The goliath birdeater (Theraphosa blondi) is a tarantula, and is (arguably) the largest spider in the world. Native to the rain forest regions of northern South America, these spiders have up to a 30 centimetre long leg span (fully extended) and can weigh over a 120 grams. Wild goliath birdeaters are a deep burrowing species, found commonly in marshy or swampy areas.

Female birdeaters mature in 2.5-3 years, and have an average life span of 6 to 14 years. Males die soon after maturity, and have a lifespan of 3 to 6 years. Colours range from dark to light brown, with faint markings on the legs. They have hair on the body, abdomen, and legs. The female lays anywhere from 100 to 400 eggs, which will hatch into spiderlings within two months.

They are aggressive and may make a hissing noise when disturbed. This noise is called stridulation, and is produced when the birdeater rubs the bristles on its legs together. Birdeaters can defend themselves by biting or by kicking its barbed hairs toward its perceived assailant. These hairs can be severely irritating to the skin and lungs, and have reported to feel like shards of fiberglass. The Goliath Birdeater, like all tarantulas, has fangs large enough to break the skin of a human (1-2.5 cm). However, its venom is relatively non-toxic; the bite will only cause mild discomfort and swelling for a few hours.

Despite its name, the Goliath Birdeater does not normally eat birds. Rather, it eats mostly invertebrates such as crickets, mealworms and moths, and also small vertebrates such as mice and lizards. The Goliath Birdeater is one of the few tarantulas which can capture and eat a full-grown mouse.

External links

• Picture of a goliath birdeater consuming its prey