Tarantulas live in Missouri, with the state being home to its own native species. The Aphonopelma hentzi, commonly known as the Texas brown tarantula, Oklahoma brown tarantula, or Missouri tarantula, is the sole tarantula species found naturally within the state’s borders. This large arachnid resides in Missouri’s diverse ecosystems.
The Missouri Tarantula: Species and Appearance
The Aphonopelma hentzi is Missouri’s largest spider, characterized by its stocky, hairy appearance. Its body and legs are a uniform dark chocolate brown, though shades can vary, sometimes appearing with reddish hairs on the carapace or muted bronze tones. Coarse, reddish-brown hairs cover their bodies and legs. Females are larger, averaging about two inches in body length, while males are slightly smaller at around 1.5 inches. The overall leg span of an adult can exceed four inches, with some reaching up to five inches.
Where and When to Find Them
Missouri’s tarantulas are found in the southern and western parts of the state, particularly below the Missouri River. These terrestrial spiders prefer habitats such as prairies, grasslands, and rocky glades, which provide warmth, humidity, and burrowing opportunities. They spend their days in silk-lined burrows, often utilizing abandoned tunnels of rodents or reptiles, or other natural cavities.
Tarantulas are nocturnal creatures, pursuing insects like crickets at night. The most common time to encounter these spiders is during late summer and fall, from late July through October. This period marks their mating season when mature male tarantulas leave their burrows and actively search for females, making them more visible above ground and sometimes seen crossing roads.
Encountering a Missouri Tarantula: Behavior and Safety
Missouri tarantulas are known for their docile temperament and are not aggressive towards humans unless provoked. Their primary defense mechanism involves kicking urticating hairs from their abdomen. These small, coarse, brown or black bristles irritate predators and can cause itching or irritation if they contact skin or mucous membranes.
While tarantulas possess fangs and venom to subdue prey, bites to humans are rare and not considered medically significant. The sensation of a bite is often compared to a bee sting, causing localized pain but not posing a serious health threat unless an allergic reaction occurs. If you encounter a Missouri tarantula, observe it from a distance. Do not attempt to handle them. If a tarantula is in an undesirable location, it can be gently encouraged to move along with a long stick or broom.