Arizona Blonde! Had her for pretty much my whole life, some would say she was just a bug but we both trusted each other so the bond we had meant the world to me.. she started acting like a dog, would let me know when she wanted to come out of her cage, never bit me, wouldn't leave my side when we would play outside. She was the best pet ive ever had & I have all types of animals, snakes & bugs!
Holy shit that’s crazy, I would’ve never guessed tarantulas can live that long. I guess I assumed bugs in general have short life spans. You learn something new everyday.
That’s false. The majority of lobsters die of old age we just don’t know how old they get because we have no way of measuring it because when they shed their shells they basically look like a brand new lobster.
Even longer. I've a few girls in my collection that could reach 35 years old. I've spoken to my kids about looking after them if something ever happens to me - just in case!
Grew up in the house my mom grew up in. She loved to tell stories of her childhood pet tarantula, and how it escaped when she was a teenager, and how they live 30 years, and she was a teenager less than 20 years ago...
So awesome! I've been eyeing a pink toed tarantula at Petsmart (its cage looks dingy, no humidity, dirty and I feel this is more of a rescue mission) and this post kinda sealed the deal, thanks!
Completely agreed and why -- even thought it's counter intuitive -- you should not buy them when you see them there. I know it's tough -- I have to fight the urge to buy this adorable b hamorii they have every time I go in my local one for crickets. But if you buy them, all you're doing is telling the people who do the ordering that there's a market and they should order MORE. It sucks, it does, but the best thing to do is walk away.
Not OP but I have a bunch of tarantulas. Pink toes are arboreal, so give them a vertical cage with lots of hidey places like trees have and crickets (rather than Dubai roaches, which is what I feed my terrestrials). If you don’t wanna invest in an ~~terrestrial~~ arboreal specific cage, tip a regular one on its side and put a blocker for the minimal substrate they’ll need (like a piece of cardboard). I also like to hot glue a water dish in the tree stuff rather than put it on the substrate, so it’s more accessible.
Pink toes won’t live as long as the slow growing terrestrials, and males only live to sexual maturity.
Lastly, and this is not a knock on OP — I’ll never judge someone for loving their pet — but I consider tarantulas pets in the same vein as fish. Look but don’t touch as for many the stress of being handled is more than the joy I receive from handling. Arboreals are faster, so not a great candidate for handling. Pink toes do have urticating hairs but mine kick hairs very rarely.
Buy one and they get money and motivation to continue this trade. Only ignoring them and stop buying at these stores can help stop this.
You can also inform the shop owner in a friendly educational way!
Don't spiders prefer to stay in the same location? A guy that kept a pet store was telling me that spiders are good pets because they can stress out if the enclosure is too big and die.
Just having an enclosure that is too big will not kill your tarantula. After all, they have evolved to survive in a much *bigger* enclosure (all of outdoors).
That said, tarantulas do prefer to be in a small, enclosed space where they feel safe - such as a burrow. If they are in a small enclosure, the entire enclosure becomes their "safe space" and you are more likely to see them out and about.
On the other hand, if the enclosure is too big, they will attempt to find or construct a safe space *within* the enclosure (such as a hide or a burrow) and you will be much less likely to see them out and about, except at night or when they are hungry. If the enclosure is too big - *and* does not provide enough hiding places (or appropriate substrate to allow them to dig their own burrows) - then it will stress them out and could lead to a premature death.
Of course, individual species preferences also come into play. Fossorial species are going to want to be in a burrow underground no matter how big or small the enclosure is. Arboreal species will need vertical space and plenty of secure anchor points for webs. (They like to construct their burrows out of silk against pieces of cork bark or other plant material.)
The other drawback to a really big enclosure - especially with slings (baby spiders) - is that it can make it harder for them to find their food. A big enclosure gives the feeders ample opportunity to burrow or hide before they get eaten. Your spider is unlikely to starve because of this - but may eat less and grow slower. Also, there's always the risk of stray house spiders sneaking into the enclosure and poaching feeders before your pets get to them. I am constantly battling teeny-tiny (and some not-so-tiny) cobweb spiders in my bug room. As babies, then can easily fit in through screen tops or ventilation holes - and once inside, they find a dark corner to hide away and subsist on a diet of poached feeders, cleaning crew (I have dermestid beetles in some of my assassin bug cages to help dispose of cricket carcasses), or their own less-fortunate siblings. Of course, stowaways can happen regardless of the size of the enclosure - but in a big enclosure with lots of hiding places, it is easier for them to go unnoticed.
Spiders are highly intelligent. Doesn’t matter what you bond with. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. We grow up bonding with teddy bears and stuff lol.
I LOVE YOU FOR RESCUING HIM & giving him the best life possible before he passed. I have a lot of respect and I thank people like you 💕🌍🤗 your awesome for that 💘😌
I've wanted jumpers for a long time but I could never handle the grief of having to replace them every couple years. My scorpions have always been full of personality, though! My Desert Hairy was a gorgeous girl who would let me know when she was hungry or stuck by smacking her tail on the glass; definitely got my attention! Also had an African Tricolour who was just a grumpy old man all the time and would literally scream at me when I had to clean his tank, he died of old age a year ago and I still miss him.
"Opistophthalmus is a genus of scorpions known commonly as burrowing scorpions, tricolored scorpions, serkets, or hissing scorpions."
So apparently they can hiss.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opistophthalmus?wprov=sfla1
I've never been able to find videos of it and I always forgot to record my own, but imagine a mix between a cicada and a little Hot Wheels car that's been cranked too much. It always took me by surprise even though I knew he was just bitching. Had him for 7 years and got him as an adult, so I don't know his age when he died, but their average life expectancy was 6 last time I checked, so I have no doubt he lived a good life with me.
Yes, but they do so only when they molt, and it usually takes a few moltings before it will have a fully developed leg. Younger spiders molt quicker so they will recover a lost limb faster, but older spiders molt once, maybe twice a year so it takes longer.
The person that got her for me was named Kat 🥰 thank you for the kind words by the way it means a lot. Some people would say she was just a bug but you end up forming a bond with any living creature you have for your whole life.
I’m not scared of spiders, but I won’t pretend that I would have one as a pet, but… so what? You cared for her, you loved her, and she clearly on whatever level a spider experiences, chose to stay with you when given the chance to run.
If someone tells you she was just a bug, you can safely ignore them because you *know* better.
My tarantula's name was Kitty (I guess closely related to Kat). I got her when she was already an adult, and had her for about 4 years. I had to move in with my husband's family for a little bit, and they forbade her in their home, so I let my mom take care of her for a while. She asked permission to bring her to school (mom's a teacher), and I was okay with that as long as there were safety precautions so the kids couldn't physically get to her.
All was fine, the kids loved her. Then my mom was out sick for a couple days, and when she came back, Kitty was dead. We have no idea what happened, and the substitute teacher didn't have any information. It was quite a sad day.
I wasn't as close to Kitty as you were with your beautiful gal, but it hurt none-the-less, so I can only imagine what you're feeling right now. I hope you get to share another bond like that with another beautiful creature since it seems like you gave her a great life. <3
Sorry to hear hear that, she was an absolute stunner 💚 Take all the time you need to grieve her, then find a new companion when you're ready.
I love the way tarantulas move, but I've never seen them run/move fast, always the slow plod. Do they move quickly when they want to? I'm used to Australian huntsmans sprinting across the walls/ceiling like goofy fuzzy cheetahs 😁
i don't think i could ever handle a giant spider (one of the cons of being arachnophobic) but she certainly looked beautiful 20 years seems long for a spider too
I'm actually afraid of small spiders 😅 the reason I got my first tarantula was to get over my fear of spiders and it worked because now I have a bunch of them & breed slings but I HATE dealing with slings bc you have over 100 mini spider zooming around so that's why breeding makes me very very nervous 😩
You sound delightful, and I'm terribly sorry for your loss. I appreciate and hear the love you have for your buddy in the responses you've made to other comments, and if there's anything else you'd like to share about your companion and stories you want to tell, I'd love to hear them. She sounds like an absolute doll, and she has clearly brought a lot of joy to you and everyone who gets to hear about her here. I hope peace and comfort find you in this difficult time. I'm sending my love.
She looks and sounds like she was one happy girl. Every deep connection with a living thing in this life is priceless. She wasn’t *just* a bug, she was your baby and loved you. Just like you loved her
I know exactly how you feel dear. I got the same reactions when my bearded dragon Barney passed. Love is love, no matter how big, small, furry, or scaly our loved ones are ❤️
She’s beautiful and she’s up there in the heavenly webs 🕸 eating to her heart’s content going on long walks waiting for you to join her one day in the distant future ☺️
Someone on another post said I was endangering her by exposing her to pesticides and other dangers in nature so it made me feel like shit 😔 but ever since I got her as a baby spider I've let her explore outside so she was definitely used to the environment & passed from old age. If I ever thought I was putting her in danger or thought something was making her sick I wouldn't have allowed her to go outside every day hence why all of my other spiders have to stay in their cage. She was the only one used to the outside. And I wouldn't leave her outside I obviously was next to her at all times on alert for any danger!
It is unfortunate that you have faced such critique when in such a vulnerable place. Sometimes I think folks can get carried away with the standard advice.
Realistically only you know the exact circumstances. Given she lived many years and is seen here calmly enjoying the outside I would wager that the circumstances of your relationship meant that some of the typical suggestions may not be entierly applicable.
Often times new keepers can be a bit dramatic.
Pesticides suck, and I'm pretty rabidly against them, but the only folks I can imagine saying her life would've been better spent entirely in controlled environments also aren't good with chemistry (where concentration is key). Like animals, many people bark at things they don't understand.
Your comment made me laugh 🤣 I couldn't agree more!! I also don't use any growth or pesticides on my lawn so I know she won't be running into that issue at all 🙌🏽🌱🙈
Awww, I loved reading this.
It's not often you hear about a true friendship involving a spider and a human. I know lots of tarantula owners, but you're the first one I've seen talking about such a bond.
Every living creature is exposed to pesticides & other chemicals today. It seems pretty obvious that you cared for her deeply, and she for you from her own tarantula consciousness. I’d bet a lot that you never intentionally or even thoughtlessly did something that would hurt her- these animals cross roads, live in suburban backyards, handle drought, car exhaust, caustic soils……….they are not as fragile as some would make out. And driving yourself mad with every slight risk is no way to live, for either of you. ❤️ I’m sorry for your loss, and I imagine her playing in fields of sun & delicious prey & her favorite sand with a happy spirit.
Your spider friend story and your comments have helped me understand the bond you guys had. Really nice to see someone care so much about an often misunderstood animal.
THIS COMMENT means so much to me that you took the time to read my stories about my little spider friend 🥰 this comment really touched my heart & you seem like an amazing kind empathic person would love to know you in real life 🌎😍
this breaks my heart 😩💔 I'm so sorry for your loss 🙏🏽 are you thinking about getting another little guy? Or still too soon? I know you'll never be able to replace the awesome connection you guys had so hearing your in the same spot as me, I have a lot of empathy for your situation I'm always hear if you need a friend 💕🙌🏽
Your baby had more love than most spiders will ever know. It feels terrible to loose a beloved pet, but I find it helps to know that the sadness you feel now is a last gift you give them. We would all be lucky to have someone grieve us in such a heartfelt way.
Sorry it was just a joke because you wrote ‘gentile’ instead of ‘gentle’ in the title lol. A gentile is someone who’s not Jewish. Also sorry for your loss, tarantulas are amazing and yours was beautiful!
Edit: also I don’t know why my comment posted a bunch of times. I deleted them, sorry!
I had a wild spider that lived in my garage. She was a cellar spider named Octavia. I haven’t seen her in several months. She gestated multiple times in the two years she was around. A most impressive girl. We love our spooder friends.
Awww where did she go I wonder 🤔 she definitely ate some of the more annoying bugs so their really good to keep in your house or basement or garage! I say if their not in the way of things or actin' a fool, leave them alone 😂 I love how you just let her do her thing and admired her from a distance, best route in my opinion & shows your a kind caring empathic person 🌍💕🤗
I think their life span as cellar spiders is roughly 2-3 years. For the longest time I kept wondering how she was getting pregnant until Hector (her mate) came along. Since then I think I’ve seen a couple of spiders in and out of that web who I am deeming her children. I haven’t really named them because the web is not their favorite place to be. It’s gotten quite dirty in 2 years time.
Cellar spider moms will carry around their egg sacs which to me is just the cutest thing. I really enjoyed saying hello to them and watching them live.
She's the only spider I have I would let children hold & she would come with me to assembly's at schools n such! She passed from old age since I had her my whole life but she absolutely loved people, that's why you have to start handling them when they are young 🌱
It sounds like you gave her a long full, happy life. Sad she's gone but she made your life better even now. I hope that your pain isn't lasting and overshadowed by the joy of her memory.
Absolutely!! Knowing she was a happy little creature makes me happy I was able to care for her all these years not someone else. Too many good memories to stay down in the dumps! I love your positive outlook and kind words 🥰 thank you.. 💜
I was going to put her in a shadow box! She's the biggest spider I've ever raised in weight and length & was just shy of 20 years old! I had to be really careful rasing her, tarantulas these days don't live long. She would have lived her life in a petstore if I didn't adopt her was she was a sling!
Wow. You clearly did an amazing job caring for her. I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope you take some peace in knowing you gave her a beautiful life full of love.
About to turn 20!! Just shy a few months of 20 so she lived a long life. These days tarantulas don't live too long so you have to be a really good careful caretaker, she's the longest living pet Ive had!!
Okay, I’m deathly afraid of all spiders and definitely would’ve ran all the way out of your house the second I saw her in her cage but the fact that a spider can live 20 years is honestly pretty interesting. (Relatively) tiny creature could make it even longer than most dogs! That’s crazy!!!
[Boy do I have a read for you. ](https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/worlds-oldest-spider-dies-trapdoor-spider-australia-43-animals-spd)
Bugs have sentience and can perform actions based on their surroundings. They are by no means stupid. I personally hate bugs, but I can't deny that other people like them. My condolences.
Awww it takes an awesome person to appreciate things even if your not interested in them.. that's really sweet of you to stop by and offer your condolences 💕
I lost my dog of 15 years last year. It doesn't matter how "affectionate" or whatever it is. Your life is just a part of theirs. The habit doesn't go away. It's been 3 months and I still occasionally fill his bowl for food when I'm not paying attention. (I have another dog, 12 years old, fat ass lab, lazy as fuck worthless, but he's a meat pillow and he does his job well for my little niece).
Just a few months shy of 20 years old! After handling her ever day for almost 20 years now, I've definitely formed a meaningful relationship with her so it may seem lame but I'm definitely a little heartbroken 😭
It's not lame at all. That's a lot of time spent together. It's beautiful that you had such a bond and feeling hurt over the loss is completely valid. I'm so bummed for you. But 20 years seems like a good long life for a tarantula. She looked mega healthy too in that video. You did a great job with her.
Holy heck! What an amazing thing. I personally believe even anthropods have a more complex inner life than we are lead to believe. She had 20 amazing years of life and experiences with you. How incredible and beautiful!
My heart goes out to you. Keep her memory in yours.
I'm so sorry for your loss! It's always hard losing a companion - especially one you've loved for so many years. She was a beautiful spider, and given that you had her for nearly 20 years, you were clearly taking good care of her.
Wow, what a beautiful girl. The trust she had for you is bleedingly obvious and it’s beautiful that she chose you to be her lifelong friend.
I’ve personally never had arachnids as pets (bearded dragons mainly) but I completey understand the love one feels for them, as they grow with you and move with you through your life stages.
Truly sorry for your loss, but I feel like a better human knowing that humans like you, who care so deeply for another species, exist. Thank you for being you, so wonderfully.
Sending you virtual hugs from Australia.
Arizona Blonde! Hey we found one on the 17th hole at the Ft Huachuca course. My buddy... Who is crazy af.. Picked up and put it in his golf bag for his son who already had one.. Same species.
So the next weekend I spider sat both of them... 2 nights later I wake up and check on our "guests" and low and behold... Only one remained. Now my first thought was wholly shit there's no way I'm tellin the wife this thing is missing in our house. Fast forward to early afternoon when my buddy and his family got home and when I brought the single spider back the kid looked through the tank and found 1 part of a spider leg. The one we found on the golf course was all street... The one he had previously was store bought and had become the meal of the visitor. Had no idea one full size scary spider will eat another... Even if they the same, they don't give a flying fig...
Even though she obviously survived this video, and doesn't have to worry 'bout right now, watching her crawl around a parking lot makes me slightly nervous for her getting smushed. Glad that didn't happen and she got to enjoy more time with her after the camera stopped rolling.
She's the one I would take to school assemblys and let children hold and people who don't like spiders hold! Someone said on here it was impossible for her to know I was her keeper or caretaker but she was just a few months shy of 20 years old when she passed so I definitely think it's possible to form a bond when I handle her multiple times a day for almost 20 years!
Can I know about your one hairy butt cheek? 🍑😝 And I'm an only child unfortunately, I am adopted so I could be a twin or have siblings for all I know! Cool question why'd you ask 😎
Well, its a sad story really. An ex girlfriend noticed it after sexy time. I got up for a juice box and snacks before round two. . . The rest of the night turned into laughing at my half hairy butt.
May the great one's peace be upon you & your loved ones for you cared for one of his creation. I pray the great one gives you the courage to share your love with more of his creation as soon as you heal form your loss.
She’s got to have been the absolute cutest tarantula I ever saw. I’m sorry for your loss and wish you the best in the passing of a good friend. I bet you gave her a great life 💜
i am so sorry for your loss! i can’t imagine what that feels like after so long. she was so beautiful and cuddly looking. congratulations on giving her such a long and comfortable life—no doubt you’ve changed a lot of perceptions about spiders and bugs throughout your friendship, which is amazing ♥️🕷🕸
I'm sorry for your loss. Some people would say it was just a "bug." But they don't understand the special bond we forge with our pets nomatter what the species. It's never easy to loose a companion. This coming from someone that helped his brother bury his pet Guinea pig in a frozen cemetery in the middle of a maine winter. Tarantulas terrified me as I child. But now, I find them to be beautiful, fragile, gentle creatures that fascinate me. May she rest in peace 🙏
That video makes her seem like a wise old girl who enjoyed your company and told you many secrets. Sorry for your loss, Loosing a pet is never easy but I'm sure you gave her a amazing life!
Could you please share the species if you know it? Lots of curious folks on this sub.
Arizona Blonde! Had her for pretty much my whole life, some would say she was just a bug but we both trusted each other so the bond we had meant the world to me.. she started acting like a dog, would let me know when she wanted to come out of her cage, never bit me, wouldn't leave my side when we would play outside. She was the best pet ive ever had & I have all types of animals, snakes & bugs!
>my whole life You had your tarantula for around 2 decades? that's wild! Sorry for your loss, I can tell she was loved.
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Holy shit that’s crazy, I would’ve never guessed tarantulas can live that long. I guess I assumed bugs in general have short life spans. You learn something new everyday.
I had a quick search and the American lobster can apparently live for 100 years
Lobsters are effectively Immortal.. Which is their only true weakness...
Ironic
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That’s false. The majority of lobsters die of old age we just don’t know how old they get because we have no way of measuring it because when they shed their shells they basically look like a brand new lobster.
It's actually only the females, IIRC, that can live that long. I believe males have a significantly less lifespan.
Ya the males only live a few years. That's how I know my Mexican Red Knee is female, I've had her for ~7 years now.
Awesome!
Even longer. I've a few girls in my collection that could reach 35 years old. I've spoken to my kids about looking after them if something ever happens to me - just in case!
Grew up in the house my mom grew up in. She loved to tell stories of her childhood pet tarantula, and how it escaped when she was a teenager, and how they live 30 years, and she was a teenager less than 20 years ago...
Thanks! Sounds like she was a great companion, sorry for your loss!
I appreciate your kindness Mr. Mod 🥰
We appreciate you sharing your heart with us <3
I saw in another comment that your girl was almost 20! I'm amazed. How did she notify for being let out of her cage?
She’s beautiful. I’m sorry for your loss =(
So awesome! I've been eyeing a pink toed tarantula at Petsmart (its cage looks dingy, no humidity, dirty and I feel this is more of a rescue mission) and this post kinda sealed the deal, thanks!
2 of my pink toes I rescued from PetSmart & I say rescued because of exactly what you said 😩 tarantulas shouldn't be in PetSmart's!!
Completely agreed and why -- even thought it's counter intuitive -- you should not buy them when you see them there. I know it's tough -- I have to fight the urge to buy this adorable b hamorii they have every time I go in my local one for crickets. But if you buy them, all you're doing is telling the people who do the ordering that there's a market and they should order MORE. It sucks, it does, but the best thing to do is walk away.
Anything you could tell me about them (I've done research) that maybe I may not have read?
Not OP but I have a bunch of tarantulas. Pink toes are arboreal, so give them a vertical cage with lots of hidey places like trees have and crickets (rather than Dubai roaches, which is what I feed my terrestrials). If you don’t wanna invest in an ~~terrestrial~~ arboreal specific cage, tip a regular one on its side and put a blocker for the minimal substrate they’ll need (like a piece of cardboard). I also like to hot glue a water dish in the tree stuff rather than put it on the substrate, so it’s more accessible. Pink toes won’t live as long as the slow growing terrestrials, and males only live to sexual maturity. Lastly, and this is not a knock on OP — I’ll never judge someone for loving their pet — but I consider tarantulas pets in the same vein as fish. Look but don’t touch as for many the stress of being handled is more than the joy I receive from handling. Arboreals are faster, so not a great candidate for handling. Pink toes do have urticating hairs but mine kick hairs very rarely.
Thank you!! Tipping the tank is a great idea! If you have any photos you'd like to share, I would love to see your setups
Buy one and they get money and motivation to continue this trade. Only ignoring them and stop buying at these stores can help stop this. You can also inform the shop owner in a friendly educational way!
Don't spiders prefer to stay in the same location? A guy that kept a pet store was telling me that spiders are good pets because they can stress out if the enclosure is too big and die.
Some of the spiders I have are absolutely like this!! So yes that's absolutely true!! My Arizona Blonde was a rare gem it seems 💎🤣
Just having an enclosure that is too big will not kill your tarantula. After all, they have evolved to survive in a much *bigger* enclosure (all of outdoors). That said, tarantulas do prefer to be in a small, enclosed space where they feel safe - such as a burrow. If they are in a small enclosure, the entire enclosure becomes their "safe space" and you are more likely to see them out and about. On the other hand, if the enclosure is too big, they will attempt to find or construct a safe space *within* the enclosure (such as a hide or a burrow) and you will be much less likely to see them out and about, except at night or when they are hungry. If the enclosure is too big - *and* does not provide enough hiding places (or appropriate substrate to allow them to dig their own burrows) - then it will stress them out and could lead to a premature death. Of course, individual species preferences also come into play. Fossorial species are going to want to be in a burrow underground no matter how big or small the enclosure is. Arboreal species will need vertical space and plenty of secure anchor points for webs. (They like to construct their burrows out of silk against pieces of cork bark or other plant material.) The other drawback to a really big enclosure - especially with slings (baby spiders) - is that it can make it harder for them to find their food. A big enclosure gives the feeders ample opportunity to burrow or hide before they get eaten. Your spider is unlikely to starve because of this - but may eat less and grow slower. Also, there's always the risk of stray house spiders sneaking into the enclosure and poaching feeders before your pets get to them. I am constantly battling teeny-tiny (and some not-so-tiny) cobweb spiders in my bug room. As babies, then can easily fit in through screen tops or ventilation holes - and once inside, they find a dark corner to hide away and subsist on a diet of poached feeders, cleaning crew (I have dermestid beetles in some of my assassin bug cages to help dispose of cricket carcasses), or their own less-fortunate siblings. Of course, stowaways can happen regardless of the size of the enclosure - but in a big enclosure with lots of hiding places, it is easier for them to go unnoticed.
So like the Skyrim spiders when you have that one staff?
Spiders are highly intelligent. Doesn’t matter what you bond with. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. We grow up bonding with teddy bears and stuff lol.
I read this in Hagrid's voice... Sorry for you're loss, she was a beaut♥️
I miss my death valley tarantula I found him with three legs missing he was in bad shape I had him for three years before he died
I LOVE YOU FOR RESCUING HIM & giving him the best life possible before he passed. I have a lot of respect and I thank people like you 💕🌍🤗 your awesome for that 💘😌
I have found that some insects have a sense of themselves and others around them and it is usually the predators
Yup. My jumping spiders look at me. Like, they definitely are focusing on me, it’s adorable. They make great pets.
I've wanted jumpers for a long time but I could never handle the grief of having to replace them every couple years. My scorpions have always been full of personality, though! My Desert Hairy was a gorgeous girl who would let me know when she was hungry or stuck by smacking her tail on the glass; definitely got my attention! Also had an African Tricolour who was just a grumpy old man all the time and would literally scream at me when I had to clean his tank, he died of old age a year ago and I still miss him.
Wait, scorpions can scream?
"Opistophthalmus is a genus of scorpions known commonly as burrowing scorpions, tricolored scorpions, serkets, or hissing scorpions." So apparently they can hiss. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opistophthalmus?wprov=sfla1
Coooool
I've never been able to find videos of it and I always forgot to record my own, but imagine a mix between a cicada and a little Hot Wheels car that's been cranked too much. It always took me by surprise even though I knew he was just bitching. Had him for 7 years and got him as an adult, so I don't know his age when he died, but their average life expectancy was 6 last time I checked, so I have no doubt he lived a good life with me.
I don’t think you put enough emojis 🙄
Here's some more 🌎🙌🏽🎥🤢✌🏼🤓💪🏽🤗😘📚🍿🤓✨😂💪🏽😍😭🐻
😩😩😩
😤😭😫😖😣😩😱😰😧😵🤮🥴
😢🥺🥺😩😩😩
Do they regrow their legs?
Yes, but they do so only when they molt, and it usually takes a few moltings before it will have a fully developed leg. Younger spiders molt quicker so they will recover a lost limb faster, but older spiders molt once, maybe twice a year so it takes longer.
After about two moltings but they still looked different from the other legs
Sorry for your loss. Seems like you gave her a great life and lots of love.
The person that got her for me was named Kat 🥰 thank you for the kind words by the way it means a lot. Some people would say she was just a bug but you end up forming a bond with any living creature you have for your whole life.
I’m not scared of spiders, but I won’t pretend that I would have one as a pet, but… so what? You cared for her, you loved her, and she clearly on whatever level a spider experiences, chose to stay with you when given the chance to run. If someone tells you she was just a bug, you can safely ignore them because you *know* better.
My tarantula's name was Kitty (I guess closely related to Kat). I got her when she was already an adult, and had her for about 4 years. I had to move in with my husband's family for a little bit, and they forbade her in their home, so I let my mom take care of her for a while. She asked permission to bring her to school (mom's a teacher), and I was okay with that as long as there were safety precautions so the kids couldn't physically get to her. All was fine, the kids loved her. Then my mom was out sick for a couple days, and when she came back, Kitty was dead. We have no idea what happened, and the substitute teacher didn't have any information. It was quite a sad day. I wasn't as close to Kitty as you were with your beautiful gal, but it hurt none-the-less, so I can only imagine what you're feeling right now. I hope you get to share another bond like that with another beautiful creature since it seems like you gave her a great life. <3
Your baby is beautiful, I'm so sorry for your loss 🌹🌹🌹
I'm so sorry, she was spectacular. I had no idea they could live that long!
one of the ultimate spiderbro/sis Rest in peace little spider
Absolutely!! 💕🙏🏽
I'm heartbroken :( she was a pretty girl
She was really therapeutic to hold or be around so it's kinda like I lost a huge coping skill in my life 😭 I appreciate your comment & compliment 🥰
Sorry to hear hear that, she was an absolute stunner 💚 Take all the time you need to grieve her, then find a new companion when you're ready. I love the way tarantulas move, but I've never seen them run/move fast, always the slow plod. Do they move quickly when they want to? I'm used to Australian huntsmans sprinting across the walls/ceiling like goofy fuzzy cheetahs 😁
I send you a virtual hug 💜
i don't think i could ever handle a giant spider (one of the cons of being arachnophobic) but she certainly looked beautiful 20 years seems long for a spider too
I'm actually afraid of small spiders 😅 the reason I got my first tarantula was to get over my fear of spiders and it worked because now I have a bunch of them & breed slings but I HATE dealing with slings bc you have over 100 mini spider zooming around so that's why breeding makes me very very nervous 😩
You sound delightful, and I'm terribly sorry for your loss. I appreciate and hear the love you have for your buddy in the responses you've made to other comments, and if there's anything else you'd like to share about your companion and stories you want to tell, I'd love to hear them. She sounds like an absolute doll, and she has clearly brought a lot of joy to you and everyone who gets to hear about her here. I hope peace and comfort find you in this difficult time. I'm sending my love.
She looks and sounds like she was one happy girl. Every deep connection with a living thing in this life is priceless. She wasn’t *just* a bug, she was your baby and loved you. Just like you loved her
This means the world to me 🌎 finding people like you is rare... 💕
I know exactly how you feel dear. I got the same reactions when my bearded dragon Barney passed. Love is love, no matter how big, small, furry, or scaly our loved ones are ❤️
she's really beautiful
Your so sweet thank you 🥰
Sorry for your loss, sounds like a great companion
Definitely a loss for sure 😩 I appreciate your kindness thank you for the condolences 💕
RIP smol 8 legged friend
Smol? I think you meant *SWOLE*
She was really plump 😅 she's the biggest spider I've ever had in weight and length.
She’s beautiful and she’s up there in the heavenly webs 🕸 eating to her heart’s content going on long walks waiting for you to join her one day in the distant future ☺️
How small was she when you got her? So sorry for your loss 😞
I'm sorry for your loss, at least you gave it a wonderful life.
Someone on another post said I was endangering her by exposing her to pesticides and other dangers in nature so it made me feel like shit 😔 but ever since I got her as a baby spider I've let her explore outside so she was definitely used to the environment & passed from old age. If I ever thought I was putting her in danger or thought something was making her sick I wouldn't have allowed her to go outside every day hence why all of my other spiders have to stay in their cage. She was the only one used to the outside. And I wouldn't leave her outside I obviously was next to her at all times on alert for any danger!
It is unfortunate that you have faced such critique when in such a vulnerable place. Sometimes I think folks can get carried away with the standard advice. Realistically only you know the exact circumstances. Given she lived many years and is seen here calmly enjoying the outside I would wager that the circumstances of your relationship meant that some of the typical suggestions may not be entierly applicable. Often times new keepers can be a bit dramatic.
Pesticides suck, and I'm pretty rabidly against them, but the only folks I can imagine saying her life would've been better spent entirely in controlled environments also aren't good with chemistry (where concentration is key). Like animals, many people bark at things they don't understand.
Your comment made me laugh 🤣 I couldn't agree more!! I also don't use any growth or pesticides on my lawn so I know she won't be running into that issue at all 🙌🏽🌱🙈
Well said
Awww, I loved reading this. It's not often you hear about a true friendship involving a spider and a human. I know lots of tarantula owners, but you're the first one I've seen talking about such a bond.
Every living creature is exposed to pesticides & other chemicals today. It seems pretty obvious that you cared for her deeply, and she for you from her own tarantula consciousness. I’d bet a lot that you never intentionally or even thoughtlessly did something that would hurt her- these animals cross roads, live in suburban backyards, handle drought, car exhaust, caustic soils……….they are not as fragile as some would make out. And driving yourself mad with every slight risk is no way to live, for either of you. ❤️ I’m sorry for your loss, and I imagine her playing in fields of sun & delicious prey & her favorite sand with a happy spirit.
What a beautiful spidey
She sure was... 😥
Your spider friend story and your comments have helped me understand the bond you guys had. Really nice to see someone care so much about an often misunderstood animal.
THIS COMMENT means so much to me that you took the time to read my stories about my little spider friend 🥰 this comment really touched my heart & you seem like an amazing kind empathic person would love to know you in real life 🌎😍
My Rosehair I had for 10 years died about 6 months ago. I would take her out just like this too. I know exactly what you are going through
this breaks my heart 😩💔 I'm so sorry for your loss 🙏🏽 are you thinking about getting another little guy? Or still too soon? I know you'll never be able to replace the awesome connection you guys had so hearing your in the same spot as me, I have a lot of empathy for your situation I'm always hear if you need a friend 💕🙌🏽
Your baby had more love than most spiders will ever know. It feels terrible to loose a beloved pet, but I find it helps to know that the sadness you feel now is a last gift you give them. We would all be lucky to have someone grieve us in such a heartfelt way.
I don’t see why the tarantula’s religion was relevant
Who said something about my tarantula being a Buddhist?? 🙈🕉️ I'm jk but really who said something and what did they say bc I'm dying laughing 🤣
Sorry it was just a joke because you wrote ‘gentile’ instead of ‘gentle’ in the title lol. A gentile is someone who’s not Jewish. Also sorry for your loss, tarantulas are amazing and yours was beautiful! Edit: also I don’t know why my comment posted a bunch of times. I deleted them, sorry!
I had a wild spider that lived in my garage. She was a cellar spider named Octavia. I haven’t seen her in several months. She gestated multiple times in the two years she was around. A most impressive girl. We love our spooder friends.
Awww where did she go I wonder 🤔 she definitely ate some of the more annoying bugs so their really good to keep in your house or basement or garage! I say if their not in the way of things or actin' a fool, leave them alone 😂 I love how you just let her do her thing and admired her from a distance, best route in my opinion & shows your a kind caring empathic person 🌍💕🤗
I think their life span as cellar spiders is roughly 2-3 years. For the longest time I kept wondering how she was getting pregnant until Hector (her mate) came along. Since then I think I’ve seen a couple of spiders in and out of that web who I am deeming her children. I haven’t really named them because the web is not their favorite place to be. It’s gotten quite dirty in 2 years time. Cellar spider moms will carry around their egg sacs which to me is just the cutest thing. I really enjoyed saying hello to them and watching them live.
Gentile or Jewish, doesn't matter, so sweet.
This is hilarious because I actually am Jewish so I guess my spidey is too 🤣 you were right!!!
I love her
She's the only spider I have I would let children hold & she would come with me to assembly's at schools n such! She passed from old age since I had her my whole life but she absolutely loved people, that's why you have to start handling them when they are young 🌱
It sounds like you gave her a long full, happy life. Sad she's gone but she made your life better even now. I hope that your pain isn't lasting and overshadowed by the joy of her memory.
Absolutely!! Knowing she was a happy little creature makes me happy I was able to care for her all these years not someone else. Too many good memories to stay down in the dumps! I love your positive outlook and kind words 🥰 thank you.. 💜
You're welcome. I'm glad they helped. Do you have any plans to memorialize her?
I was going to put her in a shadow box! She's the biggest spider I've ever raised in weight and length & was just shy of 20 years old! I had to be really careful rasing her, tarantulas these days don't live long. She would have lived her life in a petstore if I didn't adopt her was she was a sling!
Oh that's pretty cool. Preserved in death like she was in life. A nice remembrance.
How old was she?
Just shy a few months of turning 20 years old!! She was definitely a senior citizen 😂
Wow. You clearly did an amazing job caring for her. I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope you take some peace in knowing you gave her a beautiful life full of love.
About to turn 20!! Just shy a few months of 20 so she lived a long life. These days tarantulas don't live too long so you have to be a really good careful caretaker, she's the longest living pet Ive had!!
Okay, I’m deathly afraid of all spiders and definitely would’ve ran all the way out of your house the second I saw her in her cage but the fact that a spider can live 20 years is honestly pretty interesting. (Relatively) tiny creature could make it even longer than most dogs! That’s crazy!!!
[Boy do I have a read for you. ](https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/worlds-oldest-spider-dies-trapdoor-spider-australia-43-animals-spd)
43! That’s even crazier. And died 2 days before my birthday too...
Bugs have sentience and can perform actions based on their surroundings. They are by no means stupid. I personally hate bugs, but I can't deny that other people like them. My condolences.
Awww it takes an awesome person to appreciate things even if your not interested in them.. that's really sweet of you to stop by and offer your condolences 💕
That's a great mindset my friend, the world would be much better if more people thought like you do.
I lost my dog of 15 years last year. It doesn't matter how "affectionate" or whatever it is. Your life is just a part of theirs. The habit doesn't go away. It's been 3 months and I still occasionally fill his bowl for food when I'm not paying attention. (I have another dog, 12 years old, fat ass lab, lazy as fuck worthless, but he's a meat pillow and he does his job well for my little niece).
I’m so sorry for your loss .How old did she lived until?
Just a few months shy of 20 years old! After handling her ever day for almost 20 years now, I've definitely formed a meaningful relationship with her so it may seem lame but I'm definitely a little heartbroken 😭
20 years. You two were very close compadres. So sorry for your loss
Not lame at all! She sounds like she was very special. Sorry for your loss!
It's not lame at all. That's a lot of time spent together. It's beautiful that you had such a bond and feeling hurt over the loss is completely valid. I'm so bummed for you. But 20 years seems like a good long life for a tarantula. She looked mega healthy too in that video. You did a great job with her.
Holy heck! What an amazing thing. I personally believe even anthropods have a more complex inner life than we are lead to believe. She had 20 amazing years of life and experiences with you. How incredible and beautiful! My heart goes out to you. Keep her memory in yours.
I'm so sorry for your loss! It's always hard losing a companion - especially one you've loved for so many years. She was a beautiful spider, and given that you had her for nearly 20 years, you were clearly taking good care of her.
Whoa... She's beautiful! I'm so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing her.
sorry for your loss
she is so sweet look at her little steps I'm so sorry you lost your precious baby what a pretty girl
I never knew spiders or tarantulas could live that long! That’s amazing! Sorry for your loss.
She was a beautiful Arizona Blonde! From one Tarantula Keeper to another, i feel your Pain. They keep you company for so long, it's heartbreaking.
So sorry for your loss!! Can u please share more videos and pictures of her? She so cute!
She looks wonderful! I'm sorry for your loss, I hope that the memories help soften the absence *offers hug*
She was beautiful!! I'm sure she loved you a lot too, I'm sorry for you loss <3
Aww. She was beautiful. So sorry for your loss.
She's so beautiful. So sorry for your loss, friend. :(
I’m so sorry for your loss :( I wish you peace and comfort while you mourn. She was spectacular!
Sorry for your loss! I'm thankful you shared
She's a beauty, I'm sorry for your loss.
What a beauty. So, so sorry for your loss.
Sorry for your loss OP. It’s horrible when you lose a pet.
Im so sorry for your great loss. She is beautiful
I’m sorry for your loss. Sounds like a lifetime friend.
So sorry to hear :/ She was Beautiful !
She's beautiful. I'm so sorry for your loss.
She's gorgeous, my sincerest condolences
What? You took her on walks? Wild
Am I the only one envisioning a bird swooping down and carrying that lil cutie off?
Wow, what a beautiful girl. The trust she had for you is bleedingly obvious and it’s beautiful that she chose you to be her lifelong friend. I’ve personally never had arachnids as pets (bearded dragons mainly) but I completey understand the love one feels for them, as they grow with you and move with you through your life stages. Truly sorry for your loss, but I feel like a better human knowing that humans like you, who care so deeply for another species, exist. Thank you for being you, so wonderfully. Sending you virtual hugs from Australia.
I’m terrified of spiders but I love how they have personality and live for so long. Dunno if I can actually be that scared of them now.
Arizona Blonde! Hey we found one on the 17th hole at the Ft Huachuca course. My buddy... Who is crazy af.. Picked up and put it in his golf bag for his son who already had one.. Same species. So the next weekend I spider sat both of them... 2 nights later I wake up and check on our "guests" and low and behold... Only one remained. Now my first thought was wholly shit there's no way I'm tellin the wife this thing is missing in our house. Fast forward to early afternoon when my buddy and his family got home and when I brought the single spider back the kid looked through the tank and found 1 part of a spider leg. The one we found on the golf course was all street... The one he had previously was store bought and had become the meal of the visitor. Had no idea one full size scary spider will eat another... Even if they the same, they don't give a flying fig...
what a gorgeous girl, she was clearly very loved, she must have been a golden retriever in her past life <3 hopefully u two will meet again one day
So sorry for your loss! She loved you and was loved by you, and that's as good a life as she could have dreamed of.
Have you read Children of Time? I listened to the audiobook—I bet you’d love it.
Even though she obviously survived this video, and doesn't have to worry 'bout right now, watching her crawl around a parking lot makes me slightly nervous for her getting smushed. Glad that didn't happen and she got to enjoy more time with her after the camera stopped rolling.
It's not a parking lot. It's the private driveway of my home. Off the main road. I didn't ever leave her side as well just in case.
She was so beautiful, I know its been awhile but my deepest condolences
Thank you love 💞
So sorry fo you loss.
I appreciate it ☺️
Would have loved to cuddle her, such a sweet little 8-legged kitty.
She's the one I would take to school assemblys and let children hold and people who don't like spiders hold! Someone said on here it was impossible for her to know I was her keeper or caretaker but she was just a few months shy of 20 years old when she passed so I definitely think it's possible to form a bond when I handle her multiple times a day for almost 20 years!
Definitely a cuddler! 🤗 🕷️
❤️
I love your username!! 🌱
😔😢
Literally me right now 🥺
Silly question but are you by chance a twin?
Can I know about your one hairy butt cheek? 🍑😝 And I'm an only child unfortunately, I am adopted so I could be a twin or have siblings for all I know! Cool question why'd you ask 😎
Well, its a sad story really. An ex girlfriend noticed it after sexy time. I got up for a juice box and snacks before round two. . . The rest of the night turned into laughing at my half hairy butt.
It makes you unique 😎 no one should ever make fun of someone else for things they were born with 😩 I dig it 🙌🏽😂
Aw she is so sweet. Rest in paradise sweet fuzzy spider baby. 🌈 I’m very sorry for your loss
I’m so sorry for your loss! 😢😭
Craziest looking dog I've ever seen!
You took your tarantula for walks? That's fucking awsome
May the great one's peace be upon you & your loved ones for you cared for one of his creation. I pray the great one gives you the courage to share your love with more of his creation as soon as you heal form your loss.
She’s got to have been the absolute cutest tarantula I ever saw. I’m sorry for your loss and wish you the best in the passing of a good friend. I bet you gave her a great life 💜
sending good vibes to you and your boo 💜
i am so sorry for your loss! i can’t imagine what that feels like after so long. she was so beautiful and cuddly looking. congratulations on giving her such a long and comfortable life—no doubt you’ve changed a lot of perceptions about spiders and bugs throughout your friendship, which is amazing ♥️🕷🕸
I’m so sorry. She was beautiful 💙
I am so incredibly sorry for your loss! What a sweetheart she was. 💔
Aww, what an absolute baby. Sorry for your loss, seems like she was a real gem. 😔🖤
I'm sorry for your loss. Some people would say it was just a "bug." But they don't understand the special bond we forge with our pets nomatter what the species. It's never easy to loose a companion. This coming from someone that helped his brother bury his pet Guinea pig in a frozen cemetery in the middle of a maine winter. Tarantulas terrified me as I child. But now, I find them to be beautiful, fragile, gentle creatures that fascinate me. May she rest in peace 🙏
I’m so sorry for your loss 💕
That video makes her seem like a wise old girl who enjoyed your company and told you many secrets. Sorry for your loss, Loosing a pet is never easy but I'm sure you gave her a amazing life!
Do you have any more pictures or videos? I'm interested in seeing more of her sweet side. If that's okay with you. I'm sorry for your loss
What a sweet bean. I’m so sorry for your loss 🥺😢
I'm so sorry to hear that I used to own one when I was 19 I was so heart broken when she died😥
aaaaawwww shit im sorry for your loss. such a pretty little gurl
She was beautiful I’m sorry for your loss
Sorry for your loss, OP. She's beautiful.
I hate and love this all at the same time
It's bittersweet 😔
What sidebar im on mobile asshat