Pink-Toe Tarantula
Avicularia avicularia
Velvet-black body with iridescent blue highlights and vibrant pink tarsi. Arboreal, active at dusk, docile for its type.
Species profile
Price & availability
Price depends on size (sling / juvenile / adult). All specimens captive-bred with documentation. Includes care sheet and 30-day WhatsApp support.
About this species
The pink-toe is one of the most photogenic tarantulas in the hobby — the contrast between its dark body, blue sheen, and vivid pink feet is genuinely striking. It is an arboreal species (tree-dweller), which means its care requirements differ significantly from ground-dwelling species. The most common mistake new keepers make with Avicularia is giving them too much humidity with too little airflow — this causes respiratory infections and is fatal. Cross-ventilation through mesh panels on opposite sides of a tall enclosure is essential.
Pink-toes are notably docile for arboreal tarantulas — they are far less likely to bite than most Poecilotheria or Psalmopoeus species. When stressed, their primary defence is to flick urticating hairs from their abdomen. These hairs cause skin and eye irritation; avoid getting them near your face.
This is an intermediate species because of the enclosure ventilation requirements and because slings are delicate. Juveniles and adults are robust and forgiving.
Frequently asked questions
What size enclosure does a pink-toe tarantula need?
Arboreal enclosures with height greater than floor area — 20×20×40 cm minimum for adults. Provide cork bark tubes or hollow wood for retreats, fake vines or driftwood for climbing, and ensure cross-ventilation through mesh panels on at least two opposing sides. A damp paper towel at the base maintains humidity without waterlogging.
Do pink-toe tarantulas bite?
Rarely. They are considered docile for arboreal tarantulas. When stressed, they typically flick urticating hairs rather than biting. Bites happen when the spider feels cornered — give it a clear escape route during maintenance and you will almost never be bitten.
Can I keep a pink-toe in India during monsoon?
Yes, but ventilation becomes critical. Indian monsoon creates high ambient humidity — good for most species, but Avicularia needs that humidity moving, not stagnant. If your enclosure ventilation is adequate, monsoon is no problem. If you see condensation on the enclosure walls or mould in the substrate, increase airflow immediately.