Trapdoor Spider

Looks how to spot one

Exoskeleton

These spiders have a shiny, polished-looking carapace and legs, while the abdomen is dull and slightly fuzzy. They are usually black to very dark brown, sometimes with a white heart-shaped patch on the top of the abdomen. They are close relatives of tarantulas but are smaller and less hairy.412

Personality what they are like

Ummidia are generally not aggressive and will often play dead if disturbed from their burrows. They are shy and secretive, spending most of their lives underground. They may deliver painful bites if provoked or mishandled, so handling should be minimised.23

Daily activity how busy a day looks

These spiders are not active pets; they spend nearly all their time hidden in their burrows. They do not need exercise or enrichment in the usual sense, but providing naturalistic décor such as leaf litter encourages natural behaviours.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Care is minimal but specific: maintain moderate humidity (60-80%) and temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C). Regularly check substrate moisture and cleanliness, and replace substrate if mould develops. Avoid handling; observe through the enclosure.3

Home where they are happiest

Use a tall terrarium with at least 6-8 inches of deep substrate (a mix of soil and sand) to allow burrow construction. Provide leaf litter on top. Maintain humidity and temperature as noted. These spiders are habitat specialists and may become stressed without proper conditions.3

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Feed live insects such as crickets or roaches every one to two weeks. They have slow metabolisms and eat infrequently. Avoid overfeeding.3

Company who they like around

Trapdoor spiders are solitary and do not need company. They are not suitable for beginners or those wanting interaction. They are not typically dangerous, but some species can deliver painful bites, so handle minimally or not at all.3

The story where it all began

Ummidia trapdoor spiders have been known to science since 1875 when Thorell first described the genus. They are not widely kept as pets compared to tarantulas, and they are less available in the exotic pet trade. Their secretive nature and specialised habitat needs make them a challenge for dedicated enthusiasts rather than casual owners.43