Whether or not you can pet a spider depends on the type of spider and your comfort level with handling spiders. Most spiders do not enjoy being handled or petted. However, some species are more tolerant than others if you approach them carefully and gently.
Can I pet a pet tarantula?
Pet tarantulas are the most common type of spider that people actively handle. Tarantulas are relatively docile, move slowly, and typically won’t bite unless severely provoked. With proper precautions, pet tarantulas can be handled safely.
Pet tarantulas may tolerate gentle touching and petting, especially on their legs and back. Avoid touching their abdomen area. Always support their body weight from below if lifting them up. Move slowly and calmly so as not to startle them. Never grab at their legs or squeeze their bodies.
It’s best to get your tarantula accustomed to your touch gradually. Let it walk onto your hand at its own pace when first getting acquainted. With regular, gentle handling sessions, pet tarantulas can become quite tame and may appear to “enjoy” human interaction.
Can I pet a wild spider?
It’s generally not a good idea to touch or pet unknown wild spiders. You have no way of knowing if they may bite or be venomous. Some spiders also have sensitive hairs on their bodies that act as defense mechanisms and can cause skin irritation if touched.
Certain non-venomous spiders like jumping spiders and orb weavers may allow gentle handling if you move slowly and avoid grasping at them. But unless you have expertise identifying spider species, it’s better to look and not touch wild spiders. Admire them from a safe distance.
What are the risks of petting a spider?
Here are some potential risks to be aware of when petting spiders:
- Bites – All spiders can bite if mishandled or feeling threatened. Bites may be painful and in rare cases cause severe reactions.
- Urticating hairs – Some tarantulas and other spiders have hairs they can flick or rub off that can irritate skin and eyes.
- Falling – Spiders may suddenly jump or fall if startled. Try handling close to the ground.
- Escaping – Fast moving spiders like jumping spiders can quickly run off and get lost if not held securely.
- Germs – Wild spiders may carry bacteria, parasites, or fungi that could potentially infect open wounds.
What precautions should I take when handling spiders?
If you do wish to pet a tarantula or other tolerant spider species, some basic handling precautions include:
- Wash your hands before and after.
- Work over a soft surface in case of falls.
- Support the spider’s body weight from below.
- Avoid sudden movements.
- Do not squeeze or restrict movement.
- Watch for signs of distress like rearing up.
- Handle for short periods to avoid stress.
- Use slow movements when first establishing handling.
What spiders can I safely pet?
Here are some of the most handleable pet spider choices:
Tarantulas
Species like the Chilean rose hair tarantula are gentle and move slowly. They can become acclimated to regular human touch.
Jumping spiders
Jumping spiders are active but not typically aggressive. They have good vision and are often naturally curious about people.
Orb weaver spiders
Orb weavers like garden spiders allow handling but their webs are delicate. They also move quickly.
Wolf spiders
Wolf spiders often appear in homes yet are generally not defensive. They can be picked up but may run fast across your hand.
Are there any spiders I should never try to pet?
Here are some spiders to avoid touching:
- Brown recluse spiders – Venomous with potentially serious bites
- Black widow spiders – Highly venomous, can inject strong neurotoxins
- Brazilian wandering spiders – Considered the world’s most venomous spiders
- Sydney funnel-web spiders – Aggressive and highly venomous
- Banana spiders – Large, fast moving, and will bite in defense
- Sac spiders – Venom can cause skin necrosis in some cases
In general, it’s wisest never to touch unfamiliar wild spiders, especially if you can’t identify them. Leaving them undisturbed is the safest approach.
Can petting spiders be beneficial?
Beyond satisfying curiosity, safely interacting with spiders can have some benefits including:
- Overcoming arachnophobia and fear of spiders through exposure.
- Learning more about spider behaviors and characteristics.
- Gaining an appreciation for an unpopular yet fascinating animal.
- Enjoying a novel, hands-on educational experience under supervision.
- Bonding with a new pet tarantula and taming it to enjoy handling.
Conclusion
Petting spiders can be an intriguing experience but also carries inherent risks. With proper handling technique and choosing docile species, it may be done safely. However, it’s wise to avoid touching virtually all wild spiders given the potential for bites and toxicity. If undertaking spider handling, take utmost care and put safety first.