Rehousing Defensive Tarantulas Safely

Step-by-Step Guide for High-Risk Species

Introduction

Rehousing tarantulas can be stressful — especially when dealing with fast, defensive, or venomous species. Whether it’s an Old World arboreal like Poecilotheria metallica or a skittish fossorial like Haplopelma lividum, proper preparation is crucial for your safety and the tarantula’s well-being.

This guide walks you through safe, step-by-step rehousing techniques for defensive tarantulas, ensuring you minimize stress, avoid escape, and prevent bites.

When to Rehouse a Tarantula

You may need to rehouse your tarantula when:

  • It’s outgrown its current enclosure
  • The substrate or setup is no longer suitable
  • You’re upgrading to a permanent adult home
  • Mold, mites, or pests require a full clean-out
  • You’re moving the tarantula into a display tank

Understanding the Risks

Defensive and Old World tarantulas can pose risks during rehousing due to:

  • Extreme speed and unpredictable movements
  • Lack of urticating hairs (so they bite as a first defense)
  • Potent venom (especially from Old World species)
  • Escape attempts or bolting if startled

While bites are rare, they can happen if you’re unprepared. This makes rehousing the most dangerous moment in tarantula keeping.

Tools & Supplies You’ll Need

Prepare these tools before starting:

✅ Catch cup (clear plastic cup with soft edges)
✅ Long tongs or tweezers
✅ Paintbrush or soft tool (for gentle coaxing)
✅ New enclosure (fully set up and ready)
✅ Lid for current enclosure
✅ Work surface (clear, flat table or floor area)
✅ Bright lighting
✅ Gloves and long sleeves (optional but protective)
✅ Duct tape or paper to block holes in case of bolt
✅ Calm environment — no pets, loud noise, or distractions

Step-by-Step: How to Safely Rehouse a Defensive Tarantula

1. Prepare the New Enclosure First

  • Ensure the new habitat is fully set up
  • Double-check for ventilation, secure latches, and proper substrate
  • Keep it close by for quick transfer

2. Choose the Right Time

  • Daytime is ideal, as tarantulas are generally less active
  • Never rehouse during a molt or pre-molt stage
  • Avoid doing it under stress or in a rush

3. Control the Environment

  • Clear your space completely
  • Block off any escape gaps or cracks in the room
  • Make sure the room door is closed

4. Coax, Don’t Force

  • Gently encourage the tarantula to walk into a catch cup using a soft brush or tongs
  • Never poke or rush — fast movements can trigger a threat response
  • If the tarantula bolts, remain still and calm. Wait for it to settle

5. Transfer Carefully

  • Once in the catch cup, cover it with the lid
  • Position it inside the new enclosure
  • Tilt the cup slowly and let the tarantula exit at its own pace
  • Close the enclosure securely and double-check all locks

6. Avoid Interaction for a Few Days

  • Let the tarantula acclimate to its new space
  • Don’t feed or disturb it for 3–5 days
  • Expect some burrowing or webbing as it settles in

Tips for Specific Tarantula Types

🕷️ Arboreal Tarantulas (e.g., Poecilotheria, Stromatopelma)

  • Use vertical catch cups or coax them upward
  • Provide anchor points in the new setup immediately
  • Be ready for fast, upward bolting

🕷️ Fossorial Tarantulas (e.g., Haplopelma, Chilobrachys)

  • Digging species often refuse to leave their burrows
  • You may need to remove all substrate or cut away a deli cup
  • Be extremely cautious — these are often the fastest and most defensive

🕷️ Heavy Webbers (e.g., Monocentropus balfouri)

  • Don’t destroy all the webbing if you can avoid it
  • Transfer some of their old web to reduce stress in the new enclosure

What to Avoid

❌ Never grab or poke your tarantula
❌ Avoid open-top containers during transfer
❌ Don’t rehouse with others in the room
❌ Don’t attempt if you’re tired or emotionally stressed
❌ Never attempt to handle an Old World species during rehousing

Emergency Protocol

If the tarantula escapes:

  • Remain calm
  • Don’t chase — wait for it to stop moving
  • Use a catch cup and slow movements
  • Turn off lights to reduce activity
  • Seal the room and check corners, curtains, under furniture
  • Never attempt to handle the spider by hand

Final Thoughts

Rehousing defensive tarantulas doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right tools, prep, and calm mindset, it can be smooth and stress-free — for both you and your tarantula.

Remember: It’s not about rushing. It’s about respecting the animal’s space, anticipating its behavior, and working methodically. Patience and planning are your best tools.

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