Mexican Red Rump Tarantula; Red-rumped Tarantula
Brachypelma vagans (likely)
Family Theraphosidae (Tarantulas), Order Araneae. Characterized by downward-pointing chelicerae and heavy hair covering.
Physical Description
Stout-bodied mygalomorph with a velvety black cephalothorax and a dense covering of hair on the abdomen. The abdomen is notably covered in long, reddish-orange hairs known as setae.
Size Estimate
Estimated leg span of 3-5 inches (7-12 cm). Based on the container, this appears to be a juvenile or sub-adult specimen.
Coloration & Markings
Jet black legs and cephalothorax with a distinct patch of rust-red to bright orange hairs on the dorsal side of the abdomen. No distinct banding is present on the legs in this specimen.
Web Type
None for hunting. They are burrowing spiders that use silk to line their tunnels or create 'alarm' tripwires around the burrow entrance.
Eye Arrangement
Small ocular tubercle located centrally on the anterior of the cephalothorax containing 8 eyes in a tight cluster; typical of tarantulas which rely more on vibration than sight.
Leg Characteristics
Thick, powerful legs covered in fine sensory hairs. The last segments feature claw tufts and scopulae that allow them to climb smooth surfaces.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Mildly venomous. The venom is designed to immobilize small prey and is not considered medically significant to humans.
Medical Significance
Low danger. Bite symptoms are comparable to a bee sting (localized pain and swelling) unless the person has a rare allergy. Urticating hairs cause skin and eye irritation.
Safety Recommendations
If found, do not handle with bare hands to avoid urticating hairs. Use a cup and stiff paper to relocate. Wash hands thoroughly if contact with the spider or its enclosure occurs.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Native to Mexico and Central America; also found as an invasive species in Florida. Prefers tropical deciduous forests and scrublands.
Behavior & Temperament
Terrestrial opportunistic hunter. Generally docile but can be skittish; defensive behavior often involves 'flicking' irritating urticating hairs rather than biting.
Diet & Prey
Carnivorous; feeds primarily on insects like crickets and roaches, but larger individuals may take small lizards or mice in the wild.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round in tropical climates; peak activity for males occurs during the rainy season as they wander in search of mates.
Description
A popular and striking tarantula known for its velvety black body and 'burning' red abdomen. It is a classic New World tarantula frequently kept in the pet trade due to its hardiness.
Key Features
Total black cephalothorax and legs contrasting sharply with long, red abdominal hairs; lack of leg striping; ground-dwelling habit.
Similar Species
Brachypelma boehmei (Fireleg), which has red on the legs, and Tliltocatl albopilosus (Curly Hair), which has more uniformly colored, curly bristles.
Life Cycle
Slow-growing. Females can live up to 15-20 years; males live significantly shorter lives, dying shortly after reaching maturity (approx. 5-7 years).
Ecological Importance
Significant predator of agricultural pests like beetles and grasshoppers. They serve as a food source for larger predators like tarantula hawks and coatis.
Conservation Status
Listed on CITES Appendix II to regulate international trade; populations face threats from habitat destruction and over-collection for the pet trade.
Interesting Facts
This species has been successfully used in studies regarding the effects of tarantula venom on heart medicine. They are also excellent mothers, sometimes guarding egg sacs containing 300+ spiderlings.
Photography Tips
Shoot from a low angle to capture the profile of the cephalothorax. Use diffused natural light to highlight the red abdominal hairs without creating glare on the plastic cage.
Identified: 2026-07-06T18:49:15.094814