Honduran Curly Hair Tarantula, Curlyhair Tarantula
Tliltocatl albopilosus
Theraphosidae (Tarantulas), Order Araneae. Characterized by large size, dense hair, and downwards-pointing fangs (Mygalomorphae).
Physical Description
A robust, heavy-bodied ground spider. The most striking feature is its dense covering of long, curved or 'curly' setae (hairs) that give the spider a woolly or frizzy appearance.
Size Estimate
Leg span typically ranges from 5 to 6 inches (13-15 cm) in adults. This specimen appears to be a sub-adult or adult based on the density of the curly 'wool'.
Coloration & Markings
Base color is dark brown to black. Overlaid with long, bronze to golden-tan curly hairs. The carapace is typically dark with a bronze sheen.
Web Type
Terrestrial burrower; does not build prey-capture webs. It uses silk to line the entrance of its burrow and to detect vibrations from passing prey.
Eye Arrangement
Small ocular tubercle on the front of the carapace containing eight eyes in a tight, compact group, typical of Theraphosidae.
Leg Characteristics
Thick, sturdy legs covered in characteristic long, curly bristles. Features thick scopulae (dense pads of hair) on the feet for climbing and gripping surfaces.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Mildly venomous. The venom is not considered medically significant to humans; its primary function is to immobilize small prey. Potency is often compared to a bee sting.
Medical Significance
Low danger level. Bites are rare and usually cause localized pain and swelling. The urticating hairs are more likely to cause irritation, itching, or respiratory issues if inhaled.
Safety Recommendations
Handle with care to avoid falling (which is fatal for tarantulas). Use a soft brush to move them. Wash hands after contact to remove irritating urticating hairs.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Native to the Atlantic side of Central America, specifically Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. They inhabit tropical scrubland and rainforest floors.
Behavior & Temperament
Relatively slow-moving and generally docile. It is a sit-and-wait ambush predator. If threatened, it may kick urticating hairs from its abdomen rather than biting.
Diet & Prey
Opportunistic carnivore. Diet consists of insects like crickets and dubia roaches, and occasionally small vertebrates like lizards or pinky mice in the wild.
Seasonal Activity
In the wild, they are active year-round but mating usually coincides with the rainy season when males wander to find females.
Description
An iconic New World tarantula, the Curly Hair is beloved by hobbyists for its unique fuzzy appearance and calm nature. It spends much of its time rearranging substrate or waiting at its burrow entrance.
Key Features
Distinctive long, curly, bronze-colored hairs over a dark brown/black body; large terrestrial build; lack of bright 'warning' colors seen in other species.
Similar Species
Tliltocatl vagans (Mexican Red Rump) which lacks curly hair and has red abdominal hairs; Brachypelma hamorii which has distinct orange leg bands.
Life Cycle
Females can live up to 20-25 years, while males live significantly shorter lives (5-7 years). They reach maturity in 3-5 years. Females produce an egg sac containing 300-500 spiderlings.
Ecological Importance
Acts as a population controller for insects and small invertebrates. They serve as a food source for larger predators like mammals, birds, and specialized wasps (Pepsis).
Conservation Status
Listed under CITES Appendix II to regulate international trade. Threatened by habitat loss and over-collection for the pet trade.
Interesting Facts
The curly nature of their hair is a unique genetic trait; they are one of the most popular 'beginner' species in the exotic pet trade due to their hardiness and predictable temperament.
Photography Tips
Focus on the carapace and the texture of the curly hairs. Avoid using high-intensity flashes too close to the spider, as they are sensitive to light and vibrations.
Identified: 2026-07-06T19:32:20.930658