Tarantula Behavior
Unlike most spiders, tarantulas do not spin webs. However, they are capable of producing silk, which they use to line their burrows and protect their eggs. Tarantulas hunt for food by pursuit or ambush, grasping their prey with strong fangs. After stabilizing their prey, tarantulas inject paralyzing venom into the victim prior to consuming it.
Tarantulas also employ particular defense tactics when confronted with natural enemies. The venom of the tarantula can paralyze small attackers, although it rarely causes severe symptoms in humans. Tarantulas also employ the use of urticating hairs along their bodies. These hairs cause skin and eye irritation. Humans that handle tarantulas often experience hives and extreme itchiness. If they are threatened, some tarantulas use their legs to launch these hairs at the threat.
These large arachnids prefer to dwell in secluded, undisturbed areas. They create burrows for themselves, which they sometimes line with silk. Tarantulas are also known to stuff these burrows full of found detritus.
Scientific Name for Tarantulas
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