Is the Goliath Birdeater subject to CITES?

No, the Goliath Birdeater is not subject to CITES.

Can beginners keep a Goliath Birdeater?

It's classified as suitable for advanced keepers, so it isn't recommended as a first tarantula. Gaining experience with an easier species first is a good idea before considering this one.

How large does it grow?

As an adult, it reaches a leg span of 25 to 30 cm, making it one of the largest tarantulas in the world.

What is its lifespan?

Its lifespan is estimated at 15 to 25 years, so it's a long-term companion. It's worth thinking through a long-term care plan before adoption.

It's fed insects and mice. Appetite tends to fluctuate, and it may eat little around molting periods.

Goliath Birdeater

The Goliath Birdeater is one of the world's largest tarantulas, with a leg span reaching 25 to 30 cm. Its stocky body and thick legs give it a presence unlike almost any other pet. Despite its intimidating size, it tends to move at a deliberate pace, and feeding is simple — insects and mice. With a lifespan of 15 to 25 years, it's a long-term companion for keepers ready for the commitment. As a large venomous species, it calls for solid prior experience and is best suited to advanced keepers.

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Goliath Birdeater key facts

Care level: Advanced
Lifespan: 15-25 years
Size: Leg span 25-30cm
Temperature: 24〜28℃
Diet: Insects, Mice
Temperature: Maintain 24-28°C
Housing: Large case with moist substrate
Feeding: Feed large insects and pinky mice
Notes: Flicks urticating hairs, handle carefully. Venomous

TraitsGoliathLargest tarantula30cmVenomous spider

About Goliath Birdeater

Meet the Goliath Birdeater, one of the world's largest tarantulas — leg span 25 to 30 cm, lifespan 15 to 25 years. A guide for advanced keepers considering this striking species.

7 things to know before welcoming a Goliath Birdeater

1Best Suited to Advanced Keepers
The Goliath Birdeater is considered a difficult species to keep and isn't recommended as a first tarantula. Prior knowledge of large venomous spiders and the composure to handle them calmly are important before bringing one home.
2An Imposing Adult Size
As an adult, this species reaches a leg span of 25 to 30 cm. Choose an enclosure with generous floor space and height from the start, planning ahead for its full-grown size.
3A Long-Term Commitment
With a lifespan of 15 to 25 years, this is a long-term commitment worth thinking through carefully before adoption. Females in particular tend toward the longer end of that range.
4A Large Venomous Species
As a venomous tarantula, care should be handled calmly with tools rather than bare hands. If a bite occurs or you notice anything unusual, consult a specialist promptly.
5Simple Feeding Habits
Its diet consists of insects and mice. It's normal to see cycles of strong appetite followed by periods of little to no eating, especially around molting.
6Molting Is a Critical Time
As it grows, it molts periodically, and this is a especially delicate time. When signs of an upcoming molt appear, avoid disturbing it and keep the environment quiet.
7Prepare the Enclosure Before Arrival
Before bringing one home, set up an enclosure, substrate, hide, and temperature/humidity controls sized for its eventual adult size. Having everything ready in advance reduces stress on the animal.

Frequently asked questions about Goliath Birdeater

Q.Is the Goliath Birdeater subject to CITES?: A.No, the Goliath Birdeater is not subject to CITES.
Q.Can beginners keep a Goliath Birdeater?: A.It's classified as suitable for advanced keepers, so it isn't recommended as a first tarantula. Gaining experience with an easier species first is a good idea before considering this one.
Q.How large does it grow?: A.As an adult, it reaches a leg span of 25 to 30 cm, making it one of the largest tarantulas in the world.
Q.What is its lifespan?: A.Its lifespan is estimated at 15 to 25 years, so it's a long-term companion. It's worth thinking through a long-term care plan before adoption.
Q.What does it eat?: A.It's fed insects and mice. Appetite tends to fluctuate, and it may eat little around molting periods.