Defining Characteristics:

• Used in traditional Mayan medicine.
• An established exotic species in Florida.
• Wild burrows may extend almost 45 cm (about 18 inches!)

Name: Tliltocatl vagans, or the Red Rump tarantula. This spider was recently reclassified to the genus Tliltocatl from Brachypelma. The specific epithet vagans translates to “wandering”. Its common name references the spider’s characteristic red hairs on its abdomen.

Enclosure Size & Setup: A 10 gallon terrarium works well for an adult. Include at least 4 inches of substrate and a hide for the tarantula to keep refuge in. Coco cradle is a great option for this species.

This tarantula is likely to burrow in the terrarium.

Temperature Range (°F): Comfortable range for them is between 70-85°, temperatures consistently 5 or more degrees outside of this range should be avoided for long term safety of the spider.

Humidity: 65-80%

Size: At time of sale specimens have at least a 1/2 inch diagonal leg span. They can grow up to a 6.5 inch diagonal leg span.

Age: Males live up to 8 years while females can live up to 20 years. The male reaches sexual maturity at 4-5 years, and the females do so at 6-7 years.

Feeding: Offer 4-5 D. hydei fruit flies once per week. As the tarantula grows, so should its prey. Prey items should be no larger than the size of the spider’s abdomen. Remove uneaten prey items as these may endanger the spider during molting. 

Slings should be offered food every 4-7 days, with larger specimens often going 2 weeks or more between feedings.

Never attempt to feed a freshly molted tarantula less than a week after their molt to prevent injury to the spider.

Sexing: To identify a male or female before it has reached sexual maturity, you will need to examine its cast skin. Females will have a folded area in the abdominal region which will eventually connect to her spermatheca when she is mature. 

Due to their age, Red Rump tarantulas sold by Josh's Frogs are sold as unsexed animals.

Coloration/Patterning: Covered in a fine black velvet with striking red hairs coating the abdomen.

Social Behavior: This is a solitary species and attempts to cohabitate will likely result in cannibalism.

Breeding: When breeding Red Rumps, it is best to plan it for about one month after the female molts. If a molt follows the pairing before eggs can be laid, the reproductive material contributed by the male will be discarded in the process.

The female should also be well fed prior to the pairing. If successful the female will eventually construct an egg sac which should be removed about four weeks after for incubation.

Natural Range: Mexico and other parts of Central America.

History in the Hobby: Red Rumps have been established as an exotic species in Florida due to either accidental or intentional releases by pet owners.

Links of Interest:

• Arachnoboards: a community of spider enthusiasts that will be able to or have already answered almost any question you can think of with regards to tarantulas.

http://arachnoboards.com/

Still not sure if the Red Rump tarantula from Josh's Frogs is the right pet bug for you? Read the reviews below and see what other customers are saying!