Honduran Curly Hair Tarantula Care

Species: Brachypelma albopilosum
Common Names: Honduran Curly Hair Tarantula, Curly Hair, Curly

The Honduran Curly Hair Tarantula (Brachypelma albopilosum) is a New World terrestrial species native to Central America, particularly Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. It lives in tropical forest regions where it burrows in soft, moist soil or occupies natural hides under logs and stones.

This species is instantly recognizable for its dense covering of long, curled golden hairs that give it a fluffy, almost “fuzzy” appearance — earning it the nickname Curly Hair. Calm, hardy, and tolerant of a range of conditions, it’s one of the most forgiving species for new keepers.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Brachypelma albopilosum
  • Common Names: Honduran Curly Hair Tarantula, Curly Hair
  • Origin: Central America (Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica)
  • Adult Size: 12–15 cm (5–6 inches) leg span
  • Lifespan: Females 20–25 years; Males 7–10 years
  • Temperament: Exceptionally calm and docile
  • Experience Level: Beginner

Appearance

The Curly Hair is one of the most distinctive-looking tarantulas due to its coat of long, curling bristles that can appear bronze, gold, or tan under light.

  • Body: Dark brown to black base color
  • Hairs: Long, fine, and slightly curled with golden tips
  • Carapace: Dark brown with a subtle metallic sheen
  • Overall effect: A “fluffy,” almost mammalian look

While not as brightly colored as some Brachypelma species, its unique coat and calm personality make it a favorite for both display and handling.

Housing & Enclosure

As a terrestrial burrower, B. albopilosum prefers a stable, semi-humid environment with deep substrate for digging.

Recommended enclosure sizes:

  • Juveniles: 20 × 20 × 20 cm
  • Adults: 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 inches)

Setup guidelines:

  • Substrate depth: 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) for burrowing
  • Include a hide (cork bark, half log, or burrow starter)
  • Provide a shallow water dish
  • Ensure moderate ventilation

This species tends to rearrange its enclosure, so expect some webbing and substrate movement — a sign of a healthy and active tarantula.

Substrate & Decoration

Recommended substrate:

  • Mix of coco fiber, topsoil, and vermiculite
  • Keep slightly damp, not wet

Decoration ideas:

  • Cork bark, small rocks, artificial plants
  • Tropical forest-style layout

Maintain a natural look — this species enjoys digging and will modify its home frequently.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature: 23–27°C (74–80°F)
  • Humidity: 65–75%

Keep the substrate slightly moist in one area while allowing the rest to dry out. Good airflow helps prevent mold or mites.

Mist one corner occasionally, but avoid soaking the entire enclosure.

Feeding & Water

Feeding schedule:

  • Slings: Every 5–6 days
  • Juveniles: Every 7–10 days
  • Adults: Every 10–14 days

Diet:

  • Crickets, dubia roaches, or mealworms
  • Avoid overfeeding — this species gains weight easily

Always provide a clean water dish with fresh water.

Behavior & Temperament

The Curly Hair is one of the most docile tarantulas available, rarely showing aggression and often remaining calm even during enclosure maintenance.

Behavioral traits:

  • Gentle and tolerant of disturbance
  • Seldom flicks hairs
  • Slow-moving and deliberate
  • Loves to burrow and rearrange substrate

These qualities make it one of the best species for new keepers or educational settings.

Handling

Few tarantulas are as handleable as B. albopilosum. It generally tolerates gentle handling well, but care should always be taken to prevent falls.

Handling tips:

  • Use calm, slow movements
  • Handle close to a soft surface
  • Avoid frequent handling during pre-molt

Even the calmest tarantula can flick hairs if startled, so treat every interaction with care.

Molting

B. albopilosum is slow-growing, but molts consistently and predictably throughout its life.

Pre-molt signs:

  • Dull coloration
  • Refusal to eat
  • Sealing itself in its burrow
  • Webbing over the entrance

After molting, wait 7–10 days before feeding juveniles, and 10–14 days for adults.

Common Health Issues

This is a hardy and forgiving species with few problems if basic conditions are met.

  • Dehydration: Provide constant water
  • Mold/fungus: Avoid excessive humidity
  • Falls: Keep enclosure height low

Regular maintenance and observation go a long way in keeping your Curly Hair healthy.

Breeding (Overview)

Breeding B. albopilosum is straightforward and rewarding:

  • Introduce a mature male to a receptive female carefully
  • The female typically lays 200–400 eggs within 6–8 weeks
  • Spiderlings grow steadily and are easy to raise

This species breeds readily in captivity and is one of the most common CB (captive-bred) tarantulas worldwide.

Quick Care Checklist

  • Type: Terrestrial burrower
  • Enclosure: 30 × 30 × 30 cm
  • Substrate: Moist coco/soil mix (10–15 cm)
  • Temperature: 23–27°C
  • Humidity: 65–75%
  • Feeding: Crickets/roaches every 10–14 days
  • Handling: Very calm and handleable

Final Thoughts

The Honduran Curly Hair Tarantula (Brachypelma albopilosum) is one of the best tarantulas a keeper can own — gentle, hardy, long-lived, and full of personality.

Its curly, golden coat makes it instantly recognizable, while its forgiving nature makes it perfect for beginners or anyone who enjoys observing calm, natural behaviors.

A classic species in the hobby and a shining example of Brachypelma’s beauty and charm.

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