Spiders can make fascinating pets. Here are a few steps to get you started keeping spiders.
Step 1: Catch a Spider
Spiders are all around us, indoors and out, so they’re not hard to find. Some species can bite and a few are venomous. Before heading out, learn about dangerous spiders in your area. Fear not, it’s easy to safely catch a spider using a small jar. Gently coax it into the jar using the lid. Remember to keep only one spider per jar to avoid any unexpected surprises!
Step 2: Prepare a Cage
Large spiders do well in the inexpensive plastic terrariums available from pet stores. Smaller ones can be kept in jars or plastic containers with air holes drilled into the lid or sides. To make a comfortable environment for your spider, use potting soil as the cage bottom. Add sticks, dead leaves, or even artificial plants to provide structure for hiding, climbing, and webbing.
Step 3: Water
Spiders need water too! Depending on the size of your spider, you can use anything from a plastic bottle cap to a small bowl as a water dish. Spiders can also drink water sprayed on their webbing, but it’s important to never allow the cage to become damp.
Step 4: Feeding
Offer insect prey to your spider once or twice a week. You can find crickets at pet shops, or if you prefer, you can collect insects outdoors as long as no insecticides have been sprayed in the area. Keep your spider well-fed and happy!
Step 5: Observing
Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and observe your new eight-legged friend. Watch carefully and take notes on its behavior. You won’t believe the fascinating things that happen in a spider’s web until you’ve experienced it yourself!
Preferred Pets
Not all spiders do well in captivity. Here are a few spider species that make great pets.
- Tarantulas: With some species exceeding 10 inches in legspan, tarantulas are by far the most popular pet spiders and can be easily found in pet stores.
- Wolf Spiders: These spiders can grow to be more than three inches in legspan. Larger specimens do best in terrariums with lots of floor space.
- Jumping Spiders: Don’t be fooled by their small size, these spiders have impressive jumping abilities. Many species are brightly colored and can be comfortably kept in jars.
- Fishing Spiders: In captivity, these large and fast spiders appreciate vertically arranged pieces of bark for climbing. Use caution when capturing them!
- Grass Spiders: These spiders build funnel-shaped webs in grass, bushes, and on buildings. In captivity, they will build extensive webs inside their cage, allowing you to witness their intricate web-building skills.
Ready to learn more? Visit HOT NEWS DAY to see photos of a spider expert’s seven favorite spiders.
Keeping spiders as pets can be a thrilling and educational experience. By following these steps and selecting the right spider species, you’ll create a safe and stimulating home for your new creepy-crawly companion. Embrace the world of spiders and discover the wonders within their webs!
Remember, if you have any concerns or questions about keeping spiders as pets, always consult with experts who can provide you with the best advice for your specific spider species. Enjoy your new arachnid adventure!
