Nature’s Most Fang-scinating Hunters

What has eight legs, two fangs, and is covered in hair? If you said a tarantula, you’d be correct! Of all of nature’s most fang-tastic creatures, these large spiders are some of the most known for their pointy “teeth.” But unlike the other species featured in this newsletter, tarantula fangs are not actually teeth — at least not in the traditional sense of the word.

Tarantula fangs are made of a material called chitin, unlike mammal teeth which are formed from dentin and enamel. These fangs are part of a larger mouthpart called the chelicerae, which consist of two appendages that end in fangs. Hollow on the inside, these fangs act like tiny syringes and are used to inject venom into their prey.

While hunting, tarantulas bite their prey. Once their fangs have sunk in, venom travels down through the hollow structure and into the opening of the bite. The venom then subdues and liquefies their prey, allowing the spider to “drink” up their meal, which usually consists of crickets, roaches, and other small insects.

Despite their impressive hunting prowess, tarantulas’ fangs pose little risk to people. Their venom is designed to subdue insects and other small prey. A bite from a tarantula typically results in only mild irritation, like a bee sting, and most species would opt to flee before resorting to a bite.

The Zoo has multiple tarantulas living behind-the-scenes as ambassador animals, including Harry, a curly hair tarantula, and Morticia, a Chilean rose hair tarantula. Together, they help to teach people about the important role tarantulas play in our ecosystem and dispel some of the “scary” perceptions commonly associated with spiders. From natural pest control to soil aeration, spiders like Harry and Morticia are critical parts of a healthy ecosystem.

Thanks to donors like you, millions of guests can continue to learn about the importance of animals like tarantulas all year long. Thank you!