Species · GBIF taxon 2153596
California Ebony Tarantula
Aphonopelma eutylenumAlso known as Ebony Tarantula, California Ebony Spider
California ebony tarantulas spend most of their lives deep inside silk-lined burrows, emerging primarily at night to ambush passing insects. During the late summer and autumn, mature males abandon their shelters and wander long distances in search of females, making them highly visible to hikers. These gentle giants rely on camouflage and urticating abdominal hairs to deter predators rather than venomous aggression.
NocturnalBurrowingDocile
1 / 7- diet
- Insects, spiders, and occasional small lizards
- family
- Theraphosidae
- threats
- Urban development, road mortality, and pesticide use
- life Span
- Females live up to 25 years; males live 5 to 7 years
NE
Can kick irritating abdominal hairs or deliver a painful bite if handled; observe from a respectful distance.
Possesses urticating hairs that cause severe skin and eye irritation, and can deliver a painful bite if cornered.
Observe quietly without poking or cornering the spider, and never blow on or touch its abdomen.- Watch the Roads: Look out for wandering males crossing paved trails and roads during warm autumn evenings.
- Look for Burrows: Search for silver dollar sized holes lined with silk in dry, undisturbed soil.
- Avoid Touching: Refrain from handling to prevent the spider from kicking irritating urticating hairs into your skin or eyes.