I have a 1 - 1.5” pulchra, she eats two whole crickets a week. Already she has a fully black furry abdomen, but her legs are light brown fluff. She cost £25 which is roughly $20, that was for a 1cm sling but when she arrived she was an inch easily. They are quite common in the England at present. I’ve only had her a month or so but she’s grown a lot, already. Love this specie. Great video Tom xx
I recently just got a grammostola pulchra as my first tarantula and I immediately fell in love with her/him! It’s currently a sling and this video was very helpful for future rehousing : )
I’ve been scared of spiders since the movie came out. I’ve slowly gotten over this fear and love these Brazilian Blacks and Arizona Blonds. I don’t think I’d have the guys to keep one. But I now have a love and appreciation for these sweet T’s.
Tom Moran I also think I’d have a problem where I’d want to “pet” it and have to keep reminding myself don’t touch. Lol. Another reason why I’m afraid. I don’t want to be bitten. I’ve been bitten by lizards and hamsters. I’m not to keen on that.
Subbed, for the spider content, and the CoF shirt ! That's one chill spider ! Considering the poking and prodding he/she was remarkably mellow about it all. No hairing, no defensive posturing...
Thank you Tom getting my little Pulchra next week from Tanya can't wait and thank you for the download on sling care that comes with purchase. Your the best Tom much respect.
Getting one of these for my hubby's birthday in a month. It'll be his first T, and I can't think of a more perfect one for him. Really excited to be bringing one of these guys into our collection.
I'm going back and watching your old videos to keep myself busy and I gotta say...every time you say something is "caca" i crack up, and that goofy little smirk at the end got me. I think my inner child is showing. Lol Hope you and Billy and the kiddos are well.
Morgan! So sorry for the delay! I somehow missed a whole bunch of comments! Hahahaha. I forgot about this video! We are all doing great. I'm FINALLY on summer break and playing catch up with some stuff. I hope that you and yours are well!
@@TomsBigSpiders great! As soon as i rehoused "he"barricaded himself for 3 weeks and has molted!! Just waiting for him to come out when he's ready to eat :)
Tom , after watching a lot of your videos I am now going to get me and my grandchildren this spider he/she is beautiful. I am going to talk to fear not tarantulas tomorrow. Wish me luck. Thank you for all the great videos. Susan
What timing!! I just ordered my G. pulchra from Fear Not Tarantulas the other day! I've been planning an order from them for a while, I'm glad I did it when I did. I've wanted one ever since I first researched tarantulas, and I can't wait for mine to get here.
I just ordered a G. Pulchra and an LP from Fear Not. They're coming in on Wednesday and I'm stoked (extra stoked for the G. Pulchra though). Thanks for the vids and the podcast. I have learned so much from you!
Picked up a G. Pulchra sling at NARBC TInley from Palp Friction - they have around 25 or so slings left available for around $75 for people interested! The dark and velvety black caught my eye and is actually the species that got me interested in the hobby so I just had to grab one for myself! Thank you for the video Tom and keep up the great work!
I really appreciate your great and informative videos. I'm new to the hobby. This and a GBB are my first two slings, and thanks to your videos, I feel a lot more prepared!
Tom! I've been watching your videos for a short while now. I'm new to the hobby (about two years of experience). Your videos have helped me so much with care and choosing species. Also where to pick up quality T's. I was shopping at Netbug at the Hamburg Reptile Show for some time, and thanks to you I've recently made a purchase with Jamie's Tarantulas, and I have an order in at Fear Not Tarantulas. I'm very thankful that there is somebody making videos to help with sling care, molting, and species husbandry. Most of the videos out there are entertaining, but not very instructional. So thanks again. Sorry for the rant... Hahaha
Timothy, I've been dealing with Netbug because of proximity to me. Anastasia have been great with communications. I've bought 3 T's from her so far and meet up with her whenever I need anything if I can't make the Reptile Show in White Plains. She offered to watch my 4 babies while away on a family trip. Her knowledge along with Tom's is great when it comes to any questions on how to and on so many species. Been watching Tom's Big Spiders thinking over a year now before making the plunge to multiple T's. So glad we have this community that helps out for us newbies! If ever in doubt, I refer back to Tom's videos and blogs. So very helpful. Anastasia said all four of my vast collection (LOL, not yet!) looked well cared for and in good health. Big thanks to Tom for helping reassure us newer to the husbandry when we question ourselves.
Love your channel Tom! I'm just getting into the hobby and picked up my first T (grammostola pulchra) from Tonya about a week ago. Your videos and information are very helpful! Rock on
It's always great to see a new video notification from you. I enjoy this species, as well. I find mine to be quite bold but rarely, if ever , defensive. Great rehouse footage. Have a great weekend! 😊
I just recently discovered your videos and they are terrific. There's so much information contained along with action and excellent care. I subscribed right away!
Hey Tom! Thanks for the video, I can't watch enough of them. I'm thinking about getting into the hobby and am going to start out with G. Pulchra for my first T, but am waiting to purchase a sling at a Reptile show near me. The anticipation is maddening! Thanks again ^_^.
That’s what I paid at an expo for mine as well. While that is not cheap, a vendor I love and do business with, was selling her G. pulchras for $350. I have two of them now. The other was a freebie from Fear Not. One is more brown and the other is black. They are about the same size @ 1.5”. So I guess the black one is the quiroguai and the brown one is a pulchra. Maybe. I have held a grown female which belonged to a vendor, at his place, and it was just like my B. smithi/annitha. Very docile, but they aren’t all like that.
They were so common in the UK hobby in the 90s. As you say, they all but disappeared. Now making a comeback and hobbyists in the UK will be trying to breed them. Hopefully they'll be numerous again in the next few years. Lovely specimen there Tom. Be great to see a feeding video too, in the near future.
Hi, Debbie! I hope some folks start breeding them soon. Apparently, they are tough to get a sac from. I've even heard folks say that they think that there might even be two different species being sold as G. pulchra, which is why they are so difficult to breed. Thanks so much!
Tom Moran yes there is suspicion that some pulchras in the hobby are actually quirogai. This means hybridisation, as you know, if hobbyists are not careful, but this may have already happened. It's a concern.
I had my 'blade' from only 1 cm was so cute when I got her now here we are 9 years later and she is opening her own door which I was happy to record ;) . Thanks for all these great vids!
Hi, Leslie! Yeah, I know that a lot of folks are picking them up, so I figured that I should revisit this species. :) And that's awesome! I used to be big into snakes in the 90s! :)
Tom Moran I emailed Bruce from Arachnophiliacs and I'm in the waiting list for buyers who want a female pulchra. Just noticed how you were looking forward to be a female xD
I am receiving a 1.5” G pulchra tomorrow morning. Is she considered a sling still or a juvie? Should I put her in something closer to the first or second enclosure that yours was in? I also have a small slider crib on its way from tarantula cribs which is 6x4x4. I just listened to one of your podcasts and you mentioned the mistake of too much ventilation. Would that enclosure have too much? Thanks and sorry for all the questions
At 1.5", that spider is closer to being a "juvenile". That cage will be just fine for it, as they don't need a lot of moisture at that size. I would moisten a corner of the substrate just in case and make sure that it has a water dish handy. The ventilation will not be an issue! Congrats!
My G. Pulchra just molted today for the first time since having it. I could tell it was about to go down because where this spider walks around the enclosure almost constantly, for the last two days I didn't see it out of its hide. Checked on it this morning and had a half molted spider. Hoping for the best and I'll check back on it this afternoon when I get home.
Molted again. It's about 1.5" now and it's butt is jet black and covered in black hair. The rest of it still very much looks like a sling and almost even see through. I always come back to you videos when I have a update on one of my spiders, even if I've watched the video multiple times. The rewatch value on these videos are priceless.
Tom Moran Thanks for the response Tom! I just purchased my first G. pulchra I'm sooooo excited. Love all your content so much. Very envious of your collection! (:
I got a G. Pulchra sling at a local reptile show for $70 I figured it was a good deal. It's my husband's favorite species so I picked it up for his birthday. He is doing awesome and is super feisty I love it.
I do so love your videos, Tom. Was at a pet show today and bought another G. pulchra sling. Here in South Africa they are rare too, and quite pricey. My first G. pulchra sling behaves much like yours. Voracious eater and it loves to burrow. Also seems to burrow when nervous. If it gets disturbed, it goes into a corner and starts throwing soil around. Mine is growing very fast, I would guess it grew about 2cm over the summer to make it a total of 4cm now, and it moulted three times.
Congrats! I just got another sling as well! haha They are so rare! I didn't realize that they are rare there, too. :) Yours is growing super fast...wow!!! Some people believe that there are actually two species being sold as G. pulchra, as one tends to grow very quickly while the other grows super slow.
Just ordered one for myself today, saw them on the order list and our distributor said they were amazing and healthy at 1.5", cant wait to see it tomorrow. If I end up with a male, of course itll take a few years to find out, I will absolutely sending him off to someone who wants to breed. If I end up with a female I will be overjoyed to be bringing this long lived species into my collection
@@TomsBigSpiders thank you Tom! I have couple other pets that I just love to spoil so I’m so excited to do just that with the new baby! Can’t wait to meet them! Tomorrow 9 o’clock So excited Tom. So excited. I’ve thought about getting a tarantula for a long time. Took me a long time of research and videos to start to have the balls to even just go for it. And I’m so excited ! Sorry tmi Tom. But it’s nice to rant to a fella that enjoys the tarantulas as well!! Okay have a great day! I’m gonna name them Wednesday I hope she’s a lady. But my mother says Wednesday is a good name for a boy too. If they turn out to be a boy gandolf the great wizard sounds good for a boy… Okay tmi But man I’m so excited :) Praying for a lady. I wanna have them for as long as possible but If it’s a baby boy I’m supposed to have the baby boy. And that’s just fine with me. Just wish the baby boys lived as long as the ladies. Because I feel like I’m just gonna fall in love immediately and I just am selfish. And wish there was all the time in the world for the animals we have. But I know that’s not life. I wish it was. So excited! Have a great day thank you for the videos so much!
Hey Tom, awesome vid as always. I am fairly new to the hobby. (Just got a H. Chilensis F ~1" 2 weeks ago lol, and now of coarse I'm hook, line, and sinkered 🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂.) I am going to order a G. Pulchra F. when I get paid this Friday. The awesome gentlemen who sold me the F Flame instructed me to feed and mist once a week (while having water available at all times). I misted her tank on the sides of her 8X8X12 enclosure along with the coconut fiber with some peat moss mixed in while she was in her hide and she didn't seem to nuts about the damp substrate so I'm going to stick with misting just the sides and overflowing the top of the contact case In using for a water dish. Would a B. Black of the same size appreciate the same misting frequency? I've read that I would need to feed the black more frequently which is cool. Appreciate any advice you could give me sir. I know this video is over a year old so if I get no response, I'll totally understand.
Misting is fine if they want to grab a quick drink off of the glass, but it evaporates very quickly...usually in a couple hours. I usually moisten down the substrate in a corner. If she doesn't like the moisture, yes, I would definitely discontinue misting. :) Just to be clear, which specimen are you referring to when you say B. black? :) I just want to make sure I address the husbandry for the right tarantula! And thanks!
@@TomsBigSpiders my apologies I always forget to use the genus name. Gramastola Pulchra And thanks so much for the info. I never thought of just misting the substrate in the corner with the water dish. U rock sir!!!!!!!!
Saw you in other comments saying "nice growth", hear mine : 6 molts in 7 months(i didnt record previous ones), and went from less than an inch to 5 & 1/2 inches in 1 year, confirmed female Guess this is the fastest ever recorded
They are so lovely. I cannot wait till I get my sling. I'm relatively new to the hobby and have my list of 4 babies that I will eventually have. Your videos are so informative and entertaining. Please keep them up.
Great stuff Tom! Definitely an excellent beginner species. From what I have seen with my pulchra sling, it appreciates some moisture. They are quite hardy regardless, but I do think some people might be keeping them drier then they should.
Thanks, Roarke! As a sling, I kept mine partially moist at all times. I noticed that he would avoid the moist side of the substrate. That said, a buddy of mine has one that seems to appreciate some moist sub. I definitely think the prudent thing to do is to give them a moist corner just in case.
Just cruising through some of your videos while I eat dinner. Debating on what my next T will be. I think the G. Pulchra is it. Are they still absent from the hobby or has anything changed?
HA! That's awesome! You can't go wrong with a G. pulchra. The only thing that's changed is the name. It is now thought that the spider being sold as G. pulchra for years in the hobby is actually the G. quirogai. :)
I just ordered a 1 1/2 inch Brazilian black from fear not tarantulas today super excited can't wait. This is my second tarantula I got my first one 3 weeks ago it's a pink toe named cuddles. I think I'm going to name this one snuggles.
Wassup man! New to your channel. You mentioned you feed the slings twice a week. I just fed my sling may 2nd Tuesday. My question is, how long do I wait until I feed my sling for the second time in the same week?
Welcome to the channel, and thank you for subscribing! I usually give them three days between feedings. That said, once a week would be perfectly fine. I know folks that even feed their bi-weekly. Also, if you're giving tiny slings large meals, you don't need to feed them as often. I hope that helps!
Mike, mine have grown at a medium pace, but others report that theirs take a LONG time to grow up. If you bought a sling, it would be years before you had a big adult. This one is at least 5.
Thanks Tom! By the way, this is going to be a bit random but I love the intro music. I wasn't commenting when you first implemented it but I have to say that it's one of the few intro tracks that I personally consider to be 'good'.
Yet another GREAT shirt!!! Lol. Cradle of Filth is another one of my favs...we defiantly need to chat some more lol. And this is one of the species I absolutely LOVE and admire this species! I am planning on getting at least 2 this next week along with some M. balfouri....can't wait!!! 2 of my fav species....gonna be a great next couple weeks that's for sure! Keep up with the husbandry vids man, gotta be in my top 3 fav "tubers" to watch! Oh and how long have you had your G. pulchra?
My nine year old and I have narrowed to down to this guy or a curly hair. Side note: we have six jumping spiders and two whiptails, this will be our first tarantula. I am not real worried about cost, which would you suggest for her (and mine) first big spider? Awesome videos by the way.
Hey, Eric! Awwwww...that's awesome! The curly hair, the Brazilian Black (the one in this video), and the G. pulchripes (Chaco golden knee) are all great starter species.
Just picked one of these up for my first ever tarantula from my local pet store! After research I decided this was the species I wanted to test the waters with and decided to check my local store to see if they had one (they normally have a really good selection of inverts) and they did! It was fate :) They are so tiny (probably about 3/4 in), I'm absolutely terrified of killing them, but, thanks to your videos I feel much more confident in taking care of them, so thank you!!! I made a custom enclosure from an acrylic food storage container and he's already dug himself a couple of burrows around the cork bark I have in there and is a VERY voracious eater it seems. Crossing my fingers for a girl ^_^
Congratulations! It sure was fate. :) 3/4" is pretty well started, so I'm sure that you'll do fine. They are a VERY hardy species. :) Glad to hear that she has settled in well for you. I'll keep my fingers crossed that you get a lady. :) Thanks again!
Tom, slowly working my way through all your videos on the T's I am starting back into the hobby with. This video like all the others so far is awesome and appreciated. Acquired a 3/4 inch sling from Tropical Hut, Portland Oregon, October 2019, cost was as you said a little higher than some of my others at $95. Pretty mellow little guy/gal until you give it food, then its a massive WWE style take down. Getting bigger with each molt, but seems to be the slowest at frequency so far. Its about 1.5" now so going slower than the GBB's. Cheers!
Hello, Gery! Thank you so much! Congrats on grabbing one of these! They can be difficult to acquire at times. Yeah, they are quite the eaters, especially for more laid back spiders. Mine is growing rather slowly as well. Thanks again!
Great video again, Tom! This species is really expensive in the US, in Europe you could get a 1 inch sling for about 25 Euro... Looking forward to your Podcast tomorrow!
None. Many folks actually keep their tarantulas in the dark at all times. Personally, I like to give mine a normal day/night cycle (the lights in my tarantula room are on during the day and off at night). They do not have the lighting requirements that reptiles have.
Tom Moran I totally get that. People try to root out literally anything they get their hands on. By the way, now that I've got your ear, you're definitely a huge inspiration and I've practically devoured nearly all of your T videos and and your blog. You're a really cool guy!
Yeah, I had one woman rip me up and down telling me that only humans are nasty and it got...weird. haha Thank you very much! I'm glad people still read the blog. Hahahaha. I moved over to the videos because I found that some people wouldn't take the time to read the articles when I referenced them. lol
Hey, Tom! Great Video! I have a question, though. How much larger should my enclosure be compared to the actual spider? My Pulchra molted for the very first time, he's not much bigger than he was previously, but when he does it again I think he will be a little bigger than his hide.
Looking back on these videos, it’s almost funny that they were impossible to find! Petco was practically giving mine away (if not a pure Pulchra, something similar) bc they could never sell it. It’s about 3”-4”
Hi Tom and/or people with brazilian black. I was wondering if you have some advice for me. I got a 5 gallon tank with the substrate less than half filled that is still moist (a little too moist so I'm letting it dry more). I live in the basement which is colder than room temperature so I bought a ceramic heat emitter. I don't have her just yet but I want to make sure her enclosure is perfect. Do you guys have any tips for a complete beginner? Thanks
Hello, Dre! What are your temperatures in your basement? I definitely wouldn't use a ceramic heater, as those can quickly overheat and kill a spider. If it's cold enough that you would need an extra heat source (less than 60 or so), then you could used a heat mat on the SIDE of the enclosure.
I'm just getting into this hobby and I've decided to start with one of these beauties. I was curious what you think the best substrate is. I've seen a lot in coconut shaving mixtures. What are your thoughts?
Hi, Cody! Coco fiber is one of the more popular substrates to use. It works perfectly fine. Topsoil works great as well. It honestly comes down to personal preference. I've used both without issue! Here's an article I did on substrates that explains the pros and cons of each: tomsbigspiders.com/2014/07/30/choosing-the-right-substrate-for-your-tarantula/ Welcome to the hobby!
She is gorgeous Tom!!! You're right, I believe they need to be bred when they mature and be put back into the hobby. They're amazing spiders to say the least. Great video and very informative as always. Tyfs God bless you
Hey Tom, just saw this is like 4yrs old, just got my very first G pulchra a female as all my Ts are females lol, it’s around 2in in LS atm so my tiniest for a while.
Thanks for sharing Tom, as always, great video. My G.Pulchra is over 8 yrs now, as adult, she only preferres drier side and 'tells me off' or rather starts turning around when she sense I start misting her tank, even a bit of it 😞💦
I picked up one from Fear Not and one from Joe Rossi...they were both the same size when I got them but since one has covered its burrow in premolt I’m assuming while the other is happily munching away...not sure if that is any indication of having a male (growing faster) and a female or not, but I’m hoping! Check back in a few years, lol! Another awesome video, always look forward to them!! 😊
Hey, Christine! Sorry for the delay...I got really behind! Someone else was saying they bought two at the same size, and one is outpacing the other. Let's hope you guys have one of each sex. :) Thanks so much!
I know you have allot of videos in the works and not allot of time, but id really love to get an update on your pulchra!! cant wait till my little guy is as big as yours. (many many years away lol)
Awesome video as always Tom. thanks for the time and effort you put into the hobby. It's inspiring. Also if you don't mind me asking? Where do you get your 32 oz deli cups. Lol I've been having a little trouble finding the clear ones.
Thank you for the very kind words! :) Ummmmm...that's a great question! The first time I bought the 32-oz deli cups, they were quite milky and NOT what I was looking for. Let me see if I can find you a link..
Okay, I think I bought the last batch from a place that's not in business anymore. These are the ones I will likely be buying next time: www.amazon.com/Solo-32oz-Deli-Container-50ct/dp/B01C4MLCHG/ref=sr_1_14_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1521985143&sr=8-14&keywords=32%2Boz%2Bclear%2Bdeli%2Bcontainers&th=1
Tom Moran thank you so much. That's the problem I was having. I couldn't find any that wasn't milky. And the one that I did find. you had to buy 500 lol and I don't need that many.....yet . Thanks alot .
That was exactly what happened to me! haha. I ordered 25, and they were thick and milky. I finally found a vendor who was selling the, but he closed. These SHOULD be the clear ones!
I'm taking my family to our first invert show tomorrow and I might get G. Pulchra. Tom is there any reason why you are not using Dubia roaches? I don't think I've seen any in your vids. great info as usal!
That's fantastic! Good luck, and I hope you find one! :) I have a dubia roach colony, and I just fed out a couple dozen of them today. haha I get better feeding responses from some of them with the crickets, so I usually use them when filming.
Hello Tom, I was wondering of you own a Cyriopagopus minax? If so do you plan on doing a video that would include that species? I plan on purchasing one as my first old world species. I tried search your channel but was unable to locate a video on them soI thought I would reach out and ask, thank you.
I have two G. pulchra that I got as 1/2 inch slings from Jamie's Tranchulas. They are not quite juveniles yet. I don't know if they are 'sac mates' or not but one is definitely growing faster then the other. So if they are male and female, I'm guessing I shouldn't try to breed them. What do you think?
Man, hopefully you have a male AND female. That would be great! :) Supposedly, inbreeding spiders doesn't have the same impact that inbreeding vertebrates has. That said, the male will likely mature long before the female is ready.
I have a friend who keeps and breeds T`'s and hes nagging on me for months, showing me pictures and offers me deals for enclosures... so i said "FINE! just hold your tits, i have to inform myself first" So i found your channel and watched your beginner species vid and out of all the channels ive seen you seem very chill and professional about it and the way you talk (clear and well pronounced) makes it easy for me (i`m german) to understand you. So i'm going to watch some more and i asked my friend if he allows me to feed one of his spiders, so i can get a feel for it, id like to be better safe than sorry and as stunning as they are, they need care and i dont want to endanger the spiders life because i'm too afraid to apply measures thateep them healty. The more i feel informed, the less pressure i have on me. Thanks for providing this nice channel :-)
Hello, Tobi! Thank you so much...that's a heck of a complement. I always worry that I talk too quickly as I'm trying to cram in as much info as possible. I'm so glad that you're feeling more confident in keeping them. :) Hopefully, you feel ready to get one soon.
Awesome cradle of filth shirt Tom! I’m thinking of purchasing this species at an expo coming up. Always wanted an all black tarantula!! Any other recommendations as far as all black docile-ish T’s? Thanks again brother! And thanks for the info!
Ha! Thanks so much, Abe! They really are stunning. My son came down and saw my freshly molted young adult yesterday and said, "Oh my God...it's all black? That's my new favorite tarantula." haha Unfortunately, there aren't many all black ones out there! There is the Aphonopelma steindachneri, but I've never seen it in the hobby.
Tom Moran These are my dream tarantulas! I’ve been trying to find one for a very very long time and would be willing to buy one for a very generous amount of money. But so far no luck. Wish I had ur contact so I could pick ur brain about it haha. My email is abhaammm13@gmail.com if u ever get a chance! Thanks again Tom ur videos are really awesome brother!
I appreciate this video. This one is next on my list. Question: Do you feed any of your tarantulas Dubia roaches? I hate keeping crickets. That is a staple for my juvie. I already keep them for my reptiles. Also feeding slings BSFLs? I hear contrary information on doing that because they are high in calcium.
Thank you! Yup, I have a dubia colony and feed a lot of my larger tarantulas dubia. I don't like keeping crickets, but some of my tarantulas don't eat the roaches. As for BSFLs, I honestly haven't heard that one before. It sounds a bit strange to me. I would assume that they would be fine.
Tom Moran I picked up a sling this weekend at an expo. Price was not a surprise. I paid $75. This sling is about 1/2". Pretty intimidating but it was a have to have. It came with pretty wet cococoir (spelling?) and nothing else inside its cup. I swapped the substrate out for a mixture of top soil, peat moss and vermiculite. Would it be beneficial to the sling if I add a tiny pc of cork bark and maybe a tiny faux leaf? I have xs dubia to feed after its molted.. since it very premolt now. I just want to get this as right as possible. Thanks again!
Hi, Dave! As slings, you want to give them enough room to burrow without them getting lost. I once gave a 1" sling 3", and it burried itself at the bottom and didn't come up to eat. For adults, it depends. If it's still burrowing, 5" or so. If not, a few inches.
5 years since u posted this amnd i much appreciate this informative vid thank you!! x
I'm so glad that it was useful, Lauren!
I have a 1 - 1.5” pulchra, she eats two whole crickets a week. Already she has a fully black furry abdomen, but her legs are light brown fluff. She cost £25 which is roughly $20, that was for a 1cm sling but when she arrived she was an inch easily. They are quite common in the England at present. I’ve only had her a month or so but she’s grown a lot, already. Love this specie. Great video Tom xx
Wow, I wish they were that inexpensive over here! Unfortunately, we have to import them, so that jacks the price way up. Thanks so much! :)
Watching 6 years after the original post. I have a sling in the mail. Thanks for the information Tom.
All the info still holds up, Korey! Thanks!
I recently just got a grammostola pulchra as my first tarantula and I immediately fell in love with her/him! It’s currently a sling and this video was very helpful for future rehousing : )
Awwww...that's awesome, Lilith!
I just picked up a G. Pulchra sling today! Took me forever to find one. The shop said they just got them in. I'm so excited.
Congrats, Alicia! Yeah, they've been out of the hobby for a couple years. The ones we're seeing now are being imported. :)
I’ve been scared of spiders since the movie came out. I’ve slowly gotten over this fear and love these Brazilian Blacks and Arizona Blonds. I don’t think I’d have the guys to keep one. But I now have a love and appreciation for these sweet T’s.
That's awesome! I think that a lot of us start of as scared of them. I know that I did. :)
Tom Moran I also think I’d have a problem where I’d want to “pet” it and have to keep reminding myself don’t touch. Lol. Another reason why I’m afraid. I don’t want to be bitten. I’ve been bitten by lizards and hamsters. I’m not to keen on that.
They sure are exploding with popularity. I can't wait until my two are this size. The temperament is so wonderful with this species. Great info!
Thanks so much! Yeah, I think folks are trying to snatch them up while they can. :)
Subbed, for the spider content, and the CoF shirt ! That's one chill spider ! Considering the poking and prodding he/she was remarkably mellow about it all. No hairing, no defensive posturing...
Hahaha Thank so much! Yeah, he was very laid back. :) Thanks again!
so excited to order from fear not spiders. doing all my homework beforehand to be a good rancho dad
That's awesome...good luck!
Thank you Tom getting my little Pulchra next week from Tanya can't wait and thank you for the download on sling care that comes with purchase. Your the best Tom much respect.
Thanks so much, Brutus! And congrats! :)
Getting one of these for my hubby's birthday in a month. It'll be his first T, and I can't think of a more perfect one for him. Really excited to be bringing one of these guys into our collection.
That's awesome...what a great gift! Congrats to both of you. :)
Just ordered my new Brazilian black from fear not tarantulas and I've been wanting to do this for years now so excited!!!
Congrats, Nicole! That's awesome! :)
I'm going back and watching your old videos to keep myself busy and I gotta say...every time you say something is "caca" i crack up, and that goofy little smirk at the end got me. I think my inner child is showing. Lol
Hope you and Billy and the kiddos are well.
Morgan! So sorry for the delay! I somehow missed a whole bunch of comments! Hahahaha. I forgot about this video! We are all doing great. I'm FINALLY on summer break and playing catch up with some stuff. I hope that you and yours are well!
Thanks for all your great videos! Very informative. I'm getting my first T this week, a G. Pulchra, of course!
Thanks so much...and congrats! How is it doing? :)
@@TomsBigSpiders great! As soon as i rehoused "he"barricaded himself for 3 weeks and has molted!! Just waiting for him to come out when he's ready to eat :)
Tom , after watching a lot of your videos I am now going to get me and my grandchildren this spider he/she is beautiful. I am going to talk to fear not tarantulas tomorrow. Wish me luck. Thank you for all the great videos.
Susan
Hello, Susan...that's awesome! Best of luck! Please let me know if you have any questions when you get it. Thanks!
What timing!! I just ordered my G. pulchra from Fear Not Tarantulas the other day! I've been planning an order from them for a while, I'm glad I did it when I did. I've wanted one ever since I first researched tarantulas, and I can't wait for mine to get here.
Hi, Briana! Congrats...that's awesome! I knew that Tanya just got some in, so I figured that it would be a good time to do a video on them. :)
I’m getting a sling soon! Fear Not Tarantulas had slings that just molted, and I can’t wait to have this one in my collection
That's awesome, Ashley...congrats!
I just ordered a G. Pulchra and an LP from Fear Not. They're coming in on Wednesday and I'm stoked (extra stoked for the G. Pulchra though). Thanks for the vids and the podcast. I have learned so much from you!
Hi, Nicole! That's awesome...congrats! Did they arrive? :) Thank you so much!
I just bought one. I can't wait!
Congrats, Kacie! :)
Picked up a G. Pulchra sling at NARBC TInley from Palp Friction - they have around 25 or so slings left available for around $75 for people interested! The dark and velvety black caught my eye and is actually the species that got me interested in the hobby so I just had to grab one for myself! Thank you for the video Tom and keep up the great work!
Thanks so much for the heads up, Jess! That's awesome!
I really appreciate your great and informative videos. I'm new to the hobby. This and a GBB are my first two slings, and thanks to your videos, I feel a lot more prepared!
bought my sling 1 year ago. moulted in month 11 AND then again in month 12.
Nice vid btw
Man, that's some great growth!
Tom! I've been watching your videos for a short while now. I'm new to the hobby (about two years of experience). Your videos have helped me so much with care and choosing species. Also where to pick up quality T's. I was shopping at Netbug at the Hamburg Reptile Show for some time, and thanks to you I've recently made a purchase with Jamie's Tarantulas, and I have an order in at Fear Not Tarantulas. I'm very thankful that there is somebody making videos to help with sling care, molting, and species husbandry. Most of the videos out there are entertaining, but not very instructional. So thanks again. Sorry for the rant... Hahaha
Timothy, I've been dealing with Netbug because of proximity to me. Anastasia have been great with communications. I've bought 3 T's from her so far and meet up with her whenever I need anything if I can't make the Reptile Show in White Plains. She offered to watch my 4 babies while away on a family trip. Her knowledge along with Tom's is great when it comes to any questions on how to and on so many species. Been watching Tom's Big Spiders thinking over a year now before making the plunge to multiple T's. So glad we have this community that helps out for us newbies! If ever in doubt, I refer back to Tom's videos and blogs. So very helpful. Anastasia said all four of my vast collection (LOL, not yet!) looked well cared for and in good health. Big thanks to Tom for helping reassure us newer to the husbandry when we question ourselves.
Timothy Thorne its so nice that Tom lets us pick his brain. There is a lot of good stuff in there.
just got my second ever t and its a g pulchra 1.2cm!!!! beautiful beautiful t this video convinced me pulchra was the t for me so thank you!!
Congrats, William...that's awesome! :)
Nice job man! These are beautiful tarantulas & it would be cool to see more of them in the hobby here in the States.
Thanks, Jeff! Yup, I 'm hoping someone has some luck breeding them!
Hello guys!
Don't have a tarantula channel, but I do have an Instagram page, if you'd like to follow ☺️
instagram.com/arachnosara
And I'm now following.
Love your channel Tom! I'm just getting into the hobby and picked up my first T (grammostola pulchra) from Tonya about a week ago. Your videos and information are very helpful! Rock on
Thanks so much, Meagan! You started with a great species there. :) I have one of Tanya's slings as well. :)
Same
Just ordered one for 130$ with a habitat from Fear Not :) It’ll be here tomorrow! Super excited!
Congrats...that's awesome! My little one (from Fear Not) is ready to molt soon. :)
It's always great to see a new video notification from you.
I enjoy this species, as well. I find mine to be quite bold but rarely, if ever , defensive.
Great rehouse footage. Have a great weekend! 😊
Thanks, Jodi! :) Yeah, mine has been very bold as well. And he's an eating machine! I'll be curious to see if he has spurs after his next molt...
I'm getting a Brazilian Black tomorrow and a Golden Blueleg Baboon. Super excited. Thank you for the info.
Congrats! Two awesome species!
I just recently discovered your videos and they are terrific. There's so much information contained along with action and excellent care. I subscribed right away!
Thanks so much, Toni! :) I really appreciate it.
Hey Tom! Thanks for the video, I can't watch enough of them. I'm thinking about getting into the hobby and am going to start out with G. Pulchra for my first T, but am waiting to purchase a sling at a Reptile show near me. The anticipation is maddening! Thanks again ^_^.
Oh, man....the waiting game! When is the show? :)
And thank you!
I found 10 grammostola pulchra slings at a reptile expo here in the US, it was a good thing to see. Of course I had to get one-paid $65. Good video!!
Sorry for the delay, Martina! That's awesome...congrats! :)
That’s what I paid at an expo for mine as well. While that is not cheap, a vendor I love and do business with, was selling her G. pulchras for $350. I have two of them now. The other was a freebie from Fear Not. One is more brown and the other is black. They are about the same size @ 1.5”. So I guess the black one is the quiroguai and the brown one is a pulchra. Maybe.
I have held a grown female which belonged to a vendor, at his place, and it was just like my B. smithi/annitha. Very docile, but they aren’t all like that.
I just paid $50 for my sling!
Bought mine at 1.5 inches. At the time it was brown. It molted about 4 months later and turned completely black. It also grew almost an inch larger!
Wow, that's great growth, Jared! Mine just molted again after two years. haha
They were so common in the UK hobby in the 90s. As you say, they all but disappeared. Now making a comeback and hobbyists in the UK will be trying to breed them. Hopefully they'll be numerous again in the next few years. Lovely specimen there Tom. Be great to see a feeding video too, in the near future.
Hi, Debbie! I hope some folks start breeding them soon. Apparently, they are tough to get a sac from. I've even heard folks say that they think that there might even be two different species being sold as G. pulchra, which is why they are so difficult to breed. Thanks so much!
Tom Moran yes there is suspicion that some pulchras in the hobby are actually quirogai. This means hybridisation, as you know, if hobbyists are not careful, but this may have already happened. It's a concern.
So beautiful! Definitly on my wishlist!
Thanks so much!
Just a incredible looking. I always love your husbandry videos. Thank you for sharing the knowledge.
Hey, bud! Thanks so much. I really enjoy doing these. :)
I had my 'blade' from only 1 cm was so cute when I got her now here we are 9 years later and she is opening her own door which I was happy to record ;) . Thanks for all these great vids!
That's awesome, Scott. And thanks so much!
So funny, I enjoyed watching her. My little one is so friendly. I bought her March 2016 and she's smaller than yours.
Thank you, Mia! This one molted out and is now a mature male.
Thank you for a great „lesson“.😉☺️ This tarantula is so beautiful! I‘m looking forward to see him/her in complete black one day. Awesome!
Thank you, Sandy! :)
Perfect timing for this video! I just bought my first sling from Tanya. I started with pythons and kingsnake but now I want to add this beauty.
Hi, Leslie! Yeah, I know that a lot of folks are picking them up, so I figured that I should revisit this species. :) And that's awesome! I used to be big into snakes in the 90s! :)
Tom Moran I emailed Bruce from Arachnophiliacs and I'm in the waiting list for buyers who want a female pulchra. Just noticed how you were looking forward to be a female xD
I am receiving a 1.5” G pulchra tomorrow morning. Is she considered a sling still or a juvie?
Should I put her in something closer to the first or second enclosure that yours was in?
I also have a small slider crib on its way from tarantula cribs which is 6x4x4. I just listened to one of your podcasts and you mentioned the mistake of too much ventilation. Would that enclosure have too much? Thanks and sorry for all the questions
At 1.5", that spider is closer to being a "juvenile". That cage will be just fine for it, as they don't need a lot of moisture at that size. I would moisten a corner of the substrate just in case and make sure that it has a water dish handy. The ventilation will not be an issue! Congrats!
great information as always,
Thanks, Scott!
My G. Pulchra just molted today for the first time since having it. I could tell it was about to go down because where this spider walks around the enclosure almost constantly, for the last two days I didn't see it out of its hide. Checked on it this morning and had a half molted spider. Hoping for the best and I'll check back on it this afternoon when I get home.
Congrats on the molt! I'm so glad that it apparently went well!
Molted again. It's about 1.5" now and it's butt is jet black and covered in black hair. The rest of it still very much looks like a sling and almost even see through. I always come back to you videos when I have a update on one of my spiders, even if I've watched the video multiple times. The rewatch value on these videos are priceless.
This is the species I want to get as my beginner. It's so beautiful.
They really are so gorgeous. :)
I got one of these as my first tarantula in December 2020. She’s just 6cm long and her name is Aragaog, not sure on the gender but I call her a she
They're already sold out lol. Awesome video Tom! Keep it up bud!
Hi, Ashley! I just checked, and it looks like they are back up (not sure what happened there!).
Thank you! :)
Tom Moran Thanks for the response Tom! I just purchased my first G. pulchra I'm sooooo excited. Love all your content so much. Very envious of your collection! (:
Gorgeous T my friend! It definitely didn't want to get transferred 😄
Thanks so much, Joseph! Nope...he did NOT want to move. haha
3 years and mine is barely 2 inches! Due a moult any day soon.
Really beautifull and cool T's. One of the best to own in my opinion. Great vid!
I got a G. Pulchra sling at a local reptile show for $70 I figured it was a good deal. It's my husband's favorite species so I picked it up for his birthday. He is doing awesome and is super feisty I love it.
Hello, Brittan! That's a really good price for one...congrats! You'll have fun watching this one grow up. What a great birthday present! :)
I do so love your videos, Tom. Was at a pet show today and bought another G. pulchra sling. Here in South Africa they are rare too, and quite pricey. My first G. pulchra sling behaves much like yours. Voracious eater and it loves to burrow. Also seems to burrow when nervous. If it gets disturbed, it goes into a corner and starts throwing soil around. Mine is growing very fast, I would guess it grew about 2cm over the summer to make it a total of 4cm now, and it moulted three times.
Congrats! I just got another sling as well! haha They are so rare! I didn't realize that they are rare there, too. :) Yours is growing super fast...wow!!! Some people believe that there are actually two species being sold as G. pulchra, as one tends to grow very quickly while the other grows super slow.
Just ordered one for myself today, saw them on the order list and our distributor said they were amazing and healthy at 1.5", cant wait to see it tomorrow. If I end up with a male, of course itll take a few years to find out, I will absolutely sending him off to someone who wants to breed. If I end up with a female I will be overjoyed to be bringing this long lived species into my collection
I just recieved my new little buddy, 1.75 inches had molted during shipping and is already showing that awesome black
Congratulations! This has become one of the most popular species in the hobby. Even if you get a male, you'll have him for a good long time. :)
Awesome as ever Tom thank you for the vid always helpful
Thanks so much, Phil! :)
I freeking love the cradle of filth shirt man!!!!!
YES! Thanks so much, bud! Hope all is well!
I’m getting my baby grammastola pulcra Tuesday !!!! AHHH so excited
My first spider ever.I’m so nervous and excited I just wanna do everything right.
Congrats, Alex...that's awesome! I'm sure that you'll do fine!
@@TomsBigSpiders thank you Tom!
I have couple other pets that I just love to spoil so I’m so excited to do just that with the new baby!
Can’t wait to meet them! Tomorrow 9 o’clock
So excited Tom.
So excited.
I’ve thought about getting a tarantula for a long time. Took me a long time of research and videos to start to have the balls to even just go for it.
And I’m so excited !
Sorry tmi Tom. But it’s nice to rant to a fella that enjoys the tarantulas as well!!
Okay have a great day!
I’m gonna name them Wednesday I hope she’s a lady. But my mother says Wednesday is a good name for a boy too.
If they turn out to be a boy gandolf the great wizard sounds good for a boy…
Okay tmi
But man I’m so excited :)
Praying for a lady. I wanna have them for as long as possible but If it’s a baby boy I’m supposed to have the baby boy.
And that’s just fine with me.
Just wish the baby boys lived as long as the ladies.
Because I feel like I’m just gonna fall in love immediately and I just am selfish. And wish there was all the time in the world for the animals we have.
But I know that’s not life.
I wish it was.
So excited!
Have a great day thank you for the videos so much!
Good video buddy! always good to get some confirmation I am keeping my pulchra in good conditions :D
Hey, Andy! Thanks so much, bud! :)
Just ordered one from Tonya yesterday. It will be here tomorrow. I cant wait
That's awesome...congrats!!!
Hey Tom, awesome vid as always. I am fairly new to the hobby. (Just got a H. Chilensis F ~1" 2 weeks ago lol, and now of coarse I'm hook, line, and sinkered 🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂.) I am going to order a G. Pulchra F. when I get paid this Friday. The awesome gentlemen who sold me the F Flame instructed me to feed and mist once a week (while having water available at all times). I misted her tank on the sides of her 8X8X12 enclosure along with the coconut fiber with some peat moss mixed in while she was in her hide and she didn't seem to nuts about the damp substrate so I'm going to stick with misting just the sides and overflowing the top of the contact case In using for a water dish. Would a B. Black of the same size appreciate the same misting frequency? I've read that I would need to feed the black more frequently which is cool. Appreciate any advice you could give me sir. I know this video is over a year old so if I get no response, I'll totally understand.
Misting is fine if they want to grab a quick drink off of the glass, but it evaporates very quickly...usually in a couple hours. I usually moisten down the substrate in a corner. If she doesn't like the moisture, yes, I would definitely discontinue misting. :)
Just to be clear, which specimen are you referring to when you say B. black? :) I just want to make sure I address the husbandry for the right tarantula!
And thanks!
@@TomsBigSpiders my apologies I always forget to use the genus name. Gramastola Pulchra
And thanks so much for the info. I never thought of just misting the substrate in the corner with the water dish. U rock sir!!!!!!!!
Here in Argentina this species is super cheap, i just bought one G.Pulchra sling for 7 dollars!
Man, what a great price!
Saw you in other comments saying "nice growth", hear mine : 6 molts in 7 months(i didnt record previous ones), and went from less than an inch to 5 & 1/2 inches in 1 year, confirmed female
Guess this is the fastest ever recorded
Hi, Paul! Yup, that's definitely the fastest growth I have ever heard for just about any tarantula. haha
They are so lovely. I cannot wait till I get my sling. I'm relatively new to the hobby and have my list of 4 babies that I will eventually have. Your videos are so informative and entertaining. Please keep them up.
Thank you so much, Shoshannah! I'm so glad that they are helpful. Good luck with choosing!
Yes!!! I just got 1 today from Tanya soo HAPPY
Congratulations! I just got another sling from her as well. :)
Great stuff Tom!
Definitely an excellent beginner species. From what I have seen with my pulchra sling, it appreciates some moisture. They are quite hardy regardless, but I do think some people might be keeping them drier then they should.
Thanks, Roarke! As a sling, I kept mine partially moist at all times. I noticed that he would avoid the moist side of the substrate. That said, a buddy of mine has one that seems to appreciate some moist sub. I definitely think the prudent thing to do is to give them a moist corner just in case.
Just cruising through some of your videos while I eat dinner. Debating on what my next T will be. I think the G. Pulchra is it. Are they still absent from the hobby or has anything changed?
HA! That's awesome! You can't go wrong with a G. pulchra. The only thing that's changed is the name. It is now thought that the spider being sold as G. pulchra for years in the hobby is actually the G. quirogai. :)
@@TomsBigSpiders awesome! Thanks for that info! Keep up the great work. What you are doing here is simply amazing.
I just ordered a 1 1/2 inch Brazilian black from fear not tarantulas today super excited can't wait. This is my second tarantula I got my first one 3 weeks ago it's a pink toe named cuddles. I think I'm going to name this one snuggles.
Congrats, Lis! That's awesome. Love the names, too! :)
@@TomsBigSpiders I am going to try to stick with what I have for a few months. But when I move I am going all out
Wassup man! New to your channel. You mentioned you feed the slings twice a week. I just fed my sling may 2nd Tuesday. My question is, how long do I wait until I feed my sling for the second time in the same week?
Welcome to the channel, and thank you for subscribing! I usually give them three days between feedings. That said, once a week would be perfectly fine. I know folks that even feed their bi-weekly. Also, if you're giving tiny slings large meals, you don't need to feed them as often. I hope that helps!
Thanks for the video and reminder, pretty sure I just bought the last one from Fear Not :D. Looking forward to getting her in a couple weeks!
That's awesome Micheal. Congrats!
Oops. nope, they have more. So go buy them people!
Great Vid Tom!Are these guys slow growers? I would love one but the size intimidate me. I'm hoping I can grow with them. Is that possible?
Mike, mine have grown at a medium pace, but others report that theirs take a LONG time to grow up. If you bought a sling, it would be years before you had a big adult. This one is at least 5.
Thanks Tom! By the way, this is going to be a bit random but I love the intro music. I wasn't commenting when you first implemented it but I have to say that it's one of the few intro tracks that I personally consider to be 'good'.
Is husbandry for G. Actaeon the same? I’m having trouble finding information on it.
HI, Scarlett! Yes, I would keep it the same. :)
So beautiful. I just ordered one from you and I can't wait to receive it! 🕷
They are such a gorgeous species. Congrats!
Yet another GREAT shirt!!! Lol. Cradle of Filth is another one of my favs...we defiantly need to chat some more lol. And this is one of the species I absolutely LOVE and admire this species! I am planning on getting at least 2 this next week along with some M. balfouri....can't wait!!! 2 of my fav species....gonna be a great next couple weeks that's for sure! Keep up with the husbandry vids man, gotta be in my top 3 fav "tubers" to watch!
Oh and how long have you had your G. pulchra?
Ha! Thank you! Have some Filth on while I'm writing this. :) That's awesome! Let me know when you get them. :)
I've had this one for over 4 years.
My nine year old and I have narrowed to down to this guy or a curly hair. Side note: we have six jumping spiders and two whiptails, this will be our first tarantula. I am not real worried about cost, which would you suggest for her (and mine) first big spider?
Awesome videos by the way.
Hey, Eric! Awwwww...that's awesome! The curly hair, the Brazilian Black (the one in this video), and the G. pulchripes (Chaco golden knee) are all great starter species.
Just picked one of these up for my first ever tarantula from my local pet store! After research I decided this was the species I wanted to test the waters with and decided to check my local store to see if they had one (they normally have a really good selection of inverts) and they did! It was fate :) They are so tiny (probably about 3/4 in), I'm absolutely terrified of killing them, but, thanks to your videos I feel much more confident in taking care of them, so thank you!!! I made a custom enclosure from an acrylic food storage container and he's already dug himself a couple of burrows around the cork bark I have in there and is a VERY voracious eater it seems. Crossing my fingers for a girl ^_^
Congratulations! It sure was fate. :) 3/4" is pretty well started, so I'm sure that you'll do fine. They are a VERY hardy species. :) Glad to hear that she has settled in well for you. I'll keep my fingers crossed that you get a lady. :) Thanks again!
Tom, slowly working my way through all your videos on the T's I am starting back into the hobby with. This video like all the others so far is awesome and appreciated. Acquired a 3/4 inch sling from Tropical Hut, Portland Oregon, October 2019, cost was as you said a little higher than some of my others at $95. Pretty mellow little guy/gal until you give it food, then its a massive WWE style take down. Getting bigger with each molt, but seems to be the slowest at frequency so far. Its about 1.5" now so going slower than the GBB's. Cheers!
Hello, Gery! Thank you so much! Congrats on grabbing one of these! They can be difficult to acquire at times. Yeah, they are quite the eaters, especially for more laid back spiders. Mine is growing rather slowly as well. Thanks again!
Great video again, Tom! This species is really expensive in the US, in Europe you could get a 1 inch sling for about 25 Euro...
Looking forward to your Podcast tomorrow!
Yup, they cost a mint over here! That's what happens when you have to import everything. :)
And thank you! Hopefully, it doesn't disappoint!
Any type of lighting requirements at all?
None. Many folks actually keep their tarantulas in the dark at all times. Personally, I like to give mine a normal day/night cycle (the lights in my tarantula room are on during the day and off at night). They do not have the lighting requirements that reptiles have.
I love the notes on the spider-- "He's not actually nasty, I didn't mean that" haha.
There's always someone who jumps all over me for calling them "bratty" or "nasty". I was trying to head it off. hahaha Thanks!
Tom Moran I totally get that. People try to root out literally anything they get their hands on. By the way, now that I've got your ear, you're definitely a huge inspiration and I've practically devoured nearly all of your T videos and and your blog. You're a really cool guy!
Yeah, I had one woman rip me up and down telling me that only humans are nasty and it got...weird. haha
Thank you very much! I'm glad people still read the blog. Hahahaha. I moved over to the videos because I found that some people wouldn't take the time to read the articles when I referenced them. lol
Hey, Tom! Great Video! I have a question, though.
How much larger should my enclosure be compared to the actual spider? My Pulchra molted for the very first time, he's not much bigger than he was previously, but when he does it again I think he will be a little bigger than his hide.
What size will he be after his next molt? I usually put juveniles into something around 1-2 gallons or so.
I have 2, both are extremely chill. One ate quite a bit before going into premolt, the other is already in premolt so hasnt eaten yet.
These guys tend to get super chubby before molting!
Looking back on these videos, it’s almost funny that they were impossible to find! Petco was practically giving mine away (if not a pure Pulchra, something similar) bc they could never sell it. It’s about 3”-4”
I think that some random pet stores had them in stock...who knows where they got them from as 3-4" captive bred specimens are NOT easy to find.
Hi Tom and/or people with brazilian black. I was wondering if you have some advice for me. I got a 5 gallon tank with the substrate less than half filled that is still moist (a little too moist so I'm letting it dry more). I live in the basement which is colder than room temperature so I bought a ceramic heat emitter. I don't have her just yet but I want to make sure her enclosure is perfect. Do you guys have any tips for a complete beginner? Thanks
Hello, Dre! What are your temperatures in your basement? I definitely wouldn't use a ceramic heater, as those can quickly overheat and kill a spider. If it's cold enough that you would need an extra heat source (less than 60 or so), then you could used a heat mat on the SIDE of the enclosure.
I'm just getting into this hobby and I've decided to start with one of these beauties. I was curious what you think the best substrate is. I've seen a lot in coconut shaving mixtures. What are your thoughts?
Hi, Cody! Coco fiber is one of the more popular substrates to use. It works perfectly fine. Topsoil works great as well. It honestly comes down to personal preference. I've used both without issue! Here's an article I did on substrates that explains the pros and cons of each:
tomsbigspiders.com/2014/07/30/choosing-the-right-substrate-for-your-tarantula/
Welcome to the hobby!
Do quirog and pulcha have the same behavior or are differences known?
Hi, John! They seem to have similar dispositions.
She is gorgeous Tom!!! You're right, I believe they need to be bred when they mature and be put back into the hobby. They're amazing spiders to say the least. Great video and very informative as always. Tyfs God bless you
Thanks, Debbie! Yeah, we definitely need to get some babies here in the states! :) Thanks again!
Hey Tom, just saw this is like 4yrs old, just got my very first G pulchra a female as all my Ts are females lol, it’s around 2in in LS atm so my tiniest for a while.
Congrats! This one here turned out to be a male. :)
Thanks for sharing Tom, as always, great video. My G.Pulchra is over 8 yrs now, as adult, she only preferres drier side and 'tells me off' or rather starts turning around when she sense I start misting her tank, even a bit of it 😞💦
Hahaha. She sounds like she has quite the personality! Thanks so much. :)
Tom is back and this time with a black Labrador but in spider form
Edit: holy moly almost 10k subs
Hey, Eric! Hahaha. I love the nickname "black lab of tarantulas". lol
Yup, I'm getting there. Slowly but surely. :)
I picked up one from Fear Not and one from Joe Rossi...they were both the same size when I got them but since one has covered its burrow in premolt I’m assuming while the other is happily munching away...not sure if that is any indication of having a male (growing faster) and a female or not, but I’m hoping! Check back in a few years, lol! Another awesome video, always look forward to them!! 😊
Hey, Christine! Sorry for the delay...I got really behind!
Someone else was saying they bought two at the same size, and one is outpacing the other. Let's hope you guys have one of each sex. :) Thanks so much!
I know you have allot of videos in the works and not allot of time, but id really love to get an update on your pulchra!! cant wait till my little guy is as big as yours. (many many years away lol)
Hi, William! I'm sure I can do something! :)
@@TomsBigSpiders haha cheers i keep comeing back to these 2 videos to glimpse into my ts future keep up the good work!
Hahaha. That's awesome.
Awesome video as always Tom. thanks for the time and effort you put into the hobby. It's inspiring. Also if you don't mind me asking? Where do you get your 32 oz deli cups. Lol I've been having a little trouble finding the clear ones.
Thank you for the very kind words! :)
Ummmmm...that's a great question! The first time I bought the 32-oz deli cups, they were quite milky and NOT what I was looking for. Let me see if I can find you a link..
Okay, I think I bought the last batch from a place that's not in business anymore. These are the ones I will likely be buying next time:
www.amazon.com/Solo-32oz-Deli-Container-50ct/dp/B01C4MLCHG/ref=sr_1_14_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1521985143&sr=8-14&keywords=32%2Boz%2Bclear%2Bdeli%2Bcontainers&th=1
Tom Moran thank you so much. That's the problem I was having. I couldn't find any that wasn't milky. And the one that I did find. you had to buy 500 lol and I don't need that many.....yet . Thanks alot .
That was exactly what happened to me! haha. I ordered 25, and they were thick and milky. I finally found a vendor who was selling the, but he closed. These SHOULD be the clear ones!
I'm taking my family to our first invert show tomorrow and I might get G. Pulchra. Tom is there any reason why you are not using Dubia roaches? I don't think I've seen any in your vids. great info as usal!
That's fantastic! Good luck, and I hope you find one! :)
I have a dubia roach colony, and I just fed out a couple dozen of them today. haha I get better feeding responses from some of them with the crickets, so I usually use them when filming.
Between this and a Chaco Golden Knee ( Grammostola Pulchripes) wich one would be better for a first time tarantula..?
I would honestly call it a tossup for me. The G. pulchripes seems to grow a bit faster, so you might use that as the tie breaker!
Hello Tom, I was wondering of you own a
Cyriopagopus minax? If so do you plan on doing a video that would include that species? I plan on purchasing one as my first old world species. I tried search your channel but was unable to locate a video on them soI thought I would reach out and ask, thank you.
Hello! Sadly, I do not. That said, I REALLY need to get one soon!
@@TomsBigSpiders awesome, can't wait to see what you think of it 🙂
I have two G. pulchra that I got as 1/2 inch slings from Jamie's Tranchulas. They are not quite juveniles yet. I don't know if they are 'sac mates' or not but one is definitely growing faster then the other. So if they are male and female, I'm guessing I shouldn't try to breed them. What do you think?
Man, hopefully you have a male AND female. That would be great! :) Supposedly, inbreeding spiders doesn't have the same impact that inbreeding vertebrates has. That said, the male will likely mature long before the female is ready.
I have a friend who keeps and breeds T`'s and hes nagging on me for months, showing me pictures and offers me deals for enclosures... so i said "FINE! just hold your tits, i have to inform myself first" So i found your channel and watched your beginner species vid and out of all the channels ive seen you seem very chill and professional about it and the way you talk (clear and well pronounced) makes it easy for me (i`m german) to understand you. So i'm going to watch some more and i asked my friend if he allows me to feed one of his spiders, so i can get a feel for it, id like to be better safe than sorry and as stunning as they are, they need care and i dont want to endanger the spiders life because i'm too afraid to apply measures thateep them healty. The more i feel informed, the less pressure i have on me. Thanks for providing this nice channel :-)
Hello, Tobi! Thank you so much...that's a heck of a complement. I always worry that I talk too quickly as I'm trying to cram in as much info as possible. I'm so glad that you're feeling more confident in keeping them. :) Hopefully, you feel ready to get one soon.
Awesome cradle of filth shirt Tom! I’m thinking of purchasing this species at an expo coming up. Always wanted an all black tarantula!! Any other recommendations as far as all black docile-ish T’s? Thanks again brother! And thanks for the info!
Ha! Thanks so much, Abe! They really are stunning. My son came down and saw my freshly molted young adult yesterday and said, "Oh my God...it's all black? That's my new favorite tarantula." haha Unfortunately, there aren't many all black ones out there! There is the Aphonopelma steindachneri, but I've never seen it in the hobby.
Tom Moran These are my dream tarantulas! I’ve been trying to find one for a very very long time and would be willing to buy one for a very generous amount of money. But so far no luck. Wish I had ur contact so I could pick ur brain about it haha. My email is abhaammm13@gmail.com if u ever get a chance! Thanks again Tom ur videos are really awesome brother!
Ps: congrats to ur son for his molting, That’s awesome to hear!!
Ps: congrats to ur son for his molting, That’s awesome to hear!!
What do you use as substrate?
My G. Pulchra sling needs some other substrate than coco fibre. :'D
You can use peat or regular topsoil.
She is a beauty Tom.
Thank you, Joyce! :)
I appreciate this video. This one is next on my list. Question: Do you feed any of your tarantulas Dubia roaches? I hate keeping crickets. That is a staple for my juvie. I already keep them for my reptiles. Also feeding slings BSFLs? I hear contrary information on doing that because they are high in calcium.
Thank you! Yup, I have a dubia colony and feed a lot of my larger tarantulas dubia. I don't like keeping crickets, but some of my tarantulas don't eat the roaches. As for BSFLs, I honestly haven't heard that one before. It sounds a bit strange to me. I would assume that they would be fine.
Tom Moran awesome. Thank you replying!
Tom Moran I picked up a sling this weekend at an expo. Price was not a surprise. I paid $75. This sling is about 1/2". Pretty intimidating but it was a have to have. It came with pretty wet cococoir (spelling?) and nothing else inside its cup. I swapped the substrate out for a mixture of top soil, peat moss and vermiculite. Would it be beneficial to the sling if I add a tiny pc of cork bark and maybe a tiny faux leaf? I have xs dubia to feed after its molted.. since it very premolt now. I just want to get this as right as possible.
Thanks again!
Just curious what's the minimum substrate depth for this species?
Hi, Dave!
As slings, you want to give them enough room to burrow without them getting lost. I once gave a 1" sling 3", and it burried itself at the bottom and didn't come up to eat.
For adults, it depends. If it's still burrowing, 5" or so. If not, a few inches.
Where are you located at love listening thanks for sharing
I'm in Connecticut, USA. Thanks!
@@TomsBigSpiders I would love to order tarantula from you I let you know when I live like in Northern California