Knowra Goliath birdeater Goliath birdeater The Goliath birdeater is a large tarantula native to northern South America. It eats mainly invertebrates and small vertebrates, and can defend itself with irritating abdominal hairs.
Urticating hairs : Specialized hairs that some spiders and caterpillars release to irritate or injure potential threats. The birdeater flicks these abdominal hairs toward attackers, causing skin and eye irritation.
Tarantula : A large, hairy spider belonging to the family Theraphosidae. The Goliath birdeater is one of the largest members of this spider family.
Tropical rainforest : A warm, forested ecosystem with high rainfall and abundant biological diversity. The species inhabits humid forests in northern South America.
Pinkfoot goliath tarantula : A large South American tarantula, Theraphosa apophysis, distinguished by pink markings on its legs. It is a close relative often confused with the Goliath birdeater.
Theraphosa blondi : The scientific name of the Goliath birdeater, a tarantula species described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. This binomial identifies the species behind the familiar common name.
Spider venom : A mixture of compounds produced by spiders, commonly used to subdue prey or deter threats. Its bite delivers venom that helps subdue prey, though the hairs are a prominent defense.
Theraphosidae : A family of large, often hairy spiders commonly known as tarantulas. This is the taxonomic family that includes the Goliath birdeater.
Burrowing : The construction or occupation of tunnels and chambers in soil or other substrates. It shelters in ground burrows that provide refuge and a place to ambush prey.
Salmon pink birdeater : A large tarantula species, Lasiodora parahybana, native to Brazil. Its common name and impressive size make it another frequent comparison.
Theraphosa stirmi : A large tarantula species in the genus Theraphosa, native to northern South America. It is another close genus-mate whose appearance overlaps with that of T. blondi.
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