Tarantulas are arachnids that inhabit various regions across the globe, including a significant presence in the United States. These hairy spiders are generally reclusive creatures. Their presence in the US is largely concentrated in specific areas, shaped by environmental factors that suit their survival.
States Where Tarantulas Reside
Tarantulas are primarily found in the warmer, drier climates of the American Southwest, though their range extends to several other states. Over a fifth of US states host native tarantula populations. You can expect to encounter them in states such as Texas, California, Nevada, Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah. While most US tarantulas are native, some non-native species, like the Mexican red rump, have established populations in Florida, likely introduced through human activity.
Habitat Preferences
Tarantulas prefer habitats with specific environmental conditions, which explains their distribution. They thrive in arid and semi-arid regions, grasslands, and deserts, where temperatures are warm and humidity is moderate. Many species are burrowing spiders, digging homes in the ground to escape extreme temperatures and predators.
Their burrows, often lined with silk, provide a stable microclimate, offering refuge from intense heat during the day and cooler temperatures at night. Loose soil is preferred for digging these retreats. Some tarantulas also utilize existing crevices, rocks, or abandoned burrows.
Common Tarantula Species in the US
The United States is home to several distinct tarantula species, many belonging to the genus Aphonopelma. One of the most widespread is the Texas brown tarantula (Aphonopelma hentzi), which can grow to about 5-6 inches in leg span and is characterized by its uniform brown coloration.
Another notable species is the Arizona blond tarantula (Aphonopelma chalcodes), typically found in desert environments. Females of this species are usually a solid tan or blonde, while males might exhibit darker legs and a copper-colored cephalothorax. The California ebony tarantula (Aphonopelma eutylenum), found in southern California, is another commonly recognized species, measuring 4-5 inches.
Understanding Tarantula Behavior
Tarantulas are primarily nocturnal hunters, most active during the night. They are ambush predators, often waiting near their burrows or hiding spots to seize unsuspecting prey. Their diet typically consists of insects and other small arthropods, though larger species may occasionally prey on small lizards or frogs.
When hunting, tarantulas use their fangs to inject venom, which paralyzes their prey, followed by digestive enzymes that liquefy the meal for consumption. While all tarantulas possess venom, the effects on humans from North American species are generally mild, often comparable to a bee sting, causing localized pain, swelling, and itching. Many New World tarantulas also possess urticating hairs on their abdomen, which they can flick as a defensive mechanism, causing skin irritation or, if they enter the eyes, more significant discomfort. These spiders are generally shy and non-aggressive, preferring to retreat from human encounters.