They may look creepy and crawly, but tarantulas play an important role in our ecosystem that can’t be ignored. Watch the video to learn more from Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild Co-Host Peter Gros.
Plus, check out these tarantula facts:
- There are around than 900 tarantula species.
- Male tarantulas live five to seven years, while females live up to 30. Males usually die shortly after mating.
- They live on all continents except Antarctica. In the U.S., wild tarantulas are found in the Southwest region.
- Tarantulas hunt at night, focusing mainly on insects, but also toads, frogs and mice.
- Like other spiders, tarantulas spin webs, but not to catch prey. Instead, these webs are part of their mating rituals.
Discover more tarantula facts and learn about other spooky animals.