Tarantulas are a natural part of the United States’ diverse wildlife. These arachnids, characterized by their hairy bodies and impressive size, inhabit various regions across the country. The United States is home to 29 unique native tarantula species, all belonging to the Aphonopelma genus, primarily thriving in specific environmental conditions that cater to their unique needs.
Geographical Distribution Across the United States
Tarantulas are widely distributed across the United States, with native populations found in over a fifth of the states. The majority of these spiders reside in the warmer, drier conditions of the American Southwest. This broad range includes states such as Texas, California, Nevada, Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona. Louisiana also hosts native tarantula populations, extending their presence eastward from the core southwestern territories.
While the Southwest is their primary stronghold, tarantulas are generally limited to areas south of Colorado. Though not native, some species like the Mexican Red Rump tarantula have established breeding populations in Florida, likely introduced through cargo or as released pets. This demonstrates their adaptability to new environments, even if their natural range is more restricted.
Preferred Habitats
Tarantulas in the United States primarily inhabit arid and semi-arid regions, favoring warm, dry air. They are largely terrestrial, meaning they spend most of their lives on the ground, often creating burrows. These underground dwellings provide shelter from predators and extreme temperature fluctuations, allowing the spiders to regulate their body temperature. They can dig their own burrows or utilize abandoned tunnels, such as those left by rodents or snakes.
Their preferred environments include savannas, grasslands, deserts, scrublands, and even old fields and chaparral. Tarantulas residing in desert soils exhibit a notable resistance to harsh weather conditions. While they can tolerate some humidity, their natural habitats are characterized by drier conditions. The soil type is important; they prefer looser, well-draining substrates like sandy loams that facilitate their burrowing activities.
Common Species and Their Ranges
All native tarantulas in the United States belong to the Aphonopelma genus, encompassing a variety of species adapted to different local conditions. One of the most widespread is the Texas Brown Tarantula (Aphonopelma hentzi), found across Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Colorado, and New Mexico. This species typically reaches a leg span of 4 to 5 inches and thrives in grasslands, scrublands, and desert areas.
Another prominent species is the Arizona Blond Tarantula (Aphonopelma chalcodes), common in the deserts of Arizona, New Mexico, and Southern California. These tarantulas can grow up to 6 inches, residing in desert soils. The California Ebony Tarantula (Aphonopelma eutylenum) is primarily found in California, extending into Nevada, Arizona, Oregon, and northwestern Mexico, with females reaching a leg span of up to 5 inches. Additionally, the Texas Tan Tarantula (Aphonopelma anax), native to southern Texas and northern Mexico, is one of the largest US species with a leg span of 5 to 6 inches, inhabiting semi-arid grasslands and shrub forests.