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Beauty, gentleness and slow reproduction may have gotten this spider into trouble. Countless wild animals have been harvested by the pet trade, with growing concern by conservationists. This species is now protected by a multinational treaty, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

front view of a red kneed tarantula

Did You Know?

Tarantulas have a unique claim to fame - they were named after a high-energy Italian dance called the tarantella, in which the frenzied movements involved were thought to be the result of, or a cure for, the bite of a spider.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Euathlus smithi

Range:
Western Mexico

Habitat:
Semi-arid scrubland

Length:
5 to 6 inches

Lifespan:
Male: 1 yr, Female: More than 20 yrs

Zoo Location:
World of the Insect

Diet:
Insects, small lizards and rodents

Risk Status:
Species at Risk (IUCN—Lower risk/near threatened)