This article takes a closer look at 12 of the biggest spiders in the world. From the Goliath bird-eater spider, one of the largest and heaviest spiders, to the giant huntsman spider with its impressively long leg span, this article provides fascinating information about these incredible arachnids. However, not all of these spiders are suitable as pets for beginners, such as the Goliath Pinkfoot Tarantula. Found in the tropical rainforest, the Brazilian salmon pink birdeater spider can grow up to a whopping 11 inches in leg span. From the Colombian giant tarantula with its striking red legs to the Face-sized tarantula recently discovered in Sri Lanka, these 12 spiders showcase the incredible diversity within the world of spiders.
Goliath Bird-Eater Spider
Description
The Goliath Bird-Eater Spider is widely known as one of the largest and heaviest spiders in the world. It belongs to the tarantula family and can be found in the rainforests of South America. This giant arachnid gets its name from the belief that it preys on small birds, although its primary diet consists of insects and other small animals.
Size and Weight
The Goliath Bird-Eater Spider can grow to have a leg span of up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) and a body length of around 5 inches (13 centimeters). In terms of weight, these formidable spiders can reach up to 6 ounces (170 grams), making them one of the heaviest spiders in the world.
Habitat and Distribution
These creatures are native to the rainforests of South America, including countries such as Brazil, Venezuela, and Suriname. They are ground-dwelling spiders that typically make their homes in burrows or under foliage. Their habitats are characterized by high humidity and dense vegetation.
Behavior and Diet
Despite their intimidating appearance, Goliath Bird-Eater Spiders are generally docile and will only show aggression when provoked. They are primarily nocturnal hunters and use their powerful fangs to inject venom into their prey. Their diet consists of a variety of animals, including insects, small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. These spiders also engage in molting, shedding their old exoskeletons as they grow larger. This process can occur several times throughout their life span.
Giant Huntsman Spider
Description
The Giant Huntsman Spider is known for its impressive leg span, which in certain cases can exceed 12 inches (30 centimeters). These spiders are often referred to as “wood spiders” due to their preferred habitats in wooded areas. They have a distinct appearance, with long, thin legs and a flattened body. Their coloration can vary, but they are typically brown or gray.
Leg Span
As the spider with the longest leg span in the world, the Giant Huntsman Spider possesses a remarkable ability to move quickly and navigate through various types of terrain. Their long legs enable them to cover large distances, making them proficient hunters.
Habitat and Distribution
These spiders are found in warm regions of the world, including Southeast Asia, Australia, and the southern United States. They prefer to reside in dark and secluded spaces such as caves, tree trunks, and crevices. Although they are skilled hunters, they usually avoid human dwellings.
Behavior and Diet
Giant Huntsman Spiders are nocturnal hunters that primarily feed on insects and other arthropods. They use their impressive speed and agility to chase down their prey and deliver a venomous bite. Despite their large size, these spiders are generally harmless to humans. They prefer to flee when encountered rather than display aggression or engage in defensive behavior.
Goliath Pinkfoot Tarantula
Description
The Goliath Pinkfoot Tarantula, as the name suggests, is a species of tarantula known for its pink feet. These spiders have a distinctive appearance with a dark-colored body covered in dense hairs. They are often described as strikingly beautiful due to their unique coloration and patterns.
Pink Feet
One of the distinguishing features of the Goliath Pinkfoot Tarantula is its vibrant pink-colored feet. This striking characteristic adds to their allure and makes them a sought-after species among tarantula enthusiasts.
Suitability as a Pet
While the Goliath Pinkfoot Tarantula may be visually appealing, it is not recommended as a pet for beginners. They require specific environmental conditions and a well-maintained habitat to thrive. Additionally, they possess potent venom, which can cause discomfort or be dangerous if mishandled.
Habitat and Distribution
These tarantulas are native to the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in areas of Brazil. They prefer to live in burrows or under rocks, providing them with a safe and secluded habitat. Due to the destruction of their natural habitat, the Goliath Pinkfoot Tarantula is considered a vulnerable species in the wild.
Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater Spider
Description
The Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater Spider is a formidable arachnid found in the tropical rainforests of Brazil. It is renowned for its imposing size and distinctive appearance. These spiders have a robust body covered in reddish-brown hairs, giving them a salmon pink coloration.
Size and Leg Span
This species of spider can grow to have a leg span of up to 11 inches (28 centimeters) and a body length of around 4 inches (10 centimeters). With such dimensions, the Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater Spider is considered one of the largest tarantulas in the world.
Habitat and Distribution
The Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater Spider is endemic to the Amazon rainforest in Brazil. It prefers to inhabit the forest floor, where it constructs extensive burrows to seek shelter and ambush its prey. These spiders are well-adapted to the humid and warm climate of the rainforest.
Behavior and Diet
These spiders are primarily nocturnal and hunt by ambushing their prey. Their diet consists of a variety of insects, small vertebrates, and other spiders. Despite their formidable appearance, they are generally non-aggressive towards humans and prefer to retreat or display threat displays when disturbed.
Brazilian Giant Tawny Red Tarantula
Description
The Brazilian Giant Tawny Red Tarantula is a striking species of tarantula native to Brazil. It is widely kept as a pet due to its impressive size and attractive coloration. These spiders have a robust body covered in dense reddish-brown hairs, giving them a vibrant appearance.
Suitability as a Pet
The Brazilian Giant Tawny Red Tarantula is often sought after by spider enthusiasts and pet owners. Its calm temperament and relative ease of care make it suitable for those looking to keep a pet tarantula. However, proper research and understanding of their specific needs are essential to ensure their well-being.
Size and Leg Span
As their name suggests, these tarantulas can reach a leg span of up to 10 inches (25 centimeters). They have a stocky body and impressive size, making them a visually captivating species.
Habitat and Distribution
The Brazilian Giant Tawny Red Tarantula is endemic to Brazil, where it can be found in various habitats, including tropical rainforests and grasslands. They typically burrow or take shelter under rocks or fallen logs. These spiders require a warm and humid environment to thrive.
Haitian Giant Tarantula
Description
The Haitian Giant Tarantula, also known as the Haitian Brown Tarantula, is a species of tarantula found in the Caribbean. It is highly regarded for its formidable size and distinctive appearance. These spiders have a dark-colored body covered in dense hairs, giving them a textured and robust appearance.
Size and Leg Span
Haitian Giant Tarantulas can have a leg span of up to 9 inches (23 centimeters) and a body length of around 4 inches (10 centimeters). These impressive measurements make them one of the largest tarantulas in the Caribbean region.
Habitat and Distribution
As the name suggests, the Haitian Giant Tarantula is native to Haiti and other Caribbean islands. They primarily inhabit forested areas, where they construct burrows or take residence in tree hollows. These spiders prefer warmer and more humid climates.
Behavior and Diet
Haitian Giant Tarantulas are nocturnal creatures, actively hunting for small insects and other invertebrates. Their diet primarily consists of crickets, beetles, and other arthropods. They are generally shy and non-aggressive, preferring to retreat when confronted or threatened.
Colombian Giant Tarantula
Description
The Colombian Giant Tarantula is a species of tarantula native to the rainforests of Colombia. It is known for its robust body and striking appearance. These spiders have a dark-colored body covered in dense black hairs with prominent red or orange leg segments.
Size and Leg Span
The Colombian Giant Tarantula can have a leg span ranging from 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), making it a substantial-sized tarantula. Its stocky body adds to its overall impressive stature.
Habitat and Distribution
These tarantulas are native to the rainforests and other forested areas of Colombia. They typically reside on the forest floor or in burrows they create. The Colombian Giant Tarantula is well-adapted to the humid and warm climate of its natural habitat.
Notable Characteristics
Apart from its large size and distinctive coloration, the Colombian Giant Tarantula is known for its bold red or orange leg segments. These vibrant colors act as a warning mechanism, deterring potential predators from approaching. This species also possesses venom, which it uses primarily for subduing its prey.
Face-sized Tarantula
Discovery in Sri Lanka
The Face-sized Tarantula, scientifically known as Poecilotheria rajaei, is a recently discovered spider species found in the forests of Sri Lanka. It gained attention due to its exceptional size, with a leg span that can rival the size of a human face. Not only is it remarkable in terms of its sheer size, but it is also a visually striking spider with unique coloration and patterns.
Ongoing Scientific Studies
Since its discovery, the Face-sized Tarantula has become the focus of ongoing scientific studies. Researchers are particularly interested in studying its behavior, habitat, and identifying potential threats to its survival. The limited knowledge surrounding this species has prompted conservation efforts aimed at protecting its natural habitat.
Description
The Face-sized Tarantula has a distinct appearance, with a stocky body covered in dense black and yellow hairs. This coloration and pattern help it blend in with its surroundings, providing camouflage and enabling it to surprise its unsuspecting prey.
Habitat and Distribution
The Face-sized Tarantula is native to the forests of northern Sri Lanka. It prefers to reside in tree trunks, creating elaborate silk-lined burrows. These burrows are crucial for the spider’s survival as they provide protection from predators and a safe place to ambush prey.
King Baboon Spider
Description
The King Baboon Spider, scientifically known as Pterinochilus murinus, is a tarantula species endemic to East Africa. It is highly sought after by enthusiasts due to its impressive size and distinctive appearance. These spiders have a dark-colored body covered in golden hairs, giving them an eye-catching and regal look.
Leg Span
King Baboon Spiders can have a leg span of up to 8 inches (20 centimeters). Their long and thick legs are equipped with sharp claws, enabling them to climb and grasp objects with ease.
Habitat and Distribution
These spiders are primarily found in the woodlands and savannas of East Africa, including countries such as Kenya and Tanzania. They reside in burrows or crevices, constructing silk-lined tunnels that serve as their homes. The King Baboon Spider prefers warmer climates and is adept at tolerating periods of dryness.
Behavior and Diet
King Baboon Spiders are known for their defensive behavior and aggressive nature. When threatened, they will raise their front legs and expose their large fangs, displaying a warning posture. Their diet consists of a variety of insects, small vertebrates, and even other spiders. These tarantulas actively hunt and immobilize their prey with venomous bites.
Cerbalus Aravaensis
Description
Cerbalus Aravaensis, or the Arava Valley Spider, is a type of huntsman spider found in the Middle East, specifically in the Arava Valley region. It is widely known for its large size and distinctive appearance. These spiders have a flattened body covered in dense brown hairs, making them well-camouflaged in their natural habitat.
Leg Span
With a leg span of up to 5.5 inches (14 centimeters), Cerbalus Aravaensis ranks among the larger species of huntsman spiders. Its long legs and streamlined body allow it to maneuver with agility and speed.
Habitat and Distribution
The Arava Valley Spider is endemic to the Arava Valley region, spanning across parts of Israel, Jordan, and Palestine. It resides in arid habitats with sparse vegetation and rocky terrain. The spider’s ability to blend into its surroundings helps it avoid detection by predators and prey.
Behavior and Diet
Cerbalus Aravaensis is a nocturnal hunter, preying primarily on insects and other invertebrates. It is known for its exceptional ability to move swiftly, thanks to its long legs. Like other huntsman spiders, it uses stealth and ambush tactics to capture its prey. Despite its large size, it poses no significant threat to humans, with its venom being relatively mild.