Tliltocatl albopilosus Nicaraguan (Curly hair)

Tliltocatl albopilosus (Curly Hair Tarantula)

Origin: Central America — primarily Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.

Size: 5–6 inches (13–15 cm) leg span.

Lifespan: Females 15–20 years, males 5–7 years.

Lifestyle: Terrestrial and opportunistic burrower; often creates shallow burrows or uses natural hides.

Appearance: Dark brown to black body covered in long, distinctive curly hairs that range from golden-brown to tan, giving this tarantula its characteristic “curly” look.

Temperament: Very calm, docile, and slow-moving, making it one of the best beginner tarantulas. May flick urticating hairs if disturbed but is generally tolerant.

Care & Habitat:

Enclosure: Terrestrial setup with plenty of floor space, a hide, and 4–5 inches of substrate for digging.

Substrate: Coconut fiber, topsoil, or soil mix that retains some humidity.

Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C).

Humidity: 65–75%, with a shallow water dish; mostly dry substrate with occasional light misting.

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