Moulting
Molting is an important biological process that allows tarantulas to grow by replacing their exoskeleton. It occurs in several stages.
1. Premolt
Stopping eating
Tarantulas stop eating a few days to months before molting.
Swelling of the abdomen
The abdomen expands to accommodate the newly forming exoskeleton.
Color changes
The color of the abdomen may darken and hairs may be lost.
2. Molting
Preparation
Tarantulas usually weave a thicker web to protect themselves during molting.
Positioning
It turns onto its back and begins to slip out of its old exoskeleton. This process can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.
Vulnerability
During molting, the tarantula is extremely vulnerable. Any disturbance (touch, light, vibrations, movements) can seriously harm it. It is therefore essential to leave the animal alone during this time.
Important tips
Hydration
Throughout the molting process, it is important that the tarantula has access to fresh water. Check regularly to make sure the water dish is full.
Patience
Be patient and let your tarantula shed at its own pace.
Observation
Observe your tarantula closely during and after molting. If you notice any behavioral and/or physical abnormalities, please contact a breeder or specialized forums (link discord, arachnoboard, reddit).
What to do with the skin (exuvia)?
If your tarantula has molted underground or in its web and the skin is not accessible, it is better to leave it in the terrarium. However, you can remove the exuvia if it is easily accessible (but be careful not to disturb the tarantulas before they have recovered from molting). Use long tweezers to do this. It is always important to handle the skin carefully, as it may contain urticating hairs (depending on the species of tarantula).
3. After the molt
Recovery
After molting, the tarantula needs time to recover. Its legs are soft and translucent.
Stretching
It will perform stretching movements to make its new exoskeleton more flexible.
Resuming feeding
Do not feed your tarantula until it is behaving normally again and its chelicerae (hooks) have hardened, usually about ten days after molting.
