How to Keep a Pet Spider

As per the pet spiders spiders are arachnids, and are found worldwide. A chief characteristic of a spider is the production of silk, spun at the rear of the body. Silk is used to wrap eggs in cocoons, to wrap prey, to build webs, tunnels and to help young spiders migrate in the wind.

Spiders have been the subject of many myths and fears, but they are on the most part harmless and benefit man by controlling insect populations.

The large tropical bird-eating spider or tarantula is the most common non-web making spider that is kept as a pet. A few other spider species are the wolf spider, jumping spider, orb-weavers and house spiders though are much smaller than the average pet spider the tarantula and are more likely to escape from a cage.

Smaller spiders, including web makers can be caught and kept for a few days in plastic or glass jars with perforated lids. Supply these temporary pet spiders live insects, sticks to attach webs to and plant leaves covered in moisture. Some spiders may be tamed by offering them meal-worms. Over time the more frequent handling of your pet spider the tamer they will become.

The classic spider's web is built by the orb-weavers, and is often found in gardens. Each strand of spider silk is less than 0.003 mm in diameter: the outer spiral is covered with sticky gum. Vibrations enable the spider to locate its prey, which it kills by biting with venomous fangs.

Pet spiders can be kept in a frequently cleaned glass aquarium tank. The tank should have a locking screen top that can accommodate a reflecting light fixture heat source. The floor covering should be natural gravel and a rock shelter should be provided. To accommodate the size of the pet spider, use rocks of various sizes and arrange them to form a large enough hiding space

Spiders don't drink directly they brush their mouth parts with moisture and require a water dish with a natural sponge for drinking. Feed your pet spider live insects especially locusts and crickets. Pet spiders will also benefit from eating pinkies (hairless newborn mice) which should only be given directly after molting for added vitamins.

*Please note: Live food should be available to your pet spider at all times. Remove any dead insects or pinkies that have not been eaten.

Spiders molt (shed their skin) regularly and during this time period may change color and remain inactive. When you pet spider molts you will notice their coloring appears to be brighter and they will immerge a tiny bit larger.

Spiders are fascinating pets and are extremely enjoyable to observe. When handling a pet spider be aware they are wild and can never completely be trusted when picking them up steer clear of the large fangs located at the front of the head. Though most spider bites are not fatal be aware of any spiders you can not identify.

A pet spider can be a wonderful addition to any family and as with any pet should never be left unattended with children. Education is important when selecting a pet spider, be sure you are capable of supplying proper care and nutrition to your spider. If you have never handled a spider and are afraid of them you may want to continue searching for the best pet that will suit your lifestyle.

Article Rescorces:

The pet spiders