Tarantula basics

Beginner Guides for Tarantula Keepers

Straightforward Spoodoire guidance for new keepers, curious customers and anyone trying to work out whether a tiny spiderling is a sensible life choice.

Spiderling basics

What is a spiderling?

A spiderling is a young tarantula: tiny, delicate, usually cheaper than larger specimens, and absolutely not just a mini adult with fewer opinions.

Choosing by temperament

New World vs Old World tarantulas

New World and Old World tarantulas come from different regions and often behave very differently, which matters far more than the label sounding dramatic.

First tarantula advice

Best beginner tarantulas in the UK

The best beginner tarantula is usually hardy, captive-bred, steady to maintain and backed by clear care information rather than internet bravado.

Lifestyle guide

Arboreal vs terrestrial tarantulas

Arboreal, terrestrial and fossorial tarantulas use space differently, so enclosure shape matters as much as enclosure size.

Housing basics

What size enclosure does a tarantula need?

Tarantula enclosures should be secure, ventilated and sized for the animal in front of you, not the display cabinet you have already mentally bought.

Growth and patience

Tarantula moulting guide

Moulting is how tarantulas grow, and the best thing a keeper can often do is the deeply heroic act of leaving them alone.

Food without the fuss

Tarantula feeding guide

Feeding tarantulas is usually simple: suitable prey, sensible frequency and no panic when a perfectly healthy spider decides food is cancelled this week.

Reference

Tarantula Glossary

Plain-English explanations for the words keepers and retailers use all the time.