Aphonopelma chalcodes (Arizona blonde)

Aphonopelma chalcodes (Arizona Blonde Tarantula)

Origin: Southwestern United States — primarily Arizona and New Mexico.

Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) leg span.

Lifespan: Females 20–25 years, males 5–10 years.

Lifestyle: Terrestrial and fossorial; creates burrows in dry desert soils and often remains near the entrance.

Appearance: Females are light tan to golden blonde, especially on the carapace and legs, with darker abdomens. Males are darker overall with longer legs, appearing more slender.

Temperament: Very calm and docile, making it one of the best beginner tarantulas. Rarely flicks hairs or shows aggression.

Care & Habitat:

Enclosure: Terrestrial desert-style setup with 4–5 inches of dry substrate and a hide.

Substrate: Dry soil, sand/soil mix, or coconut fiber kept mostly dry.

Temperature: 70–78°F (21–26°C).

Humidity: 50–60%, with a small water dish. Avoid misting, as this is a desert species.

Diet: Crickets, roaches, and mealworms weekly; juveniles more often.