A Complete Guide to Owning a Mexican Redknee Tarantula

The Mexican Redknee tarantula (Brachypelma hamorii or Brachypelma smithi) is one of the most iconic and sought-after tarantula species in the UK. Known for their striking black-and-orange colouring and calm temperament, they make an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced tarantula enthusiasts. This guide will provide everything you need to know about owning and caring for a Mexican Redknee tarantula.

Why Choose a Mexican Redknee Tarantula?

Native to the semi-arid scrublands of Mexico, the Mexican Redknee is an adaptable and hardy species. Its manageable size, docile nature, and longevity make it a popular pet tarantula. Key benefits include:

• Stunning Appearance: Their vibrant orange leg joints contrast beautifully with their black body.
• Docile Temperament: They are generally calm and rarely aggressive, making them ideal for beginners.
• Longevity: Females can live for 20-30 years, while males typically live 5-10 years.
• Low Maintenance: Their care requirements are straightforward and cost-effective.

Housing Your Mexican Redknee Tarantula

Enclosure

A well-designed enclosure is essential for your tarantula’s health and comfort. Key considerations include:

• Size: A 30x30x30 cm terrarium or plastic enclosure is sufficient for adults. Tarantulas are not highly active, so they don’t require much space.
• Substrate: Use a deep layer (5-10 cm) of coconut fibre, topsoil (chemical-free), or a sand-soil mix. This allows for burrowing and maintains appropriate humidity.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow to prevent mould and dampness in the enclosure.

Decor and Hiding Spots

• Hide: Provide at least one hiding spot, such as a piece of cork bark or a hollow log, for your tarantula to feel secure.
• Minimal Decorations: Tarantulas are not climbers, so keep decorations simple and ground-level to avoid risks of falling.

Temperature and Humidity

Mexican Redknees thrive in a controlled environment:

• Temperature: Maintain a range of 22-26°C. A heat mat placed on the side of the enclosure can help regulate temperature, especially in colder months.
• Humidity: Aim for 50-60% humidity. Mist sparingly, allowing the substrate to dry out between sprays.

Use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor these conditions.

Feeding Your Mexican Redknee Tarantula

Diet

Mexican Redknees are insectivores. Their diet should include:

• Crickets
• Locusts
• Dubia Roaches
• Mealworms (occasionally, as they are high in fat)

Feed adults once every 7-10 days. For juveniles, offer smaller prey more frequently, such as every 5-7 days. Remove any uneaten prey within 24 hours to prevent stress or injury to your tarantula.

Water

Always provide a shallow water dish. Ensure it is clean and filled with fresh water. Avoid sponges, as they can harbour bacteria and are unnecessary.

Handling Your Tarantula

Mexican Redknees are generally calm, but handling should be minimal to avoid unnecessary stress or injury. They are delicate creatures, and a fall from even a short height can be fatal.

If you decide to handle your tarantula:

1. Wash your hands to remove any strong scents.
2. Gently coax the tarantula onto your hand using a soft paintbrush or similar tool.
3. Stay close to a soft surface in case of an accidental fall.

Note: Like many New World tarantulas, Mexican Redknees can flick urticating hairs as a defence mechanism. These hairs can irritate skin and eyes, so handle with care.

Health and Common Issues

Mexican Redknees are robust, but you should keep an eye out for the following:

• Lethargy: Can indicate dehydration or unsuitable environmental conditions.
• Refusal to Eat: This is normal before a moult but should not persist for weeks without other signs of moulting.
• Abnormal Appearance: Injuries, swelling, or discolouration could signal health problems.

Moulting

Tarantulas periodically shed their exoskeleton as they grow. Signs of an impending moult include:

• Loss of appetite.
• Reduced activity.
• Dull or darkened colours.

During moulting, ensure your tarantula is undisturbed. Provide a humid microclimate by lightly misting the enclosure. Avoid feeding until the new exoskeleton hardens, which can take up to a week.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

In the UK, owning a Mexican Redknee tarantula is legal, but ethical sourcing is crucial:

• Purchase from Reputable Breeders: Ensure your tarantula is captive-bred to avoid contributing to the illegal wildlife trade.
• Commitment: Remember that females can live for decades, so ensure you’re prepared for a long-term responsibility.

Cost of Ownership

Mexican Redknee tarantulas are relatively affordable to care for. Here’s an overview of the typical costs:

• Tarantula: £40-£80, depending on size and age.
• Enclosure Setup: £50-£100, including substrate, hides, and decor.
• Food: £5-£10 per month for live insects.
• Utilities: Minimal additional cost for heating and maintenance.

Final Thoughts

The Mexican Redknee tarantula is a captivating pet, offering beauty, longevity, and low maintenance. With proper care and respect for their natural behaviours, they can thrive in captivity and provide years of fascination and enjoyment.

Before committing to owning a Mexican Redknee, ensure you have the resources, knowledge, and dedication required to meet their needs. They are a rewarding species, perfect for tarantula enthusiasts of all levels.

If you’re ready to bring a Mexican Redknee tarantula into your life, welcome to the fascinating world of tarantula keeping!