Although the species of spiders in Florida are countless, not all of them are harmless. In fact, some of them are most likely to bite humans or are species that most people are typically afraid of and must identify for safety reasons.
Many of these spiders live in gardens or in a pile of firewood, but occasionally some will make their way into homes. It is important to distinguish between these spiders in case one of them bites you by knowing descriptions and looking at pictures of spiders.
Florida may not seem like prime tarantula territory, but this sunny state is actually home to several species of these big, hairy spiders Tarantulas tend to reside in more remote areas and avoid heavily populated regions, but curious Floridians still wonder – what types of tarantulas can you find in Florida? Are they dangerous? And what should you do if you encounter one? This in-depth guide will uncover everything you need to know about tarantulas in the Sunshine State
Native Tarantula Species in Florida
While tarantulas are more closely associated with deserts and grasslands out west, there are a surprising number of tarantula species native to Florida. Here are a few you may encounter:
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Florida Blue Tarantula – Also called the Florida Sapphire this vibrant blue species inhabits southern Florida. It has a painful but not dangerous bite.
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Oak Ridge Tarantula – Found in central Florida oak forests this dark brown tarantula with reddish hairs is not aggressive toward humans.
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Florida Brown Tarantula – As the name suggests, this brown species lives throughout the state. It is generally docile if left undisturbed.
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Mexican Redrump Tarantula – Though not native, this Mexican species has established itself in South Florida. It has irritating urticating hairs but is not dangerous.
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Florida Golden Chestnut Tarantula – Only one female of this species has been documented in the Florida Keys. Little is known about it.
Overall, 11-14 tarantula species are thought to inhabit Florida either natively or introduced. They tend to occupy natural habitats like forests and grasslands rather than populated areas.
Habitats and Behaviors
Tarantulas residing in Florida have adapted to various habitats within the state, including:
- Sandy areas
- Pine forests
- Swamp edges
- Overgrown areas near canals and citrus groves
These solitary spiders live in burrows, emerging at night to hunt prey like insects, small reptiles, and amphibians using their venom. Despite their scary looks, Florida’s tarantulas are shy and non-aggressive if undisturbed. Interestingly, the males will travel far in search of a mate.
Are Florida Tarantulas Dangerous?
Rest assured, Florida’s tarantulas pose minimal risk to humans. Their venom is designed to paralyze small prey rather than self-defense.
Bites may cause:
- Mild swelling, redness, and pain at the bite site
- Muscle spasms, nausea, difficulty breathing (less common, depending on species)
See a doctor if bitten by an unknown species or if symptoms persist/worsen.
Allergic reactions are rare but may cause severe symptoms requiring prompt treatment. Exercise caution around tarantulas if you have other spider/insect venom allergies.
What To Do If You See One
Tarantulas prefer to retreat than confront. If you encounter one in or near your home:
- Stay calm and keep your distance
- Capture it in an open container using stiff paper to trap it inside
- Release the tarantula outdoors far from your home
Bites typically occur from accidental contact, so don’t handle tarantulas. Simply remove them safely as described.
Preventing Home Encounters
To discourage lost tarantulas from entering your home, try these tips:
- Eliminate clutter inside and outside
- Seal cracks and openings
- Use peppermint, eucalyptus, or citrus oils as repellents
- Turn off outdoor lights at night
- Vacuum and clean thoroughly, especially in hidden areas
While tarantulas in Florida tend to reside in remote natural areas, homeowners may encounter the occasional lost spider seeking shelter or a mate. Rest assured these tarantulas pose little danger and can be safely captured and released. With proper identification and precautions, Floridians can coexist peacefully with these intriguing creatures.
Tarantulas in Florida
The tarantulas in Florida today are not actually native to the area. Theyre actually rare in the state. Some people do keep them as pets and tarantulas can make their way into Florida as stowaways in cargo boxes. Their bodies can grow to 2 1/2 inches long, and their legs can be up to 7 inches long.
Tarantulas live in the brushy hillsides of the Florida terrain or they can convert an abandoned rodent hole into a habitat. Although tarantulas are venomous, their bite is typically mild for humans and the venom is not fatal. Many people are afraid of tarantulas, but such creatures are docile and rarely attack unless provoked.
There are two types of black widows in Florida: the northern black widow and the southern black widow.
The southern black widow is the most common with a shiny black body and a red hourglass pattern on its abdomen. It can be found anywhere in the state of Florida.
The northern black widow is very similar, but the red hourglass marking looks more like two separate triangles, and it has red spots down its back. The northern black widow is only found in the Florida Panhandle. Both types are venomous, causing intense pain and muscle cramps with a bite.
Tarantulas taking over Central Florida
FAQ
Where do tarantulas live in Florida?
Red Rump Tarantulas can be found all over South Florida, particularly in citrus groves and overgrown areas near swamps and canals.
What is the largest spider in Florida?
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- Females can have a leg span of up to 5 inches.
- Males are significantly smaller, with a leg span of about an inch.
- They are known for their vibrant yellow and black markings.
- They build large, orb-shaped webs with golden silk.
- They are also known as Huntsman spiders or crab spiders.
- They are not aggressive and prefer to avoid confrontation with people.
- Females can have a leg span of up to 5 inches.
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- Florida wolf spiders can reach a size of around 1.5 inches.
- They are dark brown or black in color.
- They are generally identified by their large size.
- Florida wolf spiders can reach a size of around 1.5 inches.
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- Females are among the largest and most conspicuous web-building spiders, similar in size to the golden silk orb weaver.
- Males are tiny.
- Females are among the largest and most conspicuous web-building spiders, similar in size to the golden silk orb weaver.
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- They are known for their impressive size, typically reaching a leg span of 3 to 5 inches or more.
- Their bodies alone can measure about 1 inch in length.
- They are known for their impressive size, typically reaching a leg span of 3 to 5 inches or more.
What to do if you see a tarantula in your house?
If you encounter a tarantula inside your home, he recommends gently relocating it outside rather than killing it. “[The] Easiest way is to put one hand down in front of the tarantula then tap it lightly on the abdomen with your other hand. It’ll just move forward,” he advised.
Are there tarantulas in Florida?
One of which are tarantulas, though there are no native tarantulas in mainland Florida. It’s not entirely clear why that is, since Florida is an ideal habitat for many species of tarantula, but none ever seem to have settled here. However, there is one non-native tarantula species that’s taken up residence in the state.
Are tarantulas dangerous in Florida?
However, don’t let its beauty fool you – this tarantula has a venomous bite, although it is not considered dangerous to humans. The Oak Ridge Tarantula is another species that calls Florida home. It is predominantly found in the central part of the state, particularly in the oak forests of the Ocala National Forest.
What is a Florida brown tarantula?
The Florida Brown Tarantula, as its name suggests, is characterized by its brown coloration. This species can be found throughout Florida, including in residential areas and wooded regions. While the Florida Brown Tarantula may look intimidating, it is generally docile and poses little threat to humans.
Where did the tarantula come from?
Scientific name: Brachypelma aureoceps A somewhat mysterious species, this tarantula is known only from a single female specimen captured in the Florida keys. It’s even possible that that individual was imported from Mexico, but nobody knows for sure.
Do tarantulas live in citrus groves in Florida?
Citrus groves provide the dry habitat and food sources tarantulas need, making them potential, yet uncommon, habitats in Florida. In Florida, tarantulas are primarily found in South Florida’s wooded areas where they can create burrows for shelter.
Do tarantulas live in swamps?
Tarantulas are not fond of very wet environments, so swamps and canals are not ideal habitats for them. Citrus groves provide the dry habitat and food sources tarantulas need, making them potential, yet uncommon, habitats in Florida.