Do Tarantulas Really Bite Humans?

Despite the frequent fears, tarantulas are not out to attack humans. In fact, spider bites to humans are quite rare. When they do occur, it is usually due to the human being perceived as a threat by the spider. Spiders, by nature, are timid and non-aggressive towards humans.

Spider Bites and Venom

Spiders use their venom primarily to subdue prey. However, only in certain situations do spiders envenomate humans during a bite. Since humans are not typically their prey, envenomating a human wastes a valuable resource. This concept is critical to understand.

Most of the time, when a spider does bite a human, the reaction is minor and non-fatal. According to studies, about 90% of tarantula bites are not life-threatening and are more akin to a nuisance, akin to a bee sting.

Humans as a Greater Threat to Spiders

Humans pose a much greater risk to spiders than spiders do to humans. Habitat encroachment by humans has led to the endangerment of many spider species, while the number of spider populations remains relatively stable. For example, the Ladybird spider in the UK, whose habitat is kept hidden to protect them from human interference.

Handling and Safety Precautions

While tarantulas are generally safe, there are instances where handling can be dangerous. For instance, the Burmese tarantula (often called Cobalt Blue tarantula), which the author had in her collection due to her aggressive nature.

Most of the time, the injury inflicted by a tarantula is not fatal but can be painful. Two fangs deliver the venom, similar to being stung by two bees. Some tarantulas can deliver bites that are particularly painful, potentially requiring hospital visits for precaution.

The YouTube is a great resource, as there are numerous channels dedicated to tarantulas, where you can learn more about these fascinating creatures.

Regional Considerations

Old World tarantulas (those from the Old World regions like Asia and Africa) are more aggressive than New World tarantulas (those from the Americas). Therefore, if you're a beginner in tarantula keeping, it is wise to opt for a tarantula from the Americas. Ensure you are familiar with the more venomous species, such as the Brown Recluse and Black Widow.

Conclusion and Safety Practices

The bottom line is that while tarantulas can bite, they do so with great caution and only in self-defense. With proper knowledge and handling practices, tarantulas can be safe to keep as pets. Always exercise caution and seek professional advice if you plan to handle tarantulas or keep them as pets.

Would you like to learn more about tarantulas or spider safety? Feel free to reach out or explore the available resources online.