Arizona Blonde Tarantula

Deserts, arid scrublands, and grasslands in the Southwestern United States (primarily Arizona) and Northern Mexico.

Carnivorous; feeds primarily on insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, and beetles, as well as small lizards or other arthropods.

Nocturnal, ground-dwelling, and burrow-building predator. Females are long-lived (up to 20-30 years) and tend to stay near their burrows, while males travel during mating season in late summer and fall.

Generally harmless to humans with mild, bee-sting-like venom; can flick urticating hairs from their abdomen as a defense mechanism which causes skin irritation. Highly beneficial to the ecosystem by controlling pest insect populations.