Curly Haired Tarantula – a Furry Friend

The Curly Haired Tarantula, scientifically known as Brachypelma Albopilosum (or B. Albo for short), is possibly the best species for newcomers to the hobby. Other common names for this species are the Wooly Tarantula, the Honduran Curly Hair and the Costa Rican Curly Hair. Scruffy and furry in appearance, this species is gentle, hardy, inexpensive and easy to find – ticking all the boxes for newbies to the hobby.

Origins and Natural Habitat

The Curly Haired Tarantula (B. Albopilosum) originates from the tropical rainforests of Central America – more specifically northern Honduras, Costa Rica and Nicaragua. This new world species are ground-dwellers, living under rocks, bark, branches and in burrows underground.

Although most brachypelma genera are desert-dwelling, it is vital to remember that the B. Albopilosum hails from tropical rainforests where ground conditions are different. Temperatures in these regions range from 64 deg F to 81 deg F with an average humidity of 70% to 80% depending on location.

Vegetation is dense in the rainforest with lots of places to hide and seek refuge. When threatened or skittish, this species will run and hide rather than confront the potential danger.

Growth and Colouration

B. Albopilosum is said to be a slow to medium grower compared to other species. Fully grown, this species can measure up to 5 or 6 inches with females living up to 10 years and males living up to 4 years in captivity. This species will perform 15 molts or more to reach adult maturity.

The species is not loved or known for its colour variation. The primary colour of this tarantula is dark brown/black (depending on the light). What makes this species stand out are the long hairs all over its body and legs. In adulthood, the hair can be so long that it curls, hence the common name of Curly Haired Tarantula. The curly hair is a golden colour, combining with the dark brown body to give an overall tone of bronze or light brown. Many hobbyists like this species due to its “cuteness” and because it looks “cuddly” and “all fuzzy”.

Do they make good pets though?

If you’re considering this species as a pet, then you’re in luck. The Curly Haired Tarantula is perfect whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro. This species is gentle in nature, has a long life expectancy, is resilient, readily available and inexpensive to purchase.

If this is your first tarantula, it is recommended to buy a relatively young adult female. Spiderlings and juveniles are skittish and will spend most of the time hiding or scrambling frantically to get out of view. Young and mature adults are much less nervous, more relaxed and will spend more time in view and out in the open. As a newbie, you might want to avoid the frustrations of buying a pet that you will rarely see. If you enjoy a challenge and would like to raise your own from a sling? Then, of course, the choice is yours.

Like most new world tarantulae, B. Albopilosum has type III urticating setae and can flick them when threatened. This species also possess mildly venomous fangs. The Curly Haired Tarantula is not likely to flick hair or bite. However, precaution must be taken as each specimen has its own personality, and there’s always a chance that either might happen.

This species does not like handling and care should be taken that it doesn’t leap to the ground from a height as potential injury or death is likely to occur. Handling is always recommended against, but there are times when it can’t be avoided. If handling is necessary, it is recommended to wear gloves and thoroughly wash your hands afterwards.

Enclosure

This species prefers a large enclosure with lots of floor space. Aim for x3 leg span in width. Lots of ventilation holes should be provided, allowing for plenty of air movement. This species will be perfectly happy at room temperature, no need for heaters, lamps etc. And like most species, only one spider per enclosure.

The substrate should be kept between dry and moist, adding a water bowl in one corner of the enclosure to provide hydration and to maintain a humidity of approximately 65% to 70%. The substrate should be at least 4 inches in depth for this species.

This species likes to move substrate around and will create its own burrow – so expect your new friend to make itself at home and rearrange its living quarters.

Cork bark and fake plants are always a welcome addition. They provide hiding spots should the spider feel stressed or about to molt. This species also isn’t a heavy webber or climber, so the enclosure will generally remain web free.

Feeding time

Crickets, roaches and mealworm are recommended. Pre-kill prey for spiderlings and place them on their web. Juveniles and adults can handle live food and will impressively hunt them down. Feed a couple of insects a week to keep your tarantula healthy. It’s essential to remove any remains of uneaten food from the enclosure within 24 hours to prevent mould and mites from developing.

Breeding Time

Breeding the B. Albopilosum is similar to any other tarantula. The male should be introduced to the female enclosure, and at a distance. Allow the pair to grow accustomed to each other and begin to perform their ritual. The couple will perform a drumming pattern to declare their interest and will approach each other to start. The process is a lengthy one and must be supervised throughout. Pay close attention to when the act is completed as the female may attack and kill the much smaller male afterwards. When finished, the male will run away to escape the female and protect itself from attack. The time from successful mating to hatching can be as little as 2 months. It’s essential to keep a close eye on the female during this period. Ensure she is well fed and try not to disrupt her enclosure.

In Conclusion – the Key Points

The Curly Haired Tarantula is recommended for all hobbyists. What this species lacks in colour and vibrancy, it makes up for in cuteness. This is not an excuse or a recommendation to bring a cuddly pet home to young kids. This species is adaptable to fluctuating temperatures and humidity. A gentle, calm and relaxed nature combined with an impressive hunting and feeding response, makes the B. Albopilosum a welcome addition to many collections.