
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Theraphosa blondi
World's largest tarantula. Overwhelming size reaching 30cm leg span. Venomous spider.
The Goliath birdeater is a very large spider that belongs to the tarantula family Theraphosidae. Found in northern South America, it is the largest spider in the world by mass and body length, and second to the giant huntsman spider by leg span. It is also considerably longer than the largest known prehistoric spider, Mongolarachne, that had a body length of 2.46 centimeters (0.97 in). It is also called the Goliath tarantula or Goliath bird-eating spider; the practice of calling theraphosids "bird-eating" derives from an early 18th-century copper engraving by Maria Sibylla Merian that shows one eating a hummingbird. Despite the spider's name, it rarely preys on birds.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Goliath Birdeater lives 15-25 years.
The Goliath Birdeater grows to Leg span 25-30cm.
Origin
northern South America
Lifespan
15-25 years
Size
Leg span 25-30cm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Accepted name: Theraphosa blondi (Latreille, 1804)
Synonyms: Mygale blondii Latreille, 1804
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Theraphosa blondi (Theraphosidae, Goliath bird-eater). CITES-listed tarantulas are limited to Brachypelma, Aphonopelma, Poecilotheria, and similar genera; this species is not listed.
Sources: CITES Appendix (checklist.cites.org)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Insects, Mice
Maintain 24-28°C
Large case with moist substrate
Feed large insects and pinky mice
Flicks urticating hairs, handle carefully. Venomous
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The average lifespan of Goliath Birdeater is 15-25 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Goliath Birdeater typically reaches Leg span 25-30cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Goliath Birdeater feeds on: Insects, Mice. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Goliath Birdeater varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026