Red-Kneed Tarantula vs. Wandering Spider

Attribute	Red-Kneed Tarantula	Wandering Spider
Species	Brachypelma smithi	Various species in the family Ctenidae
Size	Up to 6 inches	Varies depending on species
Coloration	Black with red-orange knees	Varies depending on species
Habitat	Desert scrubland in Mexico	Tropical regions worldwide
Behavior	Docile and slow-moving	Agile and fast-moving

Physical Attributes

The Red-Kneed Tarantula, scientifically known as Brachypelma smithi, is a large spider with a leg span of up to 6 inches. It has a distinctive red-orange color on its knees, which gives it its name. This tarantula species has a robust body covered in fine hairs, making it appear fuzzy. In contrast, the Wandering Spider, also known as Phoneutria, is a sleek and agile spider with a leg span of around 4 inches. It has a brown or gray body with darker markings for camouflage in its natural habitat.

Behavior

Red-Kneed Tarantulas are known for their docile nature, making them popular as pets among spider enthusiasts. They are generally slow-moving and prefer to stay in their burrows or hide in crevices during the day. When threatened, they may raise their front legs in a defensive posture or flick urticating hairs as a defense mechanism. On the other hand, Wandering Spiders are highly active and fast-moving predators. They do not build webs to catch prey but instead hunt by actively seeking out insects and other small animals. Wandering Spiders are known for their potent venom, which can be dangerous to humans if bitten.

Habitat

Red-Kneed Tarantulas are native to the deserts of Mexico and are often found in scrublands or grasslands. They prefer dry and warm climates, making their burrows in sandy soil or under rocks. These tarantulas are nocturnal, coming out at night to hunt for prey. In contrast, Wandering Spiders are found in tropical regions of South America, where they inhabit forests, caves, and human dwellings. They are adaptable to various environments and can be found in both urban and rural areas.

Reproduction

Red-Kneed Tarantulas reproduce sexually, with the male performing a courtship dance to attract the female. If successful, the male deposits a sperm sac for the female to fertilize her eggs. The female then lays eggs in a silk cocoon and guards them until they hatch. The young tarantulas go through several molts before reaching maturity. Wandering Spiders also reproduce sexually, with the male using pheromones to attract a female mate. After mating, the female lays eggs in a silk sac and guards them until they hatch. The spiderlings then disperse to start their own lives.

Feeding Habits

Red-Kneed Tarantulas are carnivorous and primarily feed on insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, and beetles. They use their fangs to inject venom into their prey, paralyzing them before consuming them. These tarantulas may also feed on small vertebrates like lizards or mice if the opportunity arises. Wandering Spiders have a diverse diet that includes insects, small birds, and even small mammals. They are known for their aggressive hunting behavior and will actively pursue prey to catch and subdue them with their venomous bite.