Tarantulas, often associated with exotic lands, are a surprising resident across the United States. Many are unaware these large, hairy spiders are a natural component of American ecosystems. Their presence reveals a diverse arachnid population thriving within the country. This article explores where these creatures live, common species, their behavior, and safe interaction.
Where US Tarantulas Reside
Tarantulas are primarily found in the warmer, drier regions of the American Southwest, extending into parts of the central and southeastern United States. States such as Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, California, Nevada, Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Missouri, and Utah host native populations. These arachnids prefer habitats with arid to semi-arid climates, characterized by grasslands, scrublands, and desert environments. The terrain in these areas provides the necessary conditions for their burrowing lifestyle, offering shelter from extreme temperatures and predators.
While the Southwest is their stronghold, the Mexican Red Rump tarantula (Tliltocatl vagans), an introduced species, has established populations in parts of Florida. This species likely arrived as a stowaway in cargo or was released by pet owners, adapting to Florida’s more humid climate. Regardless of location, tarantulas are predominantly terrestrial, creating silk-lined burrows in the soil or utilizing abandoned rodent dens for their homes.
Common US Tarantula Species
Several tarantula species are commonly encountered across the US, each with distinct features. The Texas brown tarantula (Aphonopelma hentzi) is one of the most widespread, inhabiting Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Kansas. This species typically reaches a leg span of up to 5 inches, displaying a dark brown coloration, though shades can vary. They are known for their generally docile temperament.
The Arizona blonde tarantula (Aphonopelma chalcodes) is prevalent in Arizona, New Mexico, and Southern California. Females of this species can grow up to 6 inches in leg span and are characterized by a “blonde” or tan carapace that contrasts with their darker legs and abdomen. The Texas tan tarantula (Aphonopelma anax) is among the largest found in the United States, with some females reaching a 6-inch leg span. This species, found in southeastern Texas and northern Mexico, exhibits tan to dark brown coloration.
The Rio Grande gold tarantula (Aphonopelma moderatum), native to the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, is identifiable by its orange to tan carapace and darker legs, or a dark brown to black body with orange hairs in males. These species are part of the Aphonopelma genus, known for their burrowing habits and relatively calm dispositions.
Understanding Tarantula Behavior and Safety
US tarantulas are nocturnal predators, adapted to their environment. They do not construct large webs for prey, instead lining burrows with silk to ambush insects and small arthropods. Male tarantulas become more active during late summer and fall, venturing from their burrows in search of mates. This period often leads to increased sightings of these spiders as males wander across open ground.
Despite their intimidating appearance, tarantulas are generally docile and prefer to avoid confrontation. Their primary defense mechanisms include raising their front legs to display their fangs as a warning. Many species also possess urticating hairs on their abdomen, which they can kick off towards a threat. These barbed hairs can cause irritation, itching, and redness if they contact skin or mucous membranes.
A tarantula bite, while painful, is generally not dangerous to humans, often compared to a bee sting. Symptoms typically include mild pain, redness, and swelling at the bite site. Serious allergic reactions are rare but can occur in sensitive individuals. If you encounter a tarantula, remain calm and give it space to move away. Should one enter a home, gently guide it into a container and release it outdoors in a safe, undisturbed location.