Salmon Pink Birdeater Tarantula

Lasiodora parahybana Care Guide

The Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Lasiodora parahybana, known as the Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater Tarantula, is a stunning and fast-growing New World species endemic to the humid, dense forests of northeastern Brazil. With a diagonal leg span reaching up to 11 inches (28 cm), though many specimens range between 8 and 9 inches, this species is among the largest tarantulas in the world. Despite its imposing size and the presence of Type I and III urticating hairs, L. parahybana is generally docile. Its robust nature, rapid growth (adults can be reached within two years), and impressive longevity (females live up to 15 years, males around 5 years) make it an attractive option for beginners. However, due to its size and the need for careful handling of its defensive hairs, advanced care and thoughtful enclosure setup are critical.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Lasiodora parahybana

• Common Name: Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial (New World)

• Endemic Location: Northeastern Brazil

• Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): Up to 11” (28 cm) (most specimens 8–9”)

• Urticating Hairs: Yes, Types I & III

• Growth Rate: Medium to Fast

• Life Expectancy:

  • Females: Up to 15 years

  • Males: Around 5 years

• Recommended Experience Level: Beginner

What Makes Lasiodora parahybana So Special?

The Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater Tarantula is renowned for its impressive size and striking appearance. Its vibrant salmon-pink hues, especially visible in certain lighting conditions, and its massive leg span make it a true showstopper in any collection. Despite its size, it is known for a generally docile temperament. However, like many large New World tarantulas, it may use its urticating hairs defensively if threatened. Its fast growth means that even small slings can quickly become impressive adults, making it a rewarding species for dedicated keepers.

Taxonomy, Etymology & Natural Environment

Lasiodora parahybana, commonly known as the Salmon Pink Birdeater, is one of the largest tarantulas in the world, rivaling Theraphosa species in sheer size. First described by Mello-Leitão in 1917, this New World terrestrial species is highly sought after for its massive leg span, rapid growth rate, and impressive feeding response. With adults reaching 9–10 inches (23–25 cm) in leg span, L. parahybana is an iconic species in the hobby, known for its bold nature and striking pinkish setae covering its legs and abdomen.

The genus name Lasiodora is derived from Greek, meaning "hairy gift," referencing the dense bristles and urticating hairs covering its body. The species name parahybana refers to Paraíba, Brazil, the region where this tarantula was first discovered.

Behavior & Temperament

Despite its intimidating size, L. parahybana is often described as bold rather than defensive. It is not prone to biting, but it does possess Type III urticating hairs, which it will readily kick when disturbed. These hairs can cause significant irritation, so caution is advised when performing maintenance in its enclosure.

This species has an aggressive feeding response, often lunging at prey with force. It is also an active species, frequently seen out in the open, making it an excellent display tarantula compared to more reclusive burrowing species.

Although it is not considered highly defensive, its large size, fast movements, and strong feeding response mean handling is not recommended. This tarantula can move quickly when startled, making it important for keepers to respect its space.

Natural Range & Habitat

Native to northeastern Brazil, particularly in the Paraíba region, Lasiodora parahybana thrives in warm, humid environments, including tropical forests, grasslands, and scrublands. This species is an opportunistic burrower, meaning it will excavate shallow retreats in loose soil or take shelter under logs and debris.

Its natural habitat experiences seasonal rainfall and fluctuating temperatures, so it has adapted to moderate humidity levels and a relatively dry surface environment. In captivity, proper ventilation and humidity balance are key to ensuring its well-being.

Housing & Substrate – Terrestrial Species

When setting up an enclosure for your tarantula, remember that the general rule of thumb is that the enclosure should be no smaller than three times the leg span of the tarantula. This is the bare minimum. For juveniles, aim for a minimum of 3–4 times the leg span, always leaning towards more room rather than less, so you can observe natural behaviors. For adults, a minimum of 3 times the leg span is acceptable, but 4 or even 5 times the leg span is ideal, depending on the species. Keep in mind, however, that while extra space can encourage natural movement, tarantulas do not usually move far beyond their burrows. Therefore, an enclosure that is too large can increase the risk of escape, as tarantulas are escape artists, if they can squeeze their carapace through a gap, they can also squeeze their abdomen through it. Always ensure that ventilation holes, lids, and doors are appropriately sized to prevent escapes.

Spiderlings

• Enclosure Size: Use a small enclosure (no smaller than three times the tarantula’s leg span) such as a Sling Crib, 3" Tarantula Cube, Small Slider Crib, Small Cuboid, Terrestrial Sling Crib, Slider Crib Mini, or Cuboid Mini. Smaller enclosures are ideal for spiderlings so you can monitor their eating and molting. Note that smaller enclosures dry out faster, so regular misting or substrate saturation is required.

• Substrate: Fill at least 2/3rds of the enclosure with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude.

• Humidity: Maintain a slightly damp substrate (but not swampy) by offering a small water dish or gently dripping water on one corner about once a week.

Juveniles

• Enclosure Size: Juveniles should be housed in enclosures with a minimum size of 3–4 times their leg span. More room is preferable, but avoid enclosures that are too large to prevent the tarantula from escaping through gaps. A Medium Slider Crib, 6" or 8" Tarantula Cube, or Medium Cuboid works well.

• Substrate: Fill the enclosure half full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude. This depth provides ample space for burrowing while minimizing the distance of a fall.

• Humidity: Keep the substrate mostly dry with a full water dish; occasionally, overflow one corner to create a slightly damp area.

• Additional Features: Provide a half cork bark round as a secure hide and include a shallow water dish sized appropriately for the tarantula’s leg span. Also, consider adding a few cross branches or other decorations to serve as web anchors.

Adults

• Enclosure Size: For adults, the minimum enclosure should be at least three times the tarantula’s leg span, though 4–5 times is better if you wish to observe more natural movement. Suitable enclosures include a Large Slider Crib, 12" Cube, 18" Cube, or Terrestrial XL. Ensure the enclosure is a square or horizontal rectangle—wider than it is deep—to minimize fall risk.

• Substrate: Fill the enclosure half full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude. This provides sufficient depth for burrowing while reducing the risk of injury from falls.

• Additional Features: Include a secure hide (ideally a half cork bark round), a shallow water dish, and tasteful decorations. Always verify that ventilation holes, gaps around lids, and doors are too small for your tarantula to squeeze through.

Note: Consider using Tarantula Cribs with the affiliate code TTC10 to save 10% on your enclosure purchases.

Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: Maintain ambient temperatures between 68°F and 76°F (20°C to 24°C).

• Humidity: Aim for moderate humidity. Ensure the substrate remains moist in the lower layers for effective burrowing while allowing the top layers to dry between waterings to prevent mold growth.

Feeding Schedule

Spiderlings

• Frequency:
  Feed twice a week.

• Prey:
  Offer small prey such as flightless fruit flies, confused flour beetles, or pre-killed tiny crickets/roach nymphs. Remove any uneaten prey after 24 hours. increase the size of the prey as the spider grows. Prekill any prey that is over 2/3 the size of the sling. For more detailed information on feeding spiderlings, watch this video: How To Feed Spiderlings & Scorplings (Baby Tarantulas & Scorpions)

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 24–48 hours after a molt before feeding. Ensure that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is not soft or shiny.

Juveniles

• Frequency:
  Feed every 7–10 days.

• Prey:
  Provide 2–3 small to medium crickets or a medium Dubia roach.

• Feeding Guidelines:

  • If the abdomen is thinner than the widest part of the carapace, feed more prey more often.

  • If the abdomen is wider than the carapace, feed less prey, less often.
    This strategy helps prevent obesity, which can lead to molting complications or increase the risk of an abdomen rupture from even a small fall.

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 3–7 days after a molt before feeding, ensuring that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened.

Adults

• Frequency:
  Feed every 2–3 weeks (or as needed).

• Prey:
  Offer 4–5 large crickets or one large Dubia roach.

• Feeding Guidelines:

  • If the abdomen is thinner than the carapace’s widest part, increase feeding frequency.

  • If the abdomen is wider than the carapace, reduce feeding frequency.
    This is crucial to avoid obesity, which can interfere with proper molting or cause dangerous issues such as an abdomen rupture.

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 5–10 days after a molt before feeding, ensuring that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened.

Breeding Lasiodora parahybana in Captivity

Breeding Lasiodora parahybana (Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater) in captivity is a rewarding endeavor, given their impressive size and relatively straightforward care requirements. With proper preparation and attention to detail, enthusiasts can successfully propagate this species.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males typically reach maturity within 2–3 years, developing longer legs and, in many species, tibial hooks on the first pair of legs, along with bulbous pedipalps for sperm transfer.

• Female Maturity: Females generally mature around 3–4 years, achieving a robust size indicative of reproductive readiness.

• Pre-Pairing Preparation: We should ensure the female is well-fed before introducing the male to minimize the risk of cannibalism. Some breeders recommend slightly increasing humidity prior to pairing to encourage receptiveness.

Mating Process

• Introduce the male into the female’s enclosure during the evening or nighttime when tarantulas are more active.

• The male will typically perform courtship behaviors, such as tapping or drumming, to signal his presence.

• If receptive, the female may respond with similar behaviors or remain still, allowing the male to approach and attempt copulation.

• After successful mating, promptly remove the male to prevent potential aggression from the female.

Egg Sac Production

• If fertilized, the female may produce an egg sac approximately 4–8 weeks after mating.

• Maintain temperatures around 75–80°F (24–27°C) with humidity levels between 70–80%, ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth.

• An egg sac can contain a substantial number of eggs, with reports indicating clutches ranging from 600 to over 1,000 eggs.

Egg Sac Handling (Optional)

• Some breeders choose to remove the egg sac from the female after 30–40 days for artificial incubation.

• If left with the mother, spiderlings (slings) will typically emerge within 6–8 weeks and undergo their first molt to the second instar stage within 3–4 weeks thereafter.

Raising Spiderlings

• L. parahybana spiderlings exhibit a medium to fast growth rate and require stable humidity with proper ventilation.

• Provide enclosures with sufficient substrate to accommodate their burrowing behavior and include structures for web attachment.

• Feed them appropriately sized prey, such as pinhead crickets or flightless fruit flies, every 2–3 days to support healthy development.

Challenges & Considerations

• Size and Space Requirements: Given their potential size, ensure enclosures are spacious enough to accommodate their growth and activity levels.

• Feeding Response: L. parahybana are known for their strong feeding responses, so caution is advised during maintenance to avoid accidental bites.

• Humidity Sensitivity: Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial, as spiderlings are particularly susceptible to desiccation.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a massive terrestrial species with an unbeatable feeding response, Lasiodora parahybana is hard to top. These giants are bold, hardy, and one of the fastest-growing tarantulas out there. Watching them go from tiny slings to hulking adults is an experience in itself. They may not be the flashiest tarantulas in terms of color, but their sheer size and attitude make them a favorite for those who appreciate impressive, no-nonsense spiders.

Additional Recommendations:
For enclosures, consider Tarantula Cribs with the affiliate code TTC10 for a 10% discount, and use Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate. For purchasing tarantulas online, check out Spider Shoppe (use code TTC10 for 10% off). Also, visit the Dealer & Discounts section on my website for a curated list of recommended dealers and discount codes.

Additional Scientific Information

• Size & Growth:
  Lasiodora parahybana is one of the largest tarantulas in the world. Its rapid growth allows individuals to reach adult size in as little as two years, with females typically living up to 15 years and males around 5 years.

• Ecological Role:
  In its native habitat, this species helps regulate populations of large invertebrates. Although often sensationalized as “bird-eating,” its diet primarily consists of sizeable invertebrates, which contributes to the ecological balance of the tropical forests of northeastern Brazil.

• Defensive Mechanisms:
  The combination of Types I and III urticating hairs serves as an effective defense, deterring predators with irritating particles that can cause significant discomfort. Additionally, its powerful fangs and potent bite provide a strong deterrent despite the venom being not medically significant to healthy adults.

• Handling & Welfare:
  Due to its large size and potential for injury from falls, careful enclosure design is critical. Minimizing the depth of substrate to half-full helps reduce the risk of fall-related injuries. Overfeeding is also a major concern, ensuring the abdomen is proportionate to the carapace is essential to prevent obesity, which can lead to molting complications or even an abdomen rupture.

• Further Reading:
  For more detailed taxonomic and ecological studies on Theraphosidae, consult recent publications in the Journal of Arachnology and ZooKeys.