Spiders as Pets? 3 Popular Arachnids

Introduction

Keeping spiders as pets in the UK is becoming more popular as people start to recognise these fascinating creatures’ beauty and uniqueness. Many individuals find keeping a spider as a pet an ideal hobby, as it is low maintenance, relatively inexpensive and can provide endless entertainment.

A Misunderstood Creature

Spiders are often feared and misunderstood creatures but play an essential role in our ecosystem. They help control the population of insects and other pests, and some species even provide valuable medical benefits. For example, the funnel-web spider’s venom has been used to create a life-saving anti-venom for snake bites. Despite their usefulness, many people still have a phobia of spiders, which can be challenging to overcome. However, with education and exposure, it is possible to appreciate these fascinating creatures and even keep them as pets.

Let’s explore the types of spiders that you can get.


Tarantulas are the most popular species of spider to keep as a pet at home in the UK. These spiders are generally docile and non-aggressive, making them easier to handle than many other species. They also come in a variety of colours and patterns, which adds to their appeal. However, it is important to note that tarantulas are venomous and should only be handled by those who are experienced in caring for them.

spiders as pets
spiders as pets

When keeping spiders as pets, their living environment is crucial. While tarantulas may not require as much attention as other pets, providing them with a suitable living environment is still necessary. Neglecting their needs can lead to health issues and even death. Additionally, it would be best to research the specific needs of the species you are keeping, as different types of spiders have different requirements.

With proper care and attention, a pet spider can be a fascinating and low-maintenance addition to your household. A terrarium with ample space, substrate, hiding places, and water dishes must be provided. Depending on the species, the conditions and temperature of the terrarium will need to be monitored regularly to ensure that the spider is healthy and thriving.

Easy to Keep

One of the main benefits of keeping a spider as a pet is that they require minimal attention. Unlike a dog, which demands regular and constant attention, spiders are happy to be left alone for several days. This makes them ideal for a pet owner who travels frequently or has a busy lifestyle but still wants a pet.

There are several options if you’re looking for spiders to keep as pets. Wolf spiders are a great choice, as they don’t require much in the way of specialized housing. Tarantulas also make good pets and don’t need as much space as some other breeds. Bird-eating spiders are another choice, although you need some degree of experience with all the spiders mentioned! Many spiders are slightly venomous, although they are not considered as dangerous to humans.

spiders

Wolf Spiders

Wolf spiders (originally called tarantulas) are a good choice for pet spiders in the UK. They are relatively low-maintenance and don’t require any specialized housing. However, they do need to be kept in a tank with a substrate such as moss, and they need a hiding place. They are nocturnal, so they will need to be kept in a dimly lit region. They also need to be fed a variety of insects, such as crickets and mealworms, and they require a relatively humid environment. They are also relatively hardy and can live up to five years if kept properly.

They can give you a nasty bite, but their bite is not venomous.

Tarantulas

Tarantulas make good pets and don’t need as much space as some other breeds. They require a large tank with a secure lid, as they can climb and jump. They also need a substrate such as a coconut fibre and a hiding place. They should be fed a variety of insects, such as crickets and mealworms. They also prefer a slightly humid environment, so a humidifier may be needed. Additionally, they require regular maintenance and should be handled with care.

You can read a comprehensive article about tarantulas by CLICKING HERE

Bird Eating Spiders

Bird-eating spiders make good pets, although they can be difficult to take care of due to their large size and aggressive nature. They require a large tank with a secure lid, as they can climb and jump. They also need a deep substrate such as soil or sand and a hiding place. They should be fed a variety of insects, such as crickets and mealworms, and they require a relatively humid environment. They should also be handled with care and caution, as they can be very aggressive. Additionally, they require regular maintenance and cleaning of the tank.

Their bite should not affect you. It will be like getting stung by a bee.

spiders as pets

Summary

In conclusion, keeping spiders as pets in the UK is a unique and rewarding experience, but it’s not for everyone. Potential owners must research to select the species that suits them best and ensure they have the right living environment. While spiders require a slightly different kind of care compared to traditional pets, they make great low-maintenance companions for those who want something different.

Need help with this article? Contact Us, and we will be happy to assist you.

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