Need advice! Getting my first T

[Fizzypine]

I am planning on going to purchase my first Tarantula soon. I have set up a 12 x 12 x 18 terrarium that i feel would be good for a Pink Toed tarantula. I have done lots of research and I would just like some tips and advice. Thank you in advance.

 

[Poec54]

Avics aren't a good choice for beginners. They have a narrower range of acceptable conditions and many beginners lose theirs before they get that dialed in. You're much better off with a hardy terrestrial that's more forgiving while you get up to speed.

 

[Fizzypine]

Avics aren't a good choice for beginners. They have a narrower range of acceptable conditions and many beginners lose theirs before they get that dialed in. You're much better off with a hardy terrestrial that's more forgiving while you get up to speed.

Which species do you suggest? And is the current tank acceptable

 

[Therasoid]

Avics aren't a good choice for beginners. They have a narrower range of acceptable conditions and many beginners lose theirs before they get that dialed in. You're much better off with a hardy terrestrial that's more forgiving while you get up to speed.

+1
I agree with Poec54, a terrestrial species such as a juvie or sub adult Brachypelma albopilosum is my suggestion. They are easy to care for, very hardy, good eaters, out in the open, reasonable priced and a docile T. Get the basic husbandry down first then get some faster moving terrestrial species.
Don't be in a rush and after a year start getting OW, there are so many beautiful NW species to have first. Take it one step at a time and you will enjoy this addictive hobby immensely.
Let us know what your 1st T is.
Best wishes and happy T'ing. [emoji3]

 

[Poec54]

B albopilosum is a great choice as are other Brachypelma, like vagans, smithi, emilia, etc. As is Grammostola pulchripes and pulchra.

The various Aphonopelma from the SW US are tough as nails and calm/docile.

 

[spidey noob]

i third the B,albopilosum idea awsome little Ts

 

[Fizzypine]

Would the Brachypelma albopilosum be OK in the same size tank? I am also considering a rose hair would this T be OK?
Thanks for all the help.

 

[HungryGhost]

Is the tank 18" tall? If so it's not really suited for a terrestrial tarantula. Terrestrial T's need more floor space than height. Also it depends on the size of the tarantula when you get it. Don't buy a T to suit your enclosure, buy a T to suit your level of experience, budget, taste.

 

[Fizzypine]

Is the tank 18" tall? If so it's not really suited for a terrestrial tarantula. Terrestrial T's need more floor space than height. Also it depends on the size of the tarantula when you get it. Don't buy a T to suit your enclosure, buy a T to suit your level of experience, budget, taste.

Thanks for the tips. I was thinking of placing the enclosure on its side for a terrestrial.

 

[Fizzypine]

I have redesigned the enclosure to make it more suitable for a terrestrial T
The light is purely for veiwing purposes

 

[Therasoid]

I have redesigned the enclosure to make it more suitable for a terrestrial T
The light is purely for veiwing purposes

That looks fine, but add more substrate. Rule of thumb is 1 1/2 times the Diagonal Leg Span of space from top of substrate to top of enclosure. The temp/humidity gauges aren't needed and usually not all that accurate. I advise against a G. rosea/porteri as a 1st T. They can be docile for a time frame then after a molt become very defensive. They are prone to long durations of not eating and this will freak out 1st time keepers. As Poec54 stated keep with Brachypelma or the Aphonopelma are the best,IMO, starter Ts to begin with. Or the couple of Grammostola Poec54 listed are good starter Ts.

 

[Fizzypine]

That looks fine, but add more substrate. Rule of thumb is 1 1/2 times the Diagonal Leg Span of space from top of substrate to top of enclosure. The temp/humidity gauges aren't needed and usually not all that accurate. I advise against a G. rosea/porteri as a 1st T. They can be docile for a time frame then after a molt become very defensive. They are prone to long durations of not eating and this will freak out 1st time keepers. As Poec54 stated keep with Brachypelma or the Aphonopelma are the best,IMO, starter Ts to begin with. Or the couple of Grammostola Poec54 listed are good starter Ts.

Okay thank you. I'll add more substrate and remove the temp gauge