Tarantulas, large and often hairy spiders, frequently evoke a mix of fascination and apprehension. Despite their imposing appearance, many misconceptions surround these creatures, particularly regarding their defensive behaviors. The common question is whether tarantulas bite and if they are dangerous. Understanding their natural responses can help clarify these concerns, revealing that while they possess defense mechanisms, serious incidents with humans are uncommon.
Understanding Tarantula Bites
Tarantulas possess fangs and venom, and they can bite. However, a bite is typically a last resort, used only when the spider feels threatened or provoked. They prefer to retreat from danger, often displaying a threat pose by rearing up on their hind legs as a warning. Their venom primarily paralyzes prey for consumption, not as a potent weapon against humans. For most people, a tarantula bite’s effects are mild, often compared to a bee sting.
Many species, particularly those from North America, have venom with low toxicity to humans. Old World tarantulas (Africa, Asia, Europe) have more potent venom, while New World species (the Americas) often possess an additional defense mechanism in the form of urticating hairs. Tarantulas may also deliver a “dry bite,” puncturing the skin without injecting venom, conserving their valuable venom for hunting.
Effects of a Tarantula Bite
A tarantula bite typically causes localized pain at the bite site, similar to a bee or wasp sting. The affected area may develop redness, warmth, swelling, and itching. These local reactions usually subside within hours to a week.
Systemic reactions, though rare, can include nausea, muscle cramps, headache, or fatigue. Severe allergic responses are possible in sensitive individuals, resembling anaphylactic reactions to other insect stings. Symptoms include breathing difficulty, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, or swelling of the lips and throat. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, spread, or if an allergic reaction is suspected.
Urticating Hairs and Their Impact
Many New World tarantulas use urticating hairs as a primary defense. These tiny, barbed bristles are located primarily on the spider’s abdomen. When threatened, a tarantula flicks these hairs off its body using its hind legs, creating a cloud of irritants. Hairs can also be rubbed onto surfaces like burrows or egg sacs as a deterrent.
Contact with urticating hairs can cause significant irritation. This often causes intense itching, a rash, or skin irritation that can persist for days or weeks. If hairs embed in sensitive areas like the eyes, nose, or mouth, reactions can be more severe, leading to inflammation, pain, or temporary vision impairment. Inhaling hairs can also cause respiratory irritation. Irritation varies among tarantula species due to hair types.
Prevention and What to Do
Minimizing the risk of a tarantula bite or urticating hair contact involves caution and respecting the spider’s defensive nature. Avoid direct handling of wild tarantulas. If encountering a tarantula, allow it space and do not provoke it. When handling captive New World tarantulas, wear gloves and eye protection to prevent exposure.
If a tarantula bite occurs, wash the area with soap and water. Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce pain and swelling. Elevating the affected limb can also reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers can ease discomfort.
For contact with urticating hairs, rinse the affected skin with cold water immediately to remove hairs. Apply a cool compress and antihistamine creams or oral antihistamines to manage itching and rash. Avoid rubbing the area, which can further embed the hairs. Seek medical attention if irritation is severe, persistent, or if hairs enter the eyes, nose, or mouth.