Also known as the True Red Leg Tarantula, Mexican Painted Tarantula, or Orange Knee Tarantula, the Mexican Red Leg Tarantula is one of the most popular spiders kept as pets. In fact, due to their popularity, their numbers have been threatened with extinction in the wild.

Mexican Red Legs are suitable starter tarantulas because they have such non-aggressive personalities when compared to other tarantula species. They are described as docile and calm. Their bite has mild venom, which is said to be of low-toxicity. Though they rarely bite, they should not be handled because they can release the hairs on their body, which can feel uncomfortable to humans. Their captive habitats should mimic their natural habitats as closely as possible. For housing, use a fairly large 12x12x12 inch tank. Keep the humidity levels between 65 and 70 percent. Including a retreat, such as a piece of cork bark or a flowerpot, for hiding is strongly recommended. For substrate, use at least 2 inches of peat/vermiculite mix. Give them an open water dish, and for food, they will eat most anything that is insect-like!

The Mexican Red Leg Tarantula has little red hairs on its legs and is therefore true to his name. Their bodies are usually dark reddish brown with unique red hairs. A black triangle is seen on the carapace. They can get as large as five inches, including their leg span.

The Mexican Red Leg Tarantula is found in the semi desert scrublands of Mexico and Panama.

The Mexican Red Leg Tarantula requires humidity to survive. While recommended humidity levels are between 65 and 70 percent, levels should never be allowed to fall below 55%.

There is currently no special breeding information in our databases for this animal. To submit breeding / propagation information that is specific to this animal please click here.