If you are curious about the food that tarantulas eat, there are several factors that you should know. Generally speaking, the prey items that they eat are small insects. However, some keepers will prefer to feed them larger insects on a regular basis. You can feed them medium-sized items two or three times a week.
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Crickets
Crickets are an excellent meal for many different types of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. These insects are available in a variety of sizes and can be purchased at most pet stores. They are also cheap when purchased in bulk. They can be kept alive for up to three days in a critter keeper, modified plastic storage container, or egg carton. Some people also feed the crickets dry oats or potato slices.
House geckos
House geckos are not dangerous and can be kept as pets. They are very hardy and are fun to watch. However, you must take care when feeding them. A small amount of food should suffice for a day or two. They should not be fed regularly. Ideally, you should feed them once every two weeks or bi-monthly. They are easily purchased for under $5 and can be placed in the enclosure live.
Lizards
We know that spiders may be the main predators of lizards in certain environments. Although we cannot be sure of the exact role of these creatures, they may play an important role in lizard communities. The Chacoan subregion on the Atlantic coast is a prime example of such a habitat, where spiders are commonly reported as lizard predators. Further quantitative studies are necessary to confirm or refute this finding.
Toads
Tarantulas and toads share a common habitat. While most tarantulas feed on other invertebrates, some have evolved to eat toads. Among these species is A. hentzi, which has been found in many areas. This toad shares similarities with the tarantulas of McCurtain County.
Frogs
It is widely known that tarantulas can eat frogs. They have a commensal relationship with a number of species, including Xenesthis immanis, Poecilotheria ornata, and Poecilotheria cf. subfusca. This association does not have any benefits for the spiders.
Birds
Tarantulas are a type of terrestrial spider in the order Theraphosa, and they are sometimes called bird-eaters. The common name was given to this species by Maria Sibylla Merian, a Dutch explorer, after she observed a tarantula eating a hummingbird. Other tarantula species, such as the Goliath Birdeater, are known to eat birds and small mammals. They often live in burrows on the forest floor and eat other insects, rodents, and other spiders.
Mice
Tarantulas are carnivores and they love eating mice. Their stomachs break down large food particles and absorb the nutrients it contains. After digesting it, they form a ball and discard the carcass. They also enjoy eating other insects like ants, which are full of protein and fats.
Rats
Rats and mice are good sources of protein for tarantulas, but feeding them live is not a good idea. Live mice can injure your tarantula and should not be offered to your pet. The best option is to feed pinkies that have just died, since these are low in fat and are safe for your pet. However, if you are feeding your tarantula frequently, pinkies can cause obesity and complications.
