What is a New World tarantula?

New World tarantulas are species from North, Central and South America. Many are popular with newer keepers because they are often slower-moving and more forgiving than many Old World species, although there are always exceptions because spiders enjoy keeping us humble.

Many New World species have urticating hairs, which they can flick as a defence. That is not a cuddle invitation; it is a reason to use calm maintenance and keep your face away from the enclosure.

What is an Old World tarantula?

Old World tarantulas are species from Africa, Asia and Europe. Many are faster, more defensive and more venom-forward in their defensive toolkit. They can be stunning display animals, but they are rarely the best first spider.

• Old World species usually do not have urticating hairs.
• They often require more confident rehousing and enclosure maintenance.
• They are best chosen after you understand the species, not because the colours looked nice at 2am.