Brazilian Giant Blonde Tarantula

Looks how to spot one

hair

The whole body and legs are covered in very long, pale golden-brown to reddish-brown hairs, giving it a fluffy, heavy-bodied appearance. It is one of the hairiest tarantulas from Brazil.1

Personality what they are like

This tarantula can be a bit of a gamble. Some individuals are very calm and docile, almost like a pet rock, while others are skittish and nervous. They are not typically aggressive but may flick urticating hairs or show a threat pose if annoyed. They are known to have 'moods', spending time rearranging their enclosure or burrowing, then resting for long periods.43

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Low activity needs. Provide a large, low enclosure with deep substrate for burrowing and a stable hide. They are not climbers and rarely need interaction.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Minimal grooming. Keep the enclosure clean and maintain humidity. They do not need handling; in fact, handling is not recommended as they can be defensive.5

Home where they are happiest

A terrestrial enclosure that is longer and wider than it is tall, with at least 4-6 inches of substrate (coco fibre, peat moss, vermiculite) for burrowing. Temperature 23-29°C, humidity 65-80%. Provide a water dish and good ventilation. Keep alone.524

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Feed appropriately sized insects such as crickets, roaches, locusts, and mealworms. Adults can eat 2-3 large crickets or 2 dubia roaches per week. Spiderlings need flightless fruit flies or pinhead crickets. They are excellent eaters and rarely refuse food.42

Company who they like around

This species must be kept alone. It is a solitary, territorial spider that does not tolerate company.2

The story where it all began

Originally described as Eurypelma tripepii by Edouard Dresco in 1984, the species went through several name changes before being placed in the genus Nhandu. It is a New World tarantula native to Brazil, known for its urticating hairs rather than potent venom. It has become a popular pet in the tarantula hobby due to its impressive size, hardiness, and bold personality, though it is not recommended for complete beginners because of its sometimes skittish nature.64