Brachypelma smithi

Introduction

B. smithi is most commonly known as the Mexican Redknee tarantula and is found throughout the semi-desert scrublands of Central America and Mexico. They have been listed on the Cites II endangered species list and restrictions are now in place to prevent the demise of wild specimens, as such, only captive bred specimens are to be kept as pets. Mexican Redknee's are amongst the most docile tarantulas and although they do have the ability to fire urticating hairs, they only do this very rarely when severely threatened. Because of it's temperament, this spider makes an excellent beginner's pet.

A suitable enclosure for a Mexican Redknee

Description

This species usually has a light-brown and black colouration, with a black abdomen and legs with the characteristic patches of red on it's knees. It is a slow-growing spider that can grow to upto 16.5 cm (6.5 inches) in size and has been known to survive for as long as 25 years in captivity.

Habitat

Enclosure

The Mexican Redknee lives in deep burrows along the Western coast of Mexico, and this habitat should be replicated as best as possible within your enclosure. It is recommended that you use a vivarium of atleast 10 gallons in size and provide an artificial shelter like a hollow log or a cave for use in aquariums. The spider will usually adopt this shelter and begin to dig it's burrow underneath.

Substrate

You should layer the bottom of the enclosure with approximately 10 cm (4 inches) of substrate comprised of a 50/50 mixture of sand and peat moss. The substrate should be kept damp but not so much so that bacteria and molds begin to grow.

Temperature

This species requires a temperature range of between 24-32°C (75-90°F). A temperature gradient is important to allow the tarantula to regulate their body temperature as needed. The easiest way to provide the gradient is by using a heating mat designed for use under reptile tanks. This should be placed under no more than about 1/3 of the tank, so your pet can move from warmer to cooler temperatures if desired. Always verify that appropriate temperatures are being provided by using accurate thermometers in a few locations within the enclosure. A heat lamp with a 60-watt bulb over an area just outside the entrance to the burrow will provide a basking spot for your tarantula.

Humidity

Humidity should be maintained at between 55-65% by providing a large, shallow water bowl and by misting the enclosure regularly. To successfully maintain the desired humidity conditions for your tarantula you are going to need a hygrometer. A hygrometer is a device used to measure relative humidity within the enclosure.

Handling your Mexican Redknee

Feeding

Spiderlings will eat pinhead crickets, and other small insects. Adults eat crickets, other large insects, small lizards, pinkie mice, and an occasional fuzzy mouse every few months.

Water

Providing a large, shallow water dish will ensure your spider has all the water it needs aswell as help to miantain the relative humidity within the habitat.

Handling

As previously explained this is one of the calmest species of tarantula, however, handling is not recommended due to their urticating hairs and sometimes skittish temperament. If you do feel the need to handle your pet then do so by slowly cupping the spider and gently raising it out of the enclosure, then allow it casually explore your hands, avoid making any rapid movements, and keep it relatively close to the ground as their abdomens are fragile. If you are going to handle a tarantula it is important you be confident.