Do Goliath Birdeater Spiders Make Good Pets?

The Goliath birdeater spider (Theraphosa blondi) is renowned for being one of the largest spiders in the world. With a leg span that can reach up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) and a body length of nearly 5 inches (13 centimeters), this impressive arachnid captures the fascination of many exotic pet enthusiasts. However, despite their awe-inspiring size and appearance, the question remains: do Goliath birdeater spiders make good pets? In this article, we’ll explore various aspects of owning these giant tarantulas — from their care requirements to temperament and potential risks — helping you determine if they are suitable for your home.

Introduction to the Goliath Birdeater Spider

Native to the rainforests of northern South America, primarily in countries such as Brazil, Venezuela, Guyana, and Suriname, the Goliath birdeater occupies a niche within tropical ecosystems. Its name “birdeater” is somewhat misleading since birds are not a common part of its diet; it primarily feeds on insects, amphibians, small rodents, and other invertebrates.

This species belongs to the tarantula family Theraphosidae. Unlike many other tarantulas that are arboreal (tree-dwelling), Goliath birdeaters are terrestrial and spend much of their time in burrows.

Appearance and Behavior

The Goliath birdeater has a robust and hairy body covered with reddish-brown to dark brown hairs. It has strong fangs capable of delivering a venomous bite, although the venom is typically not dangerous to humans beyond mild pain and swelling.

In terms of behavior, Goliath birdeaters are generally docile compared to other large spiders but can become defensive when threatened. They do not usually attack unless provoked. When alarmed, they may produce a hissing sound by rubbing their legs together—a phenomenon known as stridulation—and kick urticating hairs from their abdomen as a defense mechanism. These hairs can cause skin irritation or more severe reactions if they come into contact with sensitive areas such as the eyes.

Considerations for Keeping a Goliath Birdeater as a Pet

Size and Space Requirements

One of the primary considerations before acquiring a Goliath birdeater is its size. Given its enormous dimensions, a proper enclosure must be sizable enough to accommodate its full stretch comfortably. At minimum, an enclosure measuring around 18 inches long by 12 inches wide by 12 inches tall is recommended.

The enclosure should also allow room for substrate depth — at least 4–6 inches — since these spiders are burrowers and like to dig. A substrate of coconut fiber, peat moss, or soil that retains humidity but drains well is ideal.

Environmental Needs

Goliath birdeaters demand specific environmental conditions to thrive:

Temperature: They require warm temperatures between 75°F and 85°F (24°C – 29°C).
Humidity: High humidity levels ranging from 75% to 85% are essential to prevent dehydration and promote healthy molting.

Lighting: As nocturnal creatures, they do not require bright lighting. Low light or indirect lighting mimics their natural habitat better.

Maintaining these conditions year-round involves investing in heating elements such as heat mats or lamps and monitoring humidity frequently with hygrometers.

Feeding

Unlike many common pet spiders that eat small insects occasionally, the Goliath birdeater has a voracious appetite reflective of its size. Its diet in captivity usually includes crickets, roaches, mealworms, and occasionally pinky mice or small frogs.

Feeding should be done once or twice per week with prey items appropriately sized (generally no larger than the spider’s abdomen). Overfeeding can lead to obesity or health problems, while underfeeding can weaken the spider.

Handling and Temperament

While some tarantulas tolerate gentle handling, the Goliath birdeater is not recommended for frequent handling due to several factors:

Defensive Nature: Though often docile when undisturbed, this spider can be defensive if it feels threatened.
Size and Strength: Its large size means it could deliver a painful bite if mishandled.
Urticating Hairs: Kicking off irritating hairs poses a risk to both the handler’s skin and eyes.

Therefore, most experienced keepers advise minimal handling and suggest interacting with these spiders only when necessary for enclosure maintenance or health checks.

Lifespan

Goliath birdeaters have relatively long lifespans for arachnids:

Females can live up to 15–25 years.

Males generally live shorter lives, around 3–6 years after reaching maturity.

Prospective owners should be prepared for a long-term commitment when choosing this species as a pet.

Health Risks and Safety Concerns

While the venom of Theraphosa blondi is not life-threatening to humans, bites can cause localized pain similar to a bee sting. The bigger concern lies in their urticating hairs that can cause significant irritation or allergic reactions.

Potential owners should take precautions:

Avoid touching the abdomen where urticating hairs are released.

Use gloves when cleaning or handling the enclosure.
Wash hands thoroughly after contact.
Keep spiders away from children and pets who may unknowingly provoke them.

Cost and Availability

Goliath birdeaters are available through exotic pet dealers but tend to be more expensive than smaller tarantulas due to their size and care needs. Prices vary depending on age, size, and legality in your region.

It’s crucial to ensure any purchase is legal under local wildlife regulations because some countries restrict importation or ownership of exotic arachnids.

Pros of Keeping a Goliath Birdeater as a Pet

Impressive Size: They are one of the largest tarantulas on earth; owning one is often considered prestigious among arachnid enthusiasts.
Low Noise: Unlike mammals or birds, these spiders are silent pets.

Low Maintenance: Beyond temperature/humidity requirements and feeding schedules of once or twice weekly, they don’t require daily interaction.
Longevity: Their long lifespan allows you to develop an extended bond (though not through handling).
Educational Value: They offer insight into arachnid biology and behavior for those interested in exotic animals.

Cons of Keeping a Goliath Birdeater as a Pet

Not Suitable for Beginners: Their specialized care needs mean inexperienced keepers may struggle.
Handling Risks: Potential for painful bites and irritation from urticating hairs makes them risky pets for people wanting tactile interaction.
Space Requirements: Their large size demands bigger enclosures which take up space in your home.

Environmental Needs: Maintaining high humidity and temperature requires equipment and diligence.
Ethical Considerations: Wild-caught specimens may impact natural populations; captive breeding programs are preferred but less common.

Alternatives for Arachnid Enthusiasts

If you desire an exotic spider pet but find the Goliath birdeater overwhelming or impractical, there are several alternatives:

Smaller tarantulas like Chilean rose hair (Grammostola rosea) or Mexican red-knee (Brachypelma smithi) that require less space.
Species with calmer temperaments better suited for gentle handling.

Other arthropods like scorpions which have simpler care needs.

These options still provide fascinating pet experiences without some challenges posed by giant terrestrial tarantulas.

Final Verdict: Are Goliath Birdeater Spiders Good Pets?

The answer depends largely on your experience level with exotic pets, dedication to providing proper care conditions, space availability, and your tolerance for minimal handling interactions.

For seasoned arachnologists or dedicated hobbyists who appreciate large spiders’ biology without expecting hands-on engagement, Goliath birdeaters can be rewarding animals that showcase nature’s astonishing diversity.

However, for novices seeking interactive pets or those unwilling to maintain strict environmental controls, these giants may present too many challenges. Their defensive behaviors combined with large size make them less appropriate as beginner pets compared to smaller tarantula species.

If you decide you want one of these incredible creatures in your collection:

Research thoroughly about their biology and care requirements.
Source your spider ethically from reputable breeders.

Prepare an ideal enclosure setup before bringing it home.
Handle with respect for its defensive capabilities.

In summary—Goliath birdeater spiders do make fascinating pets but only under ideal circumstances suited for experienced keepers prepared for their unique needs.

References & Further Reading:

“Tarantula Care Guide” – Exotic Pet Books
“Living with Tarantulas” – Arachnology Journals

Online forums & communities such as Arachnoboards
Captive breeding programs’ websites