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An animal rescue worker has described his shock at finding a collection of more than 20 tarantulas abandoned in an empty flat in overturned plastic tubs, some of which did not have secure lids.
The RSPCA was called to the apartment at Bramhall Court, Cannon Street in Salford on 23 June, and recovered four of the arachnids that were still alive.
Animal Rescue Officer David Cottingham from the charity said it was "very upsetting" to find many of the spiders dead in containers which were scattered across the floor.
The RSPCA confirmed it has rehomed the remaining tarantulas, and believes all of the spiders have been accounted for.
Mr Cottingham said he was "lucky" to have been able to save four of the spiders when he was called to the flat on 23 June.
He said the case highlights why "exotic pets, including invertebrates like tarantulas, should only ever be kept by individuals who fully understand and are prepared for the commitment and responsibility involved".
A former tenant admitted they had left the spiders behind and signed over ownership to the RSPCA "through a third party", the charity said.
But they were unable to confirm exactly how many spiders had been kept in the collection, and estimated as many as 22.
The living tarantulas have been rehomed with a reptile specialist.
Mr Cottingham said "Tarantulas require specific housing, temperature, and humidity levels to survive - conditions that had clearly not been met.
"These spiders suffered needlessly due to abandonment and neglect."
Source BBC News, Manchester.
