Lasiodora parahybana - Salmon pink birdeater

Photo provided by Chadwick family inverts on instagram

1. Species Overview
    • Native Habitat: Lasiodora parahybana is a terrestrial tarantula native to Brazil. In the wild, these impressive spiders inhabit the rainforest floor where soft, moist soils allow natural burrowing and help provide camouflage among leaf litter.
    • Size & Appearance: One of the largest tarantula species, adults can reach a diagonal leg span of approximately 25 cm. Their robust build and natural defense mechanisms—including urticating hairs—make them a species best observed rather than handled.

2. Enclosure Recommendations
    • Adult Enclosure Size: For an adult, an enclosure measuring approximately 20 cm in height, 30 cm in width, and 45 cm in depth is recommended.
    • Substrate: Provide at least 15 cm of substrate to encourage natural burrowing behavior, replicating the soft, damp conditions of the rainforest floor.
    • Decor & Hiding Places:
     – Recommended: Use curved cork bark pieces as hides. These secure retreats simulate the natural crevices found in the tarantula’s native environment and offer a safe refuge.
     – Not Recommended: Avoid rock decor, as rocks can be hazardous and may cause injury or even death if they shift or fall.

3. Environmental Conditions
    • Humidity: Maintain a humidity level between 70% and 80%—mirroring the humid rainforest floor where these tarantulas live.
     – Monthly Maintenance: Overflow the water dish once a month to help maintain stable humidity levels within the enclosure.
    • Temperature: Aim for an ambient temperature between 20°C and 24°C. Typically, the room temperature of a house is sufficient for this species. If an external heating source is required, use a heat mat on a thermostat attached to the exterior side of the enclosure rather than underneath, ensuring even and safe temperature regulation.

4. Hydration
    • Fresh Water: Provide a shallow water dish filled with fresh water that is available at all times. Regular cleaning and refilling of the dish will keep the water safe for your tarantula.

5. Handling & Safety
    • Handling: Handling is not recommended. Lasiodora parahybana can be defensive and possesses irritating urticating hairs which can cause harm. It is best to observe these magnificent creatures from a safe distance.

By following these guidelines—including proper enclosure size, careful substrate depth for burrowing, the use of curved cork bark hides, and attentive monitoring of temperature and humidity—you can create a secure, naturalistic environment for your Lasiodora parahybana. This setup ensures the tarantula thrives while you safely enjoy observing one of nature’s most remarkable species.