July 18th, 2018 by Chris Chapman

Brazilian Bird-Eating Spider Babies Found in Car Park, Sparking Fears Adult Tarantulas Escaped

The RSPCA has warned that two bird-eating tarantulas could be on the loose in Derbyshire after a container of spiderlings was found in a car park in the village of Somercotes. The Brazilian bird-eating spider mainly eats insects, small mammals and small birds The container was accidentally run over by a car in the car park, with witnesses claiming they saw two large spiders running away. Upon closer investigation, the container was revealed to contain three baby Brazilian salmon pink bird-eater spiders, one of the largest species of spider in the world. They can grow to have a leg span of around 25cm. Brazilian salmon pink bird-eating spiders get their name from their appearance. While the spiders are mostly black, when mature they are covered in pink markings and hairs. These hairs are barbed and the spider can flick them onto anything that makes the spider feel threatened. This makes the spiders fairly dangerous as even though they rarely bite, these hairs can cause allergic reactions and blindness. The tarantulas normally live in the Brazilian rainforests and would not be able to survive in the British climate. However, experts fear that the current spell of warm, humid weather could mean that the spiders may survive longer than expected and they could be roaming through nearby villages looking for shelter. Also discovered were several containers that were believed to contain the spiders’ eggs. The rescued baby spiders and eggs were taken to a vet in Nottingham where they will be safely kept until they are ready to be rehoused. If you live near Somercotes and suspect you have come into contact with a Brazilian salmon pink bird-eating spider, it is advised that you keep away from the area and call the RSPCA immediately. The tarantulas are not aggressive and will rarely bite, but they may if they feel threatened. Under no circumstances should you attempt to squash or kill the spider as the barbed hairs on its body can cause severe health problems, especially in children or pets.

Spider Repellent

Spider repellent will keep spiders away from your home Even though it is unlikely you will come across these particular tarantulas, it is highly likely you will find plenty of native large spiders around your house as spider season begins. Spider season is when spiders move indoors in late summer to shelter from the cooler weather. Use spider repellent around your door and window frames, as well as any air vents or cracks in your walls to help keep spiders out of your home. For more information, read our guide to spider season preparations here.