BEHAVIOR AND POSITIONS
Tarantulas adopt different postures and behaviors that can sometimes surprise or alarm their owners. Unlike more traditional pets, their body language is subtle, and it is worth understanding it to ensure their well-being.
This section examines the postures and positions most commonly seen in tarantulas. However, it is the essence of memory that is individual and unique, taking on behaviors that are unique to them. Certain postures are common, but not necessarily a sign of a health problem; rather, they are an expression of what we might call “tarantula habits” (Tarantula tarantuling).
Positions
Rest
A position adopted during rest or digestion periods. Your animal will likely be immobile most of the time when housed in its terrarium.
Stress pose
Position adopted when tarantulas are stressed.
Mealtimes (4x4 mode)
It is not uncommon for the animal to stand tall on its legs while eating and switch to “4x4 mode.” In this situation, the tarantula often turns around to secure its prey in a web.
Defensive posture
A posture adopted when the tarantula feels threatened. It may raise its front legs, display its chelicerae, or spray urticating hairs.
Stretching
Tarantulas sometimes perform stretching movements, especially after molting, to make their new exoskeleton supple.
Thirst
Active search for water, dipping of chelicerae into water bowl.
Moulting
Death
Immobile and unresponsive to stimuli, legs often curled up under the tarantula's body.
Warning, the tarantula can be molting.
Preening
Tarantulas regularly clean their legs and abdomen with mouth fluid to remove dust and debris from their bodies.
Behavior patterns
Exploration
Tarantulas explore their surroundings in search of food, water, or new hiding places.
Webbing
The construction of webs is essential for most species. The webs usually serve as shelter and as geolocating mats.
Hunger
Restlessness, increased exploration of the terrarium.
Stridulation
Some species vibrate their abdomen to intimidate predators.
Thermoregulation
Tarantulas regulate their body temperature by choosing warmer or cooler spots in their terrarium.
Geotaxis
Some specimens prefer to stay on the ground, while others climb up the walls of their terrarium.
Phototaxis
Some species are attracted or repelled by light.
Important note
By observing the behavior of your tarantulas, you can better understand their needs and identify potential health problems. Each species has its own characteristics, so it is important to learn about the species you are keeping.