Burgundy Goliath Birdeater

Looks how to spot one

exoskeleton with urticating setae

A heavy-bodied spider with a carapace up to 40 mm long and a leg span that can reach 30 cm. The colour ranges from rusty brown to rich burgundy-brown, with reddish bristles on the legs and abdomen and pale lines on the leg joints. The abdomen carries a dense patch of barbed, detachable urticating hairs. The chelicerae are massive and the fangs exceed a centimetre.31

Personality what they are like

Despite its intimidating size, the Burgundy Goliath Birdeater is generally docile and skittish. It prefers to retreat or flick urticating hairs rather than bite, but it can stridulate (hiss), rear up, and strike with its long fangs if provoked. It is not recommended for handling.32

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Nocturnal and crepuscular. It spends most of its time in its burrow, often sitting at the entrance waiting for prey. It does not need exercise but requires a spacious enclosure with deep substrate for burrowing.32

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Minimal grooming. The spider keeps itself clean. Keepers must avoid handling due to urticating hairs and fangs. Use catch cups and barriers for maintenance. Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours.45

Home where they are happiest

Enclosure should be wider than it is tall, with 4-6 inches of moisture-retaining substrate for burrowing. Provide a hide, a water dish, and good ventilation. Temperature 78-82°F, humidity 70-80%. Secure the enclosure well as this is a large, strong spider.24

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Feed live insects such as crickets, roaches, grasshoppers, and mealworms. Adults can eat 10-15 adult crickets or 3 adult dubia roaches weekly. Occasionally offer pinkie mice or house geckos. Spiderlings eat smaller insects 2-3 times per week.25

Company who they like around

Solitary. Must be housed alone. It is not a social animal and does not require companionship.1

The story where it all began

The Burgundy Goliath Birdeater was scientifically described in 2010 from specimens collected in Guyana. It quickly became popular in the pet trade as a more forgiving and easier-to-breed alternative to its close relative, the Goliath Birdeater (Theraphosa blondi). Its large size and relatively hardy nature have made it a sought-after display invertebrate.67