How to Choose the Right Spider for You

Your Guide to buying the best Spiders

Overview

This buying guide is designed to help you make the best decision when purchasing a spider. It covers the various types of spiders available, key considerations for selecting the right one for your needs, and other important care tips that will ensure you get the most out of your new pet. We’ll also discuss how to provide the proper environment for your spider, and what you should expect in terms of cost. With our advice, you can ensure that you get the perfect spider for your lifestyle.

Key features

  1. Type of Spider - Consider the type of spider you would like to purchase, such as an arachnid, huntsman, tarantula, or jumping spider.
  2. Size of the Spider - Different spiders come in different sizes, so be sure to consider the size of the particular type of spider you are looking for.
  3. Caring for a Spider - Research the particular spider species and make sure you can provide the necessary care it needs, such as food, environment, and shelter.
  4. Purchasing from a Reputable Source - Make sure you purchase your spider from a reputable source, such as a pet store or online retailer.
  5. Cost of Spider - Spiders can range in cost, so be sure to consider the budget you have in mind.

See the most popular Spiders on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability - Spiders are very strong and long-lasting, able to handle a heavy workload and remain in good condition.
  • Ease of use - Spiders can be very easy to use, with few moving parts and no complicated setup.
  • Versatility - Spiders are very versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks.
  • Cost-effectiveness - Spiders are typically quite affordable and have a low cost of ownership.
  • Safety - Spiders are usually very safe to use, as they have no exposed parts that could cause injury.

Cons

  • Appearance: Spiders can be off-putting to some people because of their appearance, with long legs, multiple eyes, and segmented bodies.
  • Venom: Spiders can have venom, and some species can be dangerous to humans. It is important to research a spider before purchasing to ensure it is not a venomous species.
  • Space Requirements: Spiders may require a large habitat or enclosure depending on the species, and some may require special equipment.
  • Feeding: Many types of spiders require live meals such as crickets or worms, which can be difficult to find and may require special equipment or knowledge.
  • Handling: Some species of spiders may be aggressive and require special handling techniques, which can be difficult to learn.
  • Life Span: The lifespan of spiders can vary depending on the species, but some may only live a few months.

Best alternatives

  1. Scorpions - Eight legged invertebrates that are closely related to spiders
  2. Centipedes - Invertebrates that are similar in appearance and behavior to spiders, but have more than eight legs
  3. Beetles - Insects that have hard outer wings and are often considered pests, but some can make good pets
  4. Cockroaches - Six-legged insects that are considered pests, but some people keep them as pets
  5. Moths - Winged insects that are closely related to butterflies, but are mostly active at night
  6. Tarantulas - Large hairy spiders that are popularly kept as pets, but can be dangerous if handled incorrectly

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Spider Cage/Tank/Aquarium/Terarium - A container that is specifically designed to house a spider and provide the necessary space, humidity, and temperature.
  • Substrate - A material often used to line the bottom of a spider's cage to provide a safe and comfortable living space for the spider.
  • Spider Food - Small insects such as crickets, mealworms, and waxworms are all popular food sources for spiders.
  • Humidity and Temperature Gauges - Essential tools to measure the humidity and temperature of a spider's cage, ensuring it stays in the ideal range for the spider.
  • Gel Water Dish - A dish filled with a special gel to provide humidity into the spider's cage.
  • Decorations and Hideouts - Decorations such as rocks, sticks, and other natural items are sometimes added to provide hiding spots and enrichment for the spider.

Common questions

  1. What types of spiders are available for purchase? Spiders that are commonly available for purchase include tarantula, wolf spiders, huntsman spiders, jumping spiders, and house spiders.
  2. What should I consider when buying a spider? When buying a spider, you should consider the size, temperament, climate needs, and the amount of maintenance the species requires.
  3. Are there any health hazards associated with owning a spider? Yes, some spiders can bite or sting if threatened or mishandled, and they can also harbor parasites or other health risks. It is important to research the species before purchasing to ensure you know how to handle and care for your spider properly.
  4. Where can I buy a spider? You can buy a spider from pet stores, online retailers, or breeders. It is important to buy from a reputable source in order to be sure you are receiving a healthy spider.
  5. How much does a spider cost? The cost of a spider will vary depending on the species and the location of purchase. Generally, spiders can cost anywhere from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars.

Trivia

It is believed that spiders were around long before dinosaurs roamed the earth. Fossilized spider webs, estimated to be over 100 million years old, have been found in amber. Interestingly, spiders have not changed much since then and still do the same jobs today as they did millions of years ago. Source: Science Alert

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.