Tarantula Garden Spiders

Tarantulas are also large hairy garden spiders. In fact, some people call any large hairy or fuzzy spider a tarantula. Tarantulas are hairy with sharp bristles. The hairs are easily shed or can be rubbed off. Picking up a tarantula can result in irritation to the skin. If hands are not washed after handling a tarantula and eyes are touched, the sharp hairs can cause eye irritation that may require a trip to the doctor. Tarantulas are very sensitive to vibrations and hunt at night by feel. If cornered, the tarantula will make a purring sound and may rear up on its rearlegs. Even though tarantulas are scary looking to most people, most bites do not produce any significant poisoning symptoms. However, the bites can be quite painful because of the large size of the garden spider teeth. Cleanse your hands well with soap and water after handling a tarantula.

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