Tarantulas in St John US Virgin Islands
The Cyrtopholis bartholomei tarantula is common in St. John. These tarantulas grow up to five inches in diameter and live within burrows. Females typically remain inside the burrow, while males move about freely in search of potential mates.
The Avicularia versicolor, or Antilles pink toe tarantula, may also be found on neighboring islands, such as Martinique. At the time of it's hatching, this species exhibits blue abdominal markings that become pink as specimens molt into maturity.
It is advised that these wild arachnids be approached slowly and that humans not handle them. When threatened, tarantulas will bite. Due to their size, tarantula bites can be painful and may bleed. Some individuals may also experience allergic reactions to tarantula venom.