Top 10 Tarantulas To Handle (How To Hold a Spider)

In this weeks episode I go over the best practices for handling tarantulas, discuss the pros and cons of handling your tarantula, and give you my Top 10 Best Tarantula Species To Handle. Hopefully this Top 10 List will help you if you decide to attempt to handle your tarantula. 🖖💚🕷
00:00 Intro
00:44 Controversy
01:23 Pros vs. Cons of Handling
02:26 How To Handle a Tarantula
06:17 #10 Neishnocolus sp. Panama
06:57 #9 Brachypelma hamorii
07:31 #8 Caribena versicolor
08:28 #7 Grammostola porteri /rosea
09:15 #6 Avicularia avicularia
09:59 #5 Homoemma chilensis
10:33 #4 Grammostola pulchripes
11:13 #3 Aphonopelma bicoloratum
11:49 #2 Grammostola pulchra
12:28 #1 Alphonopelma chalcodes
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[@tarantulacollective]

Thanks for joing me for another episode of Tarantula Tuesday! For care sheets, t-shirts, hats, and all social media links: CHECK OUT MY WEBSITE! www.thetarantulacollective.com/

[@lizardon7096]

Why is the brachypelma Hamorii so low on the list? I mean every care guide I ever read said they are easily one of most docile T’s In the hobby and some sites even said they can be handled regularly as they don’t stress as much as others. I mean no hate I’m just really curious because I would definitely put them above pink toes and rose hairs.

[@robinhart5741]

You are the 💩when it comes to info....and just all around kool guy thank you for teaching....may be if id saw this sooner i wouldn't have this stupid phobia....snakes roaches mice love all animals....reg spooders have these freaky legs...but Ts are like fuzzy wuzzys! Pray for me! Im sincerely trying...🙏🙌

[@trvsfrnd]

Thx for doing this man! I wanna handle mine more but I rarely actually go for it cuz I don't wanna bother them.

[@randomguythatvibes5161]

Plz say no pun intended

[@tarantulasnthingsamanda8221]

Would love to see a husbandry video on ephebopus murinus!!!

[@pythonpatrolexotics]

I dont purposefully handle mine(although i have in the past), but showing people how to do it safely is important

[@tarantulacollective]

Thanks! I agree

[@sakarinieminen3205]

Safely for the spider please. A sting here and there but please dont drop the spider

[@LSZOE2001]

That's why I'm watching these video's. I still have to get my first but the more I know the better. Even if I'm never gonna handle mine... I'm still scared of spiders. But just in case! I don't want to drop it and kill it but also not take a bite!

[@pythonpatrolexotics]

@@LSZOE2001 Texas? 3 years ago I was VERY afraid of spiders! Now I have over 100(not sure exact number), but knowing how to deal with a spider that has ran up your arm is important

[@LSZOE2001]

@@pythonpatrolexotics I'm from the Netherlands. Yeah I'm reading a lot about different tarantula's and watching a ton of video's and talking to a lot of experienced tarantula's owners before I buy my first one. I want the best experience for the spider and myself. For the last 6 months I'm collecting all the info I can find.

[@baronpage6729]

One of the easiest in my opinion is the Texas Brown tarantula. You can pick them up in the wild. I save them from roadways all the time. I’ve only had one pose at me and that’s because it was mating season. I had to coax it onto the brim of my hat and once it was up there it calmed down immediately. So I guess you could say that there is a good reason to handle a tarantula: to help it cross the road😆

[@Indusxstan]

Wow! You are a kind fellow ❤️

[@nathanielleack4842]

I suppose we know why the tarantula crossed the road. He was a looking for a girlfriend!

[@TypewriterJustice]

i recently captured one of these in my shower, and BAM just like that, i'm now a tarantula nerd :) such cool critters

[@puru7976]

imagine essentially getting hit on by a tarantula, I think that's scarier than one actually trying to intimidate you

[@trexnoises4071]

Found one of these in the road today. Never thought about having one as a pet. But took it home, set it up a terrarium now I have a pet tarantula

[@Katiethewizard]

I'm personally a person who likes to handle their tarantula, I feel like handling my avicularia (safely!!) is something that gives me a bigger appreciation for these amazing little animals! I don't handle her all the time, but i do occasionally and I really appreciate your info on handling and not totally dismissing people who handle them❤

[@stevepalpatine2828]

I have an OBT I can't get near it lol I'd like to hold her but she tries to murder me every time I have to go near her. I got bit once transferring her to a new house and that shit hurts. I love her but shes kinda mean.

[@jadeslocombe9317]

@@stevepalpatine2828 you may well be totally up to speed, but have you checked the more recent findings on their preferred environment? A great deal of the reason they had such a reputation is that they were kept in enclosures that didn't actually suit them - which means they often didn't feel safe and so felt their only option was to fight. Of course yours may well just have an attitude. But it's worth double checking the husbandry, especially if you haven't for a while. But, like, it's also an OW and not something you want to annoy. So not the sort I'd put high on a list for 'handleable tarantulas'.

[@joshuabuell2097]

@@stevepalpatine2828 my Nicaraguan tliltocatl albopilosus is supposed to be one of the most docile but mine kicks hairs at everything 😂😂😂

[@Ganymed27]

I used to suffer from severe arachnophobia. But this changed when I had a small rose hair tarantula sat on the palm of my hand at a pet show. I warned the keeper that I might get scared and to watch out for the spider, but everything was fine. And it was great to have this small fluffy animal with its little paws on my hand. I think this might really help a lot of people with their fear of spiders. Many tarantulas are like teddybear spiders when you look at them.

[@domcarpenter1716]

I got over my phobia at a pet store. The man put my baby (I named her cinnamon) on my hand. I purchased her the same day and handle her using this advice. I went from phobic to wanting to collect and raise these animals. I intend to purchase more when I have the proper room ( the pet store man had a bunch of Ts and even called his wife to help me pick the best supplies for my "fall in love" scenario)

[@djklermundable]

I am also very comforted by their hairyness/furyness! I like that, "eight legged teddy bears!"

[@leggi_bois4eva]

I dont know if I'll ever handle *my* spoods, but its literally not affecting my life whatsoever if someone decides to handle theirs 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@tarantulacollective]

I love this comment!

[@jurassicgaming7498]

Elida Silva I have a blode Arizona femal large juvenile but it wrong so I don’t let i be just free and chill I love this comment

[@offthebooksmusic]

i agree! it just sucks to see people stressing out their Ts :(

[@JK-vy8vh]

My friend has a colbalt blue he handles her alot it's cool you put your hand down and she just crawls right on. Scary looking spider tho.

[@Theboyreds79]

It’s always good to know how to because you’ll probably need to one day. I’m also the lucky owner of an evil Rosie that will never be handled and wants me dead.

[@tarantulacollective]

Access to information that isnt needed is always better than no information available when needed.

[@rumpelstilzz]

My first T ever in 2002 also was one of the psycho rosies. Still today makes me wonder how anyone can count rosies as docile :D

[@riveratrackrunner]

my rose hair was only defensive when after it molted. and that obvious because it still is hardening. other than that "Raziel", is a cool T.

[@TarantulamanNC]

My very first T was a Rosie. She was so calm and never showed in defensive posture toward me. Yet I have heard a lot of folks say the opposite. I truly think all T’s can be different. I’ve seen the same comments made about very single species.

[@LinariaFreeze]

I got my Rosie from the SPCA after someone found her in a bin (thought she was dead when she molted), and she is the sweetest spider I've ever met. Never any trouble, but I have friends with super evil Rosies as well. They are so unpredictable!

[@Jellyman1129]

9:50 “A lot of times, it’s people’s first tarantula.” Shows Pinktoe jumping 3 feet. 😳

[@justachonkyspider]

Because they're very unlikely to bite but yes they do jump (and shoot poo). They're an arboreal species of tarantula so jumping is what they do. Yeah you wanna hold these like on the floor or on a bed so they can't fall and hurt themselves when they jump. My cousin had the sweetest pinktoe ever it didn't live long though because it was a male. I just got a female one too a few weeks ago....so far she's just been chilling in her house I haven't vibe checked her yet but when I put her in her house she just kinda hid her face and didn't move so I think she's the shy type. 🤔

[@Jellyman1129]

@@justachonkyspider I know, it was just funny with the timing. Yeah, pinktoes are a wild bunch.

[@justachonkyspider]

@@Jellyman1129 yeah :) almost like a huge jumping spider. Well I just think they're neat. It makes them a little unpredictable but i think it adds to their character cuz you never know when it's gonna pounce 😄 .....I've lost so many wild caught jumping spiders i wanted for pets by having them bounce off my face while trying to clean their enclosures 😅 they weren't harmed just escaped back into the wild. As long as no spiders get hurt from jumping around I think it's hilarious watching them jump 😆

[@marleahcabano5423]

Lmao! Omg, the Tarantula Police 😂 Love it.

[@chrisgomez3078]

They are like angry feminists , they will keep coming at you no matter what .

[@MegaMrmeathead]

I’m so glad I’m not the only one

[@thepeemachine8992]

the Bible says no cussing.

[@chickenwing601]

I once handled my p.metallica female, not because i wanted it, no because when i open the enclousure she jumped direct on my t-shirt.

[@Rob_Thorsman]

She wanted a hug.

[@sowasism]

I love that you did this video and your approach. Some will handle their T's regardless of opinion, so it's great to supply those who choose to do so with a list and techniques as well as pros and cons. The mixture of humor and education make your videos some the best!

[@tarantulacollective]

Thanks so much. That's what I was going for....not really trying to take a side...just accepting that it is a reality and trying to put out the best info I could on the subject. I'm not here to tell people what to do...I'm just sharring my experiences.

[@jessp4016]

Yes! Everything you said 😊

[@Deadf00l]

Whether people enjoy handling their tarantulas or not, I think it's important that anyone who decides to get one at least knows how to handle one, and is prepared to do it. You never know when you might have to deal with an escapee, or just need to move them around.

[@user-ro6sb3ep2m]

I was looking through the comments and i really respect that he likes the comments or takes the time to read them

[@tarantulacollective]

Well thank you

[@Firealone9]

I've had my Rose Hair for 5 years now and she only changes moods when she molts. When I first got her she was the calmest tarantula ever and handling her got me over my fear of spiders. I was inexperienced at that time though and would just simply grab or scoop her up when I wanted to handle her which I didn't know at the time was not the way to go about it. Well rarely over the years when she would molt you would think she was an OBT. Threat posture every time I stuck anything close to her and sometimes would even bolt towards and attempt to bite. She would stay that way all the way to the next molt and then all of sudden be super passive again. Very weird, but a good lesson that even the most docile species will change moods and in my opinion humanizes Tarantulas as they have mood swings just like us and other mammals. Totally awesome creatures.

[@TarantulamanNC]

I wonder is it truly personality or a human like issue at all. I wonder if it’s simply the reactions they can have depending on what took place physically when she molted. Like maybe she didn’t have a perfect molt and she’s uncomfortable in some way. Or for example when we think we are testing their temperament to see if it’s good day to handle them that it has nothing to do with temperament but rather a simple reaction? That sometimes they get more startled for example and react naturally or mechanically. Yet if we just wait a few minutes to an hour will get a different reaction that doesn’t startle or effect them as much. Honestly, it’s something will never know in my humble opinion :)

[@ruthlesslistener]

I can't imagine molting to be a great process (it looks super itchy to me personally), so that's pretty understandable! And quite sweet imo, because you'd never imagine a spider to get grumpy like us

[@angehdabneh9686]

Omgosh, I have had the exact same experience with a rose hair! She was so chill and docile and then she molted and became Satan. She'd threat pose and slap the glass if I even got near! It blew my mind. I've been wondering if that'd ever happened to someone else!

[@cristinagutierrez2780]

I owned a beautiful Rose Haired tarantula for 16 years. She was so sweet and docile never aggressive. I'm a teacher and kept her as a class pet. My kids loved to watch her and would get especially excited when I would bring her out of her terrarium every once in a while (I never let them hold her). She sadly passed away a week ago, I am heart broken. I don't know what to tell my former students, who always ask about her when they see me (how is she or has she molted again? etc.). It's just very sad.

[@Skrenja]

Rose hairs can be very unpredictable. Mine was very docile 360 days a year -- but the other 4 days? DEMON spider.

[@LDericher]

Another valuable tip: Don't blow air onto the T

[@KawaiiKatelynUnicorn]

Why

[@LDericher]

@@KawaiiKatelynUnicorn Usually they bolt really hard when blown on (or even get defensive)

[@ant_keeper9589]

@We Have To Go Back never going to blow on mine but isn't the same as wind blowing on the tarantula in nature

[@donm-tv8cm]

If you're talking about abruptly blowing on them with your mouth, absolutely correct. It will invariably startle them, causing a defense reaction with a high probability of hair-kicking. Why stress them? I had 2 T's back in my teenage years (lllooonnnngggg time ago!), and I did clueless stupid things like that once in a while, like when trying to get them to move while showing them off in their cage to a friend. Treat them kindly and with gentleness and they'll be chill.

[@veledwin1]

@@ant_keeper9589 no, it's not the same at all

[@YtrirrheksWife]

Thank you, loved this video! I was just attacked by some keepers recently when they learned I handle my T’s and accused of not caring about their well-being. Which, is insane, I love my T’s like they’re my own children and I handle them properly, in fact i obsess over making sure the environment around them is good for handling and that they’re in a good mood first. It really hurt my feelings to be shit on like that.

[@Leiathroughthelookingglass]

Every hobby has gatekeepers, don’t let them get to you! Enjoy your tarantulas :)

[@stephanieporter532]

Saw the title i was thinking uh oh some people arnt going to be happy. Me personally i dont handle any of mine only on extremely rare occasions. Just once when im unpacking them then never again. Only one time "my sister is super scared of spiders" so she wanted to hold one, i couldn't say no she was facing her fears. So i let her hold my Avic. Im just happy looking at them seeing them do spider things. I also have jumping spiders so if i wanna hold a spider thats my go to. Another amazing video!

[@tarantulacollective]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. It is certainly a polarizing topic these days. I attempted to navigate it best i could.

[@pegas1ster]

curly hairs arent even on the list? surprising! Mine is so docile and they're the first thing that comes to mind to show to people who are scared of typical spiders.

[@GlitterGum]

Curly hairs don't jump a lot right?

[@rickytarr8585]

@@GlitterGum Nope.

[@GlitterGum]

@@rickytarr8585 cool thanks :)

[@sosadeniro5106]

I have a black curly hair is this possible 😅 I’m a reptile type of guy tried some new I’m scared of mine a little😂

[@rickytarr8585]

@@sosadeniro5106 Nah they don't jump. Seems to me the absolute calmest is Aphonapelma species, Henzi and Anax. My Curly hair is kinda skiddish, but definitely doesn't jump.

[@donnajocatlady3839]

My TINY Avicularia avicularia comes up to the top every time I open the enclosure. It decided to hang out on my finger while I was watering it the other day. It was so sweet!!! I'm allergic to pretty much everything on the planet, so I don't want to push my luck by handling my Ts. I've SEEN the pics of irritation. No thank you! But I'd love to be able to cuddle the fuzzies. 😭

[@beritblackie3168]

❤️❤️ Arh, sounds like a real little sweetie. UK here; I have a 1year old A Avicularia and it is generally really calm when I have it out. It used to be very jumpy and even poop on me with amazing accuracy when I first got it, but that has changed. Phew! Love it to bits.

[@kennythetrend3688]

Thinking about getting a Caribbeana Versicolor because they are probably the most colorful New World species that you can handle, but I haven't have had a T of my own yet. So I'll probably get an Arizona Blonde as my first T, but Caribbeana Versicolor is a very tempting one for me.

[@jeffsummerhill]

I've always been curious about handling, but I am all about having them stress free as possible. Great video, Richard. Thanks for covering the subject.

[@tarantulacollective]

Thanks brother! I hope I walked the line without taking sides and put out some helpful info.

[@CobraKaiNoMercy]

My favorite tarantulas to handle are the: Grammostola Pulchra - "Brazilian Black" & Tliltocatl Albopilosus - "Curlyhair" On a side note, I don't regularly handle my tarantulas. But if I want to (which is rare), I will. Anyone who says to never handle (like under ANY cirumstances) a tarantula can kindly piss off.

[@drb9223]

Why those?

[@CobraKaiNoMercy]

@@drb9223 Because they are the ones I own and like.

[@hedonism-bot428]

Maaaaannnn I was quite surprised to not hear the curly hair! I’m gunna be getting my first tarantula (a curly) this weekend. Even though I would have preferred a red knee or Chilean rose hair, the curly is locally available and I read they are one of the best starters. So I guess I’ll find out how well they handle (off course not too often)

[@CobraKaiNoMercy]

@@hedonism-bot428 Out of all those you listed the Curlyhair is the best for sure. Every one I have owned have been very docile and hearty eaters.

[@realbarry]

@@CobraKaiNoMercy In my case, my Curly hair doesnt like it lol he is spicy and there is no shot im holding him

[@helenafranzen9828]

First time I ever handled a T the spider was more docile than me. I used to be arachnophobic so handling a big nice spider helped me a lot to get over it. Nowadays I only handle my T if I absolutely need to or if some friend wants to experience the same thing. Knowing how to handle it is essential not to hurt the spider but also not yourself, so thanks for the video.

[@anarchyreins]

My Honduran curly hair seems to fall asleep on my hand😁

[@tarantulacollective]

Lol

[@Sam-zy7pu]

For real?

[@lizardon7096]

They are really nice tarantulas

[@kuceracm]

Lucky! My curly is a total demon lol. He will threat pose if you just look at him funny.

[@ross5961]

I live in Honduras and have a subspecies of Brachypelma that I believe has not been classified as of yet, and it too is a sweetheart, super docile and in my experience albopilosum tends to be docile, especially as adults. And the one I have that I still have to find what species it actually is is also a super docile cutie

[@Zg_1357]

I bought my first Tarantula, an Arizona Blond at a reptile and exotic show this weekend. She's a cute thing and very easy to handle.

[@jacquelynbritz5062]

I want one I held a balm size one they wanted 350 for it is that normal I live in California

[@Zg_1357]

@@jacquelynbritz5062 way way over priced for an Arizona blond

[@jacquelynbritz5062]

Any idea what much they should be for a adult and where I might be able to get one I would like to hand pick it nad check temperament

[@mikomistar1423]

I appreciate you’re acknowledgment of both sides. It’s really important imo that people can at least understand both sides of the line. I never go for mine but I have a big ol fat G Actaeon who likes to take a stroll when I do maintenance. When playtime is over it’ll stroll back in. But I have others who obviously I would -never- even give the opportunity. It is what it is as long as you and the animals are safe and calm.

[@Leoriic]

This is definitely my favourite species and out of all my Ts which include pulchra, pulcripes, avicularia, albopilosum and porteri (both mine are psycho rosies) the G actaeon is by far my most docile and calmest of them all and only one I will purposely hold on a regular basis. But like Richard said they all have their own personalities and can change at anytime.

[@RainyEncore39]

I just picked up one of these species this past week! I am already completely fascinated by it. Care and husbandry seem to be similar to other grammastolas but I'm wondering if you have any specific tips?

[@perfectchaos5721]

My daughter really wants to get a tarantula and I’m really glad we found your videos. They are very informative and makes me more comfortable with the idea, since I’m not a fan of spiders 😅.

[@mclarissa371]

Your daughter sounds amazing and so do you. The support you're showing her despite that you're not a fan of spiders is amazing.❤️

[@brightbkh07]

Did you ever get one? I used to be afraid of all spiders and tarantulas but after I started watching KZbin videos about them I became fascinated with Tarantulas. Now I have two, a G. pulchra/Brazilian Black and a C. Cyaneopubescens/Green Bottle Blue. I love them so much now. I even hold the G. pulchra every now and then! It helped me tremendously to get over my fear of them.

[@danwinks4917]

I only handle my T when I need move to clean it's house. That's it, cause you are correct. She not my friend and doesn't want to be stressed out.

[@PETROCK-NROLL]

I totally agree with you on this, I have and still would handle certain T’s I own but it isn’t something I do regularly, I just don’t feel the need to hold them! Great top 10 I’d put the G Pulchra and A Chalcodes at the top too! 🤘🏼

[@tarantulacollective]

I feel you. I dont go out of my way to handle or pull them out of an enclosure just to handle because I'm bored...I dont have that kind of time. Lol. But if one walks out onto my hand, I definitely take a few moments to enjoy the expereince.

[@aemowl7984]

For many years growing up as a child I’ve always been HORRIFIED of spiders, and I always had the dream of changing that fear. Great video!

[@aemowl7984]

And now I have officially done it.

[@sandybanjo]

Four years ago, I adopted a female Rosie from a local pet store.......she's still with us, and has been our only choice in bring out of her enclosure to show. No telling her age. She has not molted since we've had her. but still a real treasure to show the kids that are interested. She has never posed a threat or bolted.

[@lizardon7096]

Curly hairs should definitely be on this list.

[@coolingstatue11]

RIZADON the RAT my curly hair absolutely will not be touched. She’s beautiful but super skittish. I hope it’s not something to do with her past owner, but she won’t let me near her. But yeah I agree, they are great when they let you hold them.

[@YokaiPie]

@@coolingstatue11 could be wild caught, maybe?

[@BeeRumblin13]

My curly is pretty mean also. Its big and not happy even when i open its door to drop in food. So is my stripe knee. That thing is fast and trys attacking the tongs . And it keeps burying its water dishes.

[@TarantulamanNC]

They are typically great terrestrial tarantulas that don’t seem to mind being held so I agree. But like all T’s, you will have the skittish ones.

[@matthewzito6130]

I think one of the advantages of keeping tarantulas in relatively large, naturalistic habitats is that you can view and photograph them without having to disturb them (although this will also depend somewhat on the species and its habits).

[@APisMe]

I don't handle my Ts, they handle me. I reach in to tidy up, feed, water, whatever and sometimes they feel like going for a stroll on their mama, while my horror stricken boyfriend looks on in fear. 2008 me would never think I'd be hanging out with my Tarantula Fam

[@JunFeril]

If my Ts wanna crawl on me, I dont say no. That's my opinion.

[@joshuafitzroy356]

C. Versicolors really blew my mind when I got mine. Best T ever 😁

[@tarantulacollective]

They're so cool....I wish they would stay that bright blue color they have when slings forever though

[@joshuafitzroy356]

@@tarantulacollective still an amazing animal 😁.

[@mandyshannon9738]

I love your page. Ive only been in this hobby for a year. And it's because of your pages. Thank you. Would love to know more about the bigger ones as I own 10 of them. 😎😎

[@dsmith8984]

I’ve never been interested in owning a tarantula but I watched this video from curiosity and was extremely impressed with how good, informative and educational to the hobby this video is. Subscribed and liked.😉 ......who knows maybe one day I’ll own one and this video kicked it off. Keep up the great quality vids. 👍

[@tarantulacollective]

That's very cool! Welcome to the channel...it is awesome to have you. I have a lot of other videos as well that focus on just one specific species at a time....you should check a few of them out if/when you decide to get a tarantula!

[@stevesteve9621]

U got one a month ago I was the same way.

[@pallasade1807]

Love this! So when I was in New Mexico, there was a HUGE tarantula migration. The small black desert tarantulas were crossing the roads by the hundreds. I stopped and saved all that I could. They were EXTREMELY docile, and I even brought one home with me. I hold him often and he is so friendly and docile. I even let my 8yr old brother hold him. He’s so therapeutic and an amazing pet. I think he’s the male version of the desert blonde, so that makes sense! I had a pink toe but she had a temperament for sure. I also have a large female curly haired and I don’t hold her much; she gets defensive and kicks hairs a lot and Is often moody. But still gorgeous!

[@bflo1000]

Which T are you talking about Marxi, Schroederi, Vagans or which?

[@dankauffman8568]

Had a B smithi thirty years ago . Handled it all the time . Used to pick it up with thumb and index finger . Never got bit , but the hairs were terrible ! I remember scratching myself bloody . Don't feel the need to handle anymore . Just getting old , I guess . Great video as always !

[@jairem5710]

Richard: I wouldn’t want those hairs in my mouth. Billie Eilish: 🕷👄

[@AlbinoRhino1886]

I was terrified of all spiders until I started watching the dark den and exotics lair and now you. Now spiders dont even bother me and I own 2

[@2yearoldeastercandy935]

I was adding some more substrate to my curly hair’s enclosure and he was so calm when I moved him to a different container. I didn’t pick him up with my hand but it was so tempting to!

[@bigjoe2271]

The #1. OH YA !!!! I love my ARIZONA BLONDE ...AWESOME VIDEO AS ALWAYS BRO !!

[@tarantulacollective]

Thanks a lot my friend!

[@matthiasgraf1232]

Thank you Richard for all the input you’re giving us there, all your videos are very valuable!❤

[@NvOffRoad]

My first tarantula was a rose hair. It was very calm. My second was a Green bottle blue. Both I would handle only once in a while. Never had any problems with either one of them. That was almost 7 years ago. I missed having a tarantula so yesterday I picked up a curly hair.

[@chrisscerbo5731]

I'm perfectly fine watching you hold them from here in my house and you holding them at your place

[@Hamorich]

I love my Chaco Golden Knee, but I'm a bit sad this morning after I found out that it's a male :( well at least I still have some years to spend with him definitely need to get more Chacos! lol he's very calm all the time even though he's always moving stuff around in his enclosure, I'm very lucky that I have one that always keeps the water dish unbelievably clean, crystal clear! 😂😂😂

[@misteryguy5304]

Bro buy a female for him

[@Hamorich]

@@misteryguy5304 yes, will do for sure!😁

[@naymeequillo]

I absolutely love how respectful you speakers about everyone involved, including the spooders. Thank you.

[@taybug2942]

Im new to the Tarantula world, and i just want to say i appreciate your channel so much. I enjoy all the information i receive! thanks so much for what you're doing!

[@panqnrae3968]

I’m really researching a lot of different animals and species wanting to eventually have some . I really appreciate the education and the charisma you have at teaching people like me. Thanx again.

[@NJ51958]

Great video man cause even though I'm not into holding my T when I eventually get them, this list gives me a good idea of some spiders that may be less prone to defensive displays/flicking hairs at me during a re-home.

[@jessp4016]

AWESOME video Richard! Everything you said was considerate, funny, compassionate, entertaining and/or appreciated 😁

[@mgschlegel1205]

Just got my first juvenile Brachypelma Emilia just this week. I'm so excited to get started in this hobby. Your instructional videos have been a great help!

[@darylconnolly6877]

My pokie gives me no choice, always jumps in my arm just goes up then back down (split second as it jumps on my arm and when it's charging up my arm) i would be lying if I didn't say it freaks me out but I just stand still with my eyes closed let it do its thing 😂

[@marleahcabano5423]

The first T of mine that I handled was my B. hamorii sling. Mostly bc it came out during a rehouse. Super chill and probably would have sat there a while. The other was my G. iheringi sling. Rehouse again. Pretty chill ... kinda, lol. I'd love to handle everyone once in a while, but I'm not in a rush. Guess I'm still a little nervous. Definitely want an Arizona Blonde now - thanks, Richard lol

[@zebracornking]

Awesome video, Richard. My A. Chalcodes is always nervous when I handle it, but never defensive. You're a gem

[@MikkosCassadine]

Love this guy! He is so diplomatic. Wonderful video. Very helpful. Thumbs up!

[@AcanLord]

i wish keeping jumping spiders would be more common. i know most of them are small but i just think they are very interesting.

[@heathergranite5144]

My boyfriend and I kept a handful of jumpers about 2 years ago. I absolutely loved having them and watching them! They remind me of cats in the way they are curiously looking around and how they hunt. I wasn’t a big spider fan before having them, not afraid just didn’t like being close or touched by any. But it was a great learning experience and a helper to be more comfortable around them. I also think they’re kind of adorable 😅 I wish it was way more common as well

[@TheSpiritualGenie]

I have 5 babies that I am raising and I just absolutely love and respect jumping spiders. They are one of the most curious, friendly, adorable spiders. I had the mother before she died but I didn’t handle her cuz honestly she wasn’t into it. She was sweet yet being handled was scary for her, understandably! I also feared she would jump off of me and hit the floor or a hard surface and become injured. We mutually respected each other. Before she died she let me hold her, she didn’t want to get off of me because I’m warm and familiar. Uh just love them. I cried my eyes out when Baby the Mama died, who would have thought?

[@Solohikelife]

Great video man. I’m looking at getting my first t and will be wanting to handle it so I can educate my kids not to be scared of spiders

[@alainabell19]

Thank you! So much info and love.

[@TrickyNano]

As someone who has always handled their tarantulas, a word of advice. The reason we sometimes see people online claiming they’re supposedly docile tarantula has a bad temper, is because they only started handling said tarantula as an adult. To domestic a tarantula, you need to start holding them as slings. In fact you’re gonna wanna handle them once a day as slings if you want a spider that grows up to never be bothered by your hands. That’s not to say they won’t be skittish, depending on the species. For example i domesticated my Chilean rose hair as a baby, and it never so much as raised it’s butt at me as an adult. It never flicked, and was never even startled by my picking him up or moving things around in his cage. It actually makes their lives less stressful. If they know hands are safe, when you mess with their cage they aren’t stressed. But it’s gotta start when they’re spiderlings for the best results!

[@RoastedToastedPoops]

I used to be an Arachnophobe but jumping spiders helped me get over it. I also started to educate myself which overall made me less averse. Its easier to not be scared when you understand something. After realizing there are only 2 spiders in my area with medically significant venom, both of which VERY easy to identify, I realized how silly my fears were. I recently bought my first T after researching the hobby for a few months, and I got a juvie Avicularia avicularia from petsmart. Its unfortunately got a subpar enclosure right now, the one it came with, but its at least very docile and doesn't seem to resent me. As soon as I get paid I will be getting a larger enclosure and rehousing it. I may use the opportunity as an excuse to handle it if its feeling in the mood. It only seems to want to be active when I'm at work, otherwise, just sits in the corner doing nothing. I might name it Lazybones for being such a couch- I mean web potato.

[@cadaverousghoul8008]

Great video Richard I love that you are very open minded to handling, I think regardless of how some people feel, there are people out there who will handle their tarantulas and rather than pushing the no handling on them it is better to teach them the safety of handling them. I am not opposed to handling but in my view and opinion, it is when the tarantula wants to be or the opportunity is there where theh climb on me, other than that I wont. I have not handled any of mine yet because they have shown no signs of wanting to come out. My Brachypelma's and grammostola would rather kick at me and that's signs enough they dont want to be bothered haha. Great video love it!

[@tarantulacollective]

Thanks..that was what I was going for. Just saying "dont do it" helps no one. People these days mistake their opinions, feelings, and beliefs as universal truths or facts. The world isn't that black and white. So if people are going to handle, then there should at least be some info out there that describes the best practices for handling.

[@cadaverousghoul8008]

My belief is some tarantulas show signs of being sociable some are with others in the wild. I'm sure with no doubt that I will end up with one that will want to be held and it does happen. I think tarantulas are more intelligent than what we give them credit for. And it is something that we shouldn't forbid but educate on, making the hobby bother safer and better for us and for our tarantulas is so important rather than scaring people away from it or from getting help altogether which can do more damage than good.

[@lisaforbes191]

man your videos are awesome, I've only been in the hobby for a little over a yr and have learned so much from you! thank you Richard.

[@christaburns1889]

just here to say that i'm an absolute novice in the spider world, i've never owned a T but i'm really enjoying and appreciating how you present and view facts and perspectives on different aspects of the hobby. i'm learning a lot and loving the videos! thanks! subscribed!

[@exoticbarbs4121]

I've had this one G. Pulchripes that I've never had a chance to handle. He's really defensive and would even give a threat posture.

[@Miki-pq4mx]

My first tarantula was a pink toe and I'm planning on getting another one soon, mine died a few months back and I'm finally ready to get a new baby.

[@thewilberforce]

I’m glad to see this video. One of the things that kept me from being in the hobby was the thought that I “have to” handle them. I’m just into it. And knowing that you can still enjoy them and not handle them is a good thing.

[@antony1312]

Richard your videos are brilliant. Love them. And you are helping me hugely through them. God bless you and your work.

[@tarantulacollective]

You are very welcome

[@brianlindsay9097]

"Veriscolors jump." Yes they do, and run like greased lightning. But still very sweet. I've seen people catch and pick up tarantulas by cupping their hand and putting it over the top of them; or by using their thumb and index finger between the 2nd and 3rd pairs of legs, grasping the cephalothorax. What are your feelings about these methods?

[@Muddflud]

My calmest and most tolerant to being prodded when I need her to move is my P metallica, my most defensive bordering on psychopathic is my L parahybana. I dont handle my T's though I just dont wanna risk a ruptured abdomen.

[@hubertuswine]

Wow, mine are exactly the other way around... my L parahybana does not care about me opening the enclosure, doing maintenance, I even added soil and a small plant while she was in her corner chillin'. My P metallica on the other hand... I wouldn't dare to put my hands in that enclosure...

[@justinwillardchen1609]

Thanks for the great video!

[@mikemullikin8942]

You do a terrific job with your channel. People are gonna do what they're gonna do, but there's a good chance that the guidelines you provide will prevent injuries. That said, I really enjoy all of your content and the way you present it. Thank you.

[@rumpelstilzz]

There's only one T in my collection that climbs onto my hand voluntarily if I open the enclosure and put my hand near the spider. It's my c.perezmilesi juvie, she's super inquisitve and I doubt she 'likes' my hand, she's just curious and loses her mind while exploring. None the less, I think every keeper *should* handle one of his more docile specimen from time to time, for a very simple reason: It can always happen, while a rehouse or something, that you'll find yourself handling your T by accident, when she bolts on you. And then you'll *have* to handle her and you better know how to and you better be used to handling so *you* don't get startled and do some mistake that ends in your T dropping on the floor and dying with internal bleedings. Next week I'm doing a little show to a school class of ten year olds and I'll be handling my c.versicolor mature male to show the kids it's nothing to be afraid of. It will be him because he's as brave as he's slow due age, and he's an arboreal - should the worst case happen and he'll drop, he's more likely to survive it. Ah yes, always be sitting on the floor while handling and keep your hands low, a falling spider is the biggest danger in the whole thing...

[@snoot4873]

First I have to say I'm obsessed with the opening music it's badass Is there a way you can or have a video on your past fear of spiders/Ts? I have arachnophobia big time but I'm finding your videos my way to at least help get over my insane irrational fear with the safety of watching and not being close lol

[@user-sr9tf1gk1u]

I think this video is worth watching as an informative aspect. It does not urge you to handle the T's, vice versa. It gives you proper information about handling information 'if' you have to handle them in any case. I enjoy watching most of your video Rich. Looking forward to watch another care&husbandry vid's!

[@clydesdale1775]

Glad to see the two tarantulas I'm looking into as my first are on this list! (Caribena V. And Avicularia A.)

[@smithtrooperxcix7059]

I am a beginner, of course I've done my studies on tarantula keeping, and I am eager to dig deeper in the hobby, my first "T" is an Avic, her name is Bullet because of her speed. I choose not to hold her because I bought her from a chain pet store, and she's most likely never been exposed to human hands, but whenever I buy another T, I'll be sure it's a sling, that way I will feel better about handling it so it could possibly get used to hands, if that makes any sense, or if possible, but like I said, Bullet is strictly an observation pet

[@TarantulamanNC]

From my experience the wild caught are the same as captive bred far as their temperament. I’ve owned both and I never seen a difference in their attitudes being wild caught or captive bred. At one time I owned over 600 tarantulas so I’m speaking from some experience. Not saying I’m an EXPERT though haha Just sharing my experiences

[@TarantulamanNC]

@Kevstah honestly I spent a lot of time feeding and cleaning my animals back then. I no longer have them. I only have 4 Tarantulas left now. Soooooo much easier to care for haha

[@-theonlyseasurf-2975]

Please remember to always check temperament though as they might change their behaviour after molting

[@arieltoner4582]

Great list. Agreed on those species fully! As always loved to watch.

[@astateato]

Thanks man. Love the breakdown.

[@TheGrowlingAraknid]

Very educational, thanks for sharing man! 😎👍🏿🔥

[@aquasian21]

Great vid and very well said! I’ve only ever handled my G pulchra but since she last moulted her demeanour has changed and she became quite bolty so I haven’t handled her since. Just not worth the risk in my opinion.

[@albertaguidetwahl469]

Sian Little we experienced the same with ours. My wife was arachnophobic before I got into the hobby now loves them as much as I do. She handled our G. Pulchra but since it’s last moult it got very defensive, threat poses and slapping. We’ll see what happens after the next one

[@kinandpat]

12:58 Spider: imma eat you Cricket or roach:sure Spider: here I come Cricket or roach: sike

[@donavantidwell9399]

I 100% agree with your opinion on handing.

[@stephaniestenten593]

Thank you so much for all your amazing T information. I have been wanting a Tarantula for years and you have definitely shared great for beginner information and knowledge. You have made my decision on where to start and how to properly, safely, and responsibly care for a Tarantula. Thank you

[@tarantulacollective]

Any time!

[@brianhoffman6483]

Just got my order from Fear Not at the same time you release a video....oh what a good day today is shaping up to be :)

[@stephanieporter532]

I get mine tomorrow! FNT is the best! Super excited to get new babys!

[@tarantulacollective]

Hooray for new spiders!

[@PaulsMom93]

I love your personality and how you don’t want to offend anyone so you explain both sides

[@trevaturner6066]

I've been trying to work up the nerve to handle my aphonopelma chalcodes. She is so sweet and calm. Great video!

[@P4bs]

I'm genuinely surprised you didn't include the b.smithi , they're everywhere, used in advertising etc, friendly ish lil fellas. Plus they're super cute

[@tarantulacollective]

The changed the name of the B. smithi to the B. hamorii. It is even more confusing bc there is still a species of T that instilled called the B. smithi

[@P4bs]

@@tarantulacollective oh my I must have missed that, I do apologise 😅

[@carolineadams7283]

I’m waiting on delivery of my very first tarantulas I am getting a Pterinopelma sazimai, Lasiodora parahybana and Hapalopus sp Colombia I went a bit crazy 😜

[@SensenmannXT]

I will get next week my first T´s. I don´t know how many it will be. I want B. Auratum, G. Pulchripes and C. Cyaneopubescens. I have a big list of others even some old worlds for later. We are all crazy XD

[@ItsJadine]

I just got two P. Sazimai slings and they are super fast and skittish, I think you’ll have your hands full with the LP too 😂 they’re are so many beautiful species I want nearly all of them 😂 plus I got a couple of PZB those will be my hamsters once they grow up 😂 hopefully anyway. I really need a C. Versicolour in my life 😍 I only started in September and I’ve got 12 already 🤦🏾‍♀️ I’m hooked 😂

[@wojciechkubat2382]

@@SensenmannXT G. Pulchripes was my first T, like 8months ago. Perfect Beginner species, slow, easy to handle. Few months later i got chroma. Cyaneo. , way faster than G.pulchripes and Iam not gonna touch her :P. 2 months ago i got tliltocatl albopilosum nicaragua, obt and p. Metallica. Just georgous. All juvenale females. Respect for obt, i felt fear for the first time :)

[@kuceracm]

Oh you will love the Pumpkin! I have one and it's my current favorite. She's actually my most chill T I have atm lol.

[@blankidfan]

very well said and educational!

[@chefbarnes1]

I love your videos, you do a great job explaining about your tarantulas. Please keep making videos

[@buffruddy297]

As a kid I liked to hold my spiders but as I’ve gotten older I realize how unnecessary it is and now I’m pretty against regularly handling them. That being said, sometimes there’s a good reason to do so. The last time I let myself hold one was for a class project. In high school biology I brought my G. porteri to demonstrate tarantulas and a local false widow species to demonstrate “true spiders.” (Project was on spider evolution). I held both independently under a projector to demonstrate their body construction and various behaviors. I allowed this handling as it was meant to be educational and my porteri was very calm. She sat on the projector table without moving an inch unless I proded her to. She even let me “pinch grab” her to show her down-folding fangs under the camer. She’s still with me to this day, but has devolved some of those infamous G. porteri mood swings lately. It’s funny, the less I interact with her, the more agro she gets when touched.

[@bensbugz5574]

Are there different types of urticating hairs? I noticed you said Type 2 and etc.

[@tarantulacollective]

There are actually 6 or 7 different types of urticating hair. Here is a scientific article on it if you're interested: www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1984-46702013000400006

[@bensbugz5574]

@@tarantulacollective Thanks man

[@angielovesowls]

I agree with you, its each persons choice. I really enjoyed your discussion about it you make the choice easy.

[@sjstu]

I'm not sure how your channel came up on my feed but I keep watching more and more of your content. I'm seriously considering picking up a T now! Wonderful animals and I really enjoy your presenting style.

[@jeffsummerhill]

Tarantula Police 😆

[@CaptainCeleste]

has there been any actual scientific evidence to them not liking to be handling? i would think it would like to be out of a box where they are 24/7 every now and then

[@jadeslocombe9317]

You're humanising it though. Tarantulas are very reactive to touch - they detect ground movements to indicate when food is approaching their space, they have web systems where they can locate a prey based on the movement, terrestrial Ts often demonstrate in captivity that they prefer 'terra firma' ie solid ground as opposed to loosely packed substrate that easily shifts even if they don't plan on burrowing. So a moving floor would be more likely to be more of an unsettling experience. Their sensitivity to touch also means they don't get anything beneficial from stroking - again you're just going to increase stress levels at minimum. In the wild many will remain within a small space and simply wait for prey to cross their path. If they miss, they simply wait again. So the 'same old' issue that you describe with an enclosure simply isn't an issue. I'm sure plenty of keepers can also vouch for the attitudes they get when they alter how their T has decorated their enclosure, or on rehousing. Many animals demonstrate enjoyment of or desire for contact by expressing behaviours during contact that they would when otherwise relaxed, or by behaving towards a person as they would a prized object. This isn't something typically seen in Ts, even while they have fairly limited behaviours one might count in this area. For example, T tantrums are not something I've heard of following withdrawal of human contact. Happy dances are not reported on contact. Typically relaxed behaviours also seem to not be reported, or at least not much if there are reports out there. So it would follow that with no signs that any particular number of individuals are particularly fond of handling (maybe there are the odd ones that seek it out, but again not something I've seen great mention of), and many reasons to believe that handling would be stressful, then the conclusion is fairly clear. Especially considering stress is a physiological response that we see clear signs of, and can result in death, vs assuming emotions and preferences that aren't even proven to exist in Ts.

[@helisomni5413]

Awesome video buddy, thanks a lot !

[@justinellis8864]

Good video fella. Totally agree with what you've said. 100%. T's don't enjoy being handled so always pick one that isn't going to run up your sweater! *grin*. I like the list order. Sounds just right. Except the G. porteri - think i got unlucky, was handleable for the first 6 months and then turned into a force of darkness, biting my pen and paint brush and never to be handled again. total badass! Mind you, i sold it back to the pet shop 30 years ago and they said it just wanted something to hide under as when they did it calmed down, was handleable again and sold to another customer. Ah well, may be i will get another one sometime! lol