Bald spot

[paulcfc]

This has probably been asked before but my b smithi has had a for want of a better word bald arse for going on 6 months.Is this normal?

 

[Casey K.]

This has probably been asked before but my b smithi has had a for want of a better word bald arse for going on 6 months.Is this normal?

It's normal. They do this when they are disturbed. They rub the setae off their abdomen as a deterrent to anything that may be bothering it. A breeze, prey or even handling can cause them to do it. Also, right before they molt, they will lay a mat of this setae down on top of their webbing....I'm not sure if it's for extra "cushion" or what but I've witnessed it quite a few times, myself. The bald spot isn't dark, yet so it may not be too close to a molt. Time will tell. No need for alarm.

 

[paulcfc]

Thanks for that Casey....put my mind at rest.

 

[Casey K.]

Thanks for that Casey....put my mind at rest.

You're welcome.

 

[DustyD]

As Casey K pointed out it could be the T is reacting to something in its environment, so maybe try and think what could be causing it, then avoiding that thing.

Then again it could be part of the natural progression of the stages of moulting.

Then again, tarantulas can be goofy and you just don't know what or why they are doing that. I suspect mine are just trying to screw with my head.

 

[paulcfc]

Well a ,month and half and the arse is getting fat to burst...but no moulting as yet.

 

[paulcfc]

looked into the tank and nothing i think could make her nervous...only taken her out today to take pics.....just let nature take its course i suppose.