What's a good starter tarantula?

Question

I'm thinking about getting one. What are your experiences when purchasing a spider?

Answer 1

Anything belonging to the Aphonopelma, Grammostola, Avicularia, or Brachypelma genera makes decent beginner tarantulas.  The species  most commonly called the best beginner tarantula is the Chilean Rose (Grammostola rosea).  Ultimately though, if you understand the tarantula your getting and do the proper research, any species would be adequate for a beginner.

When picking out a tarantula, make sure the supplier can give a genuine scientific name, and check to see that they have it in an adequate habitat.  Make sure the tarantula doesn't look droopy or have it's legs curled underneath it, this means it is sick and probably will die soon.  Also ask if it is male or female, males will live 2-5 years while females will live 15-25 if well kept.  Another good thing to ask if it is Wild Caught or Captive Bred.  The difference is more of personal preference, but it is also way to determine if the guy is sincere and let him know you mean business.

I recommend getting "The Tarantula Keeper's Guide" by Stan and Marguerite Schultz and read through it. It will tell you everything to know about tarantula keeping, plus the science of tarantulas like anatomy and natural history.  If you want something cheaper and less in-depth, but still very good get "Tarantulas and Other Arachnids" by Samuel d. Marshall.  I have both books and they are priceless to the tarantula keeper.

Answer 2

i would start of with a the Common Pink toe tarantula

my friend has one and shes says its pretty easy to care for

Answer 3

I would start with a Chilean rose tarantula as it is cheap,widely available and generally a very dosile spider. rose tarantulas live for anything upta 30 years for females(less for males) and are easily handled,they're also hardy spiders and have few requirements regarding temp. and humidity. they come in different colour morphs(copper,grey) and are easily housed(small terrarium with secure lid). Always provide a shallow dish with fresh water.

Enjoy your fasinating new pet