, she(hopefully) is now about an inch and a half and after she hardened up from her molt, she's now a deep blueish grey everywhere except her abdomen which is more bluish black. even though she spends most of her time in her burrow, she's accepted the window i encouraged by placing a half tube of corkbark sideways along the display side edge and hangs out in it like a little 8 legged cat in a sunbeam lol once the lights are out she goes back to being a little fuzzy bulldozer

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Well, that's very nice of her to keep that window open for you! Most will cover them up. haha She sounds adorable!

[@kismitj]

@@TomsBigSpiders she is :) and she just molted so i can't wait to see her stretch her legs with her new clothes soon!

[@Chris_Toop_Tarantulas]

Hey Tom, just saw this is like 4yrs old, just got my very first G pulchra a female as all my Ts are females lol, it’s around 2in in LS atm so my tiniest for a while.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats! This one here turned out to be a male. :)

[@scab3045]

I got me one too Brodie. I got mines for $125 wish shipping and all. My slings abdomen is turning velvet ish.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome! They're expensive, but they are well worth it. :)

[@drdoolittlefishhobbyist6055]

Great video sir and very informative. Although I keep Asian forest scorpions I will be attending my first invert show soon and this is one of two on my beginners list with the other being the Chaco golden knee . G . Pulchripes

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, bud! The Chaco golden knee is one of my all time favorites. I'm currently working on a featured species for them. :)

[@VetiExotics]

Such a beautiful species. Never knew of the shortage in u.s. collections

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I agree! And I didn't realize how bad the shortage was until folks started to email me that they couldn't find them anywhere. :)

[@williamwieliczko5505]

I know you have allot of videos in the works and not allot of time, but id really love to get an update on your pulchra!! cant wait till my little guy is as big as yours. (many many years away lol)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, William! I'm sure I can do something! :)

[@williamwieliczko5505]

@@TomsBigSpiders haha cheers i keep comeing back to these 2 videos to glimpse into my ts future keep up the good work!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahaha. That's awesome.

[@ReptileNexus]

I picked up two from Tanya at Fearnottarantulas. Got the who kit deal. One hangs out under some bark, one is a tunneler. Lol.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats...that's awesome! I love when the same species act totally different. haha

[@josephh957]

Gorgeous T my friend! It definitely didn't want to get transferred 😄

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Joseph! Nope...he did NOT want to move. haha

[@debbiemcclure2874]

She is gorgeous Tom!!! You're right, I believe they need to be bred when they mature and be put back into the hobby. They're amazing spiders to say the least. Great video and very informative as always. Tyfs God bless you

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Debbie! Yeah, we definitely need to get some babies here in the states! :) Thanks again!

[@ashers9225]

They're already sold out lol. Awesome video Tom! Keep it up bud!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Ashley! I just checked, and it looks like they are back up (not sure what happened there!). Thank you! :)

[@ashers9225]

Tom Moran Thanks for the response Tom! I just purchased my first G. pulchra I'm sooooo excited. Love all your content so much. Very envious of your collection! (:

[@justinfenningsdorf3741]

Got gbb and Brazilian black coming from palp faction LLC so does help me out once get some years under me this my first year

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome, Justin...congrats!

[@krism4467]

Thanks for sharing Tom, as always, great video. My G.Pulchra is over 8 yrs now, as adult, she only preferres drier side and 'tells me off' or rather starts turning around when she sense I start misting her tank, even a bit of it 😞💦

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahaha. She sounds like she has quite the personality! Thanks so much. :)

[@avixnivaeno2429]

I love the notes on the spider-- "He's not actually nasty, I didn't mean that" haha.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

There's always someone who jumps all over me for calling them "bratty" or "nasty". I was trying to head it off. hahaha Thanks!

[@avixnivaeno2429]

Tom Moran I totally get that. People try to root out literally anything they get their hands on. By the way, now that I've got your ear, you're definitely a huge inspiration and I've practically devoured nearly all of your T videos and and your blog. You're a really cool guy!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yeah, I had one woman rip me up and down telling me that only humans are nasty and it got...weird. haha Thank you very much! I'm glad people still read the blog. Hahahaha. I moved over to the videos because I found that some people wouldn't take the time to read the articles when I referenced them. lol

[@MaximiliansMom]

I picked up one from Fear Not and one from Joe Rossi...they were both the same size when I got them but since one has covered its burrow in premolt I’m assuming while the other is happily munching away...not sure if that is any indication of having a male (growing faster) and a female or not, but I’m hoping! Check back in a few years, lol! Another awesome video, always look forward to them!! 😊

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Christine! Sorry for the delay...I got really behind! Someone else was saying they bought two at the same size, and one is outpacing the other. Let's hope you guys have one of each sex. :) Thanks so much!

[@jonnysnakes5417]

I got a g pulchra sling about 6 months ago n its tiny, think ive seen it about 3 times lol, pretty sure i got it for about £35 in the uk so cant complain about that

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Jonny! Yeah, they tend to burrow a lot when they are smaller. Don't worry, though...they outgrow it.

[@az_pit_viper4270]

Hello Tom, I was wondering of you own a Cyriopagopus minax? If so do you plan on doing a video that would include that species? I plan on purchasing one as my first old world species. I tried search your channel but was unable to locate a video on them soI thought I would reach out and ask, thank you.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello! Sadly, I do not. That said, I REALLY need to get one soon!

[@az_pit_viper4270]

@@TomsBigSpiders awesome, can't wait to see what you think of it 🙂

[@helenafranzen9828]

So beautiful! Definitly on my wishlist!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much!

[@dretorbs6767]

Hi Tom and/or people with brazilian black. I was wondering if you have some advice for me. I got a 5 gallon tank with the substrate less than half filled that is still moist (a little too moist so I'm letting it dry more). I live in the basement which is colder than room temperature so I bought a ceramic heat emitter. I don't have her just yet but I want to make sure her enclosure is perfect. Do you guys have any tips for a complete beginner? Thanks

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Dre! What are your temperatures in your basement? I definitely wouldn't use a ceramic heater, as those can quickly overheat and kill a spider. If it's cold enough that you would need an extra heat source (less than 60 or so), then you could used a heat mat on the SIDE of the enclosure.

[@ShebRaee]

I’m hoping to either order one or find one at my local reptile show! I sure hope I can find one!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Well, good luck! I hope you find one. They can be a bit tricky to find. :)

[@CammedFox]

Love my Pulchra. it's grown about .0000002 inches in the 1.5 years I've had it lol

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Bahahahaha! My newest one is growing much faster than my young adult did!

[@jacru95]

Got a sling from a local breeder for a decent price. Paid $90 for both a pulchra 3/4” sling and a 1.5 inch P. Cancerides sling. I got the Cancerides based on your recommendation

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats, Jorge! That's awesome. LOVE P. cancerides. That thing will be 5" before your pulchra hits 1". haha :)

[@dananewsom5483]

Oooh... I just saw 2 of these at the pet store I buy all my bugs and supplies from. I'm hoping there's still at least one there when I have a bit of money available later this month 😩

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Grab one up, Dana! They are totally worth it. :)

[@albertclark2225]

Any type of lighting requirements at all?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

None. Many folks actually keep their tarantulas in the dark at all times. Personally, I like to give mine a normal day/night cycle (the lights in my tarantula room are on during the day and off at night). They do not have the lighting requirements that reptiles have.

[@didivanh8718]

I have 4 of these, just love this species! one is very shy and always hiding, the other 2 are chill and number 4 and the biggest one just attacks everything that comes nears, she is always trying to eat my brush and even attacks water droplets if i spray the terra! Took about 2 molds to start showing the black colors! Very different temperaments on all 4! hoping to breed in couple years! They prefer to be dry and will stay away from the wet side when i overflow the bowl. I live in Europe and can always find a couple at events, usually around 20 Euro for a sling.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

It's so cool to see the personality differences among specimens of the same species! Unfortunately, they are a bit more scarce over here.

[@Setsunadiava149]

My Grammostola pulchra sling grew like crazy the first six months and then just stopped 😭😹. Even slings I got waaaay later have out grown the plump, black, no molt wonder. I continue to side eye little Eddie( named after Iron Maiden’s mascot Eddie) every time one of my newer slings out grow them😅 it’s been seven months now Eddie! Come on!😭

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Mausamirai! Hahaha Mine has been stuck at around 1.75" for about 4 years now. It went two years between molts at one point, which is insane for a smaller sling. haha It might be a while before we have big beefy Ts! haha

[@TheDurker69]

My first T is a Gbb sling of about 1 inch. It has molted once in my care and is now in premolt again. First time it entered premolt it was only for little over a week before it molted, howerver now it has been almost 2 months since it last ate and im wondering about others experience with slings when it comes to how long the premolt period usually lasts for?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello! The premolt period can depend on temperatures, feeding schedules, and the size of the specimen. As tarantulas put on size, they tend to take longer to molt. When my GBB was about 1.25" or so, it would molt every two months or so. The more size it put on, the longer I would have to wait. I wouldn't worry yet.

[@whiterosetarantulas3150]

Great informative video as always Tom, I love this sp my male is 3" at the moment and growing very very slowly. I've just been to one of our local invert shows today and one of the German vendors and our spider shop had them for sale £25.00 per sling, shame you guys have to pay so much for these but they are a nightmare to get a sac from even after pairing which is not so difficult apparently!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, White Rose! Man, I wish the prices were like that over here. It seems like the Germans are having quite a bit of luck with them, which is great. Now, I just wish we could get some slings in the US. Thanks again!

[@gncbyron]

Got 2 of these Slings from Tanya..Cant wait till they grow up:)

[@tarantulakev8631]

Byron Gast do they take long to grow I've been looking in to get 2 or 3

[@gncbyron]

tarantula kev ..Everything I have heard is that they are really slow growing even the males.

[@NeniMaru]

I just bought one yesterday from Fear not Tarantula! So excited! I've heard a lot they take long time to grow too.

[@gncbyron]

Leslie Ann Yeah they might out live us...Well maybe me:)

[@tarantulakev8631]

Byron Gast ive heard the same but still will be worth the wait

[@leahhancock7474]

I am receiving a 1.5” G pulchra tomorrow morning. Is she considered a sling still or a juvie? Should I put her in something closer to the first or second enclosure that yours was in? I also have a small slider crib on its way from tarantula cribs which is 6x4x4. I just listened to one of your podcasts and you mentioned the mistake of too much ventilation. Would that enclosure have too much? Thanks and sorry for all the questions

[@TomsBigSpiders]

At 1.5", that spider is closer to being a "juvenile". That cage will be just fine for it, as they don't need a lot of moisture at that size. I would moisten a corner of the substrate just in case and make sure that it has a water dish handy. The ventilation will not be an issue! Congrats!

[@demolayakp]

I need help tom! i have a 2.5" pulchra that i am almost certain not in premolt and hasnt eaten in a month! Has no feeding response. Should i just do prekilled feeder and if she doesnt eat it, just throw it away after 24 hours?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm so sorry for the delay. Is she fat? This species tend to fatten up and then fast for quite some time. You can try prekilled and see what happens. How plump is it?

[@demolayakp]

@@TomsBigSpiders Still plump but not quite as plump compared to when I first got her which was 3 weeks ago. Ive tried prekilled and she ignores it. I am aware that they can fast for quite some time but I assumed that applies more to adults? She is 2.5" DLS. Is that a sling? Juvenile? Subb adult? I am not sure how to classify for that size

[@michaele.derrickjr.9200]

Hey buddy! I just recently received my Pulchra this past week. I’m very excited I finally have one in my collection. I noticed you had a dryer substrate in the large critter keeper. I know it varies from species to species and who gets what for that T. Is this substrate just top soil of a sort? I’m glad you did a update video of this species. I can always look back on older ones that you made and this for future references. Good to see you as always and keep up the awesome work you are doing and venturing into. Take care

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Michael! So sorry for the late reply...I got buried! Congratulations on getting one! I'm SO glad I bought one years ago, as they have been quite scarce. Most of my substrate is topsoil mixed with vermiculite and a bit of sand. I just like that I can play with the qualities of it by changing the proportions of the different elements. As usually, thanks so much! I hope you are doing well!

[@johnbrazell2433]

I have two G. pulchra that I got as 1/2 inch slings from Jamie's Tranchulas. They are not quite juveniles yet. I don't know if they are 'sac mates' or not but one is definitely growing faster then the other. So if they are male and female, I'm guessing I shouldn't try to breed them. What do you think?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Man, hopefully you have a male AND female. That would be great! :) Supposedly, inbreeding spiders doesn't have the same impact that inbreeding vertebrates has. That said, the male will likely mature long before the female is ready.

[@ZahaMage]

Good video buddy! always good to get some confirmation I am keeping my pulchra in good conditions :D

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Andy! Thanks so much, bud! :)

[@wakeupuk3903]

tom i need some advice this may be rare i have a rosie that has not moulted in over 8 yeras and is in great health !!!!!!!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

What size is she? Mine went almost 8 years between her last two molts. I've had her for 22 years, and she is likely close to 30. They don't mold very often once they reach adulthood. :)

[@gavnat9991]

Just picked up 2 4cm slings for 60 pounds (uk). My 3rd and 4th t!.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats...that's awesome!

[@gavnat9991]

Just so you know, you are directly responsible for my new addiction/obsession. My wife thanks you.