Tarantulas, with their imposing size and hairy appearance, often spark curiosity and apprehension. Many people wonder if these large spiders inhabit Washington State. This article explores their presence, characteristics, and what to do if you encounter one, helping to demystify these arachnids.
The Presence of Tarantulas in Washington
Tarantulas are found in Washington State, though their presence is localized and generally uncommon. The native species is the Western Tarantula, Aphonopelma iodius, primarily associated with arid and semi-arid environments. These tarantulas typically inhabit the drier, eastern regions of the state, which offer their preferred habitat conditions. They are rarely encountered in the more populated or wetter areas of western Washington. Reports of tarantula sightings are infrequent compared to states with larger populations.
Identifying Washington’s Native Tarantula
The Western Tarantula, Aphonopelma iodius, is a medium to large-sized spider. Females can have a leg span up to 5.5 inches, while males are slightly smaller. Their coloration varies, often appearing in shades of brown, tan, or grayish-brown, and their bodies are covered in fine, velvety hairs.
These tarantulas are ground-dwelling and primarily nocturnal, spending most of their time in burrows they excavate in the soil. They line these burrows with silk and may plug the entrance with silk and dirt to protect against heat and predators. Aphonopelma iodius is known for its docile temperament; they are not aggressive and typically flee or flick urticating hairs from their abdomen if threatened. Bites to humans are rare and usually result in mild, localized discomfort, comparable to a bee sting.
Common Misidentifications and Look-Alikes
Many large or hairy spiders in Washington are often mistaken for tarantulas. The Giant House Spider, Eratigena duellica, is a common example. These spiders are sizable, with males having a leg span up to 4 inches, making them the largest spiders by leg span in Washington. However, Giant House Spiders have a more elongated body shape and longer, spindlier legs compared to the robust tarantula. They also build distinctive funnel-shaped webs, unlike tarantulas which are burrow dwellers.
Wolf Spiders (Lycosidae family) are another group frequently confused with tarantulas due to their hairy appearance and active hunting behavior. Wolf Spiders are ground-dwelling hunters that do not spin webs to catch prey. They can be quite large, with some species reaching over an inch in body length, and are typically black, gray, or brown with patterns.
A key distinguishing feature is their eye arrangement: Wolf Spiders have two prominent large eyes in the center of their face, above a row of four smaller eyes. While hairy, they lack the extreme fuzziness and bulk of a tarantula. Other large arachnids like Trapdoor Spiders can also be confused with tarantulas, but they are generally smaller and have different body proportions.
Encountering a Tarantula: What to Do
If you encounter a tarantula in Washington State, remain calm. These spiders are not dangerous to humans; their venom is mild, and they are more likely to retreat than to bite. Tarantulas typically only bite if severely provoked or handled roughly.
The best course of action is to observe the tarantula from a distance and avoid direct contact. If a tarantula wanders into your home, which is rare, you can gently encourage it outside. Place a cup or container over the spider, then slide a piece of cardboard underneath to trap it. The tarantula can then be safely carried outdoors and released in a sheltered, natural area away from human activity. There is no need to harm the spider, as they are a harmless part of the local wildlife.