Mexican Redknee Tarantula Care (Brachypelma hamorii)
Quick Overview
Lifespan: ♂️ 5–7 years, ♀️ 20+ years
Adult Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) leg span
Native Region: Pacific coast of Mexico
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Temperament: Docile and calm
Enclosure & Habitat Setup
Enclosure Type
Recommended Enclosure Type: Terrestrial
Minimum Enclosure Size: 12″x12″x8″ (30x30x20 cm)
Substrate Depth: 3–5 inches (8–13 cm)
Temperature & Humidity
Preferred Temperature: 70–80°F (21–27°C)
Humidity Range: 60–70%
Ventilation Notes: Moderate airflow with cross-ventilation preferred
Feeding & Growth
Feeding Frequency:
Juveniles: 2–3 times per week
Adults: Once every 7–10 days
Typical Prey: Crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
Growth Rate: Slow
Molting Behavior: Often fasts before a molt and may seal off its burrow or hide; recovery can take several days to over a week
Breeding & Sexual Dimorphism
Sexual Maturity Age:
Males: ~4–5 years
Females: ~7+ years
Breeding Difficulty: Moderate
Visual Differences Between Sexes:Males are leggier with tibial hooks and bulbous pedipalps when mature
Females are stockier and live significantly longer
Notable Facts & Care Tips
Species-Specific Challenges or Quirks:
This species may go on long fasts without health issues—don’t panic if it refuses food for weeks.Comparison to Similar Species:
Often confused with Brachypelma smithi, but hamorii tends to have more distinct leg banding and a slightly calmer temperament.In-the-Wild Insight:
In its natural habitat, B. hamorii builds shallow burrows along dry scrublands and avoids overly humid conditions.
FAQ
A: Yes! Its calm nature and hardiness make it a popular first tarantula.
A: Very slowly. It may take 7–10 years to reach full size, especially females.
A: They may flick hairs if annoyed, but rarely bite. Their urticating hairs can irritate skin and eyes.
Photos & Videos
Final Thoughts
The Mexican Redknee is a longtime favorite among hobbyists for its bold coloration, gentle demeanor, and classic tarantula look. While not especially active, its appearance alone makes it a standout display species and a great ambassador for beginners learning tarantula care.
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