Goliath Birdeater

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Description

Goliath birdeaters are the heaviest spiders in the world.

Range & Habitat

Found In: Suriname, Guyana, northern Brazil and southern Venezuela/Upland rain forests, marshes, and swamps

Behavior

Diet

Carnivore. Diet consists mostly of earthworms, and occasionally small rodents, amphibians, and reptiles, despite the name “birdeater”

Conservation

Habitat loss, the exotic pet trade, and hunting are the major threats to this species

Fun Facts

• Like other tarantulas, the Goliath birdeater’s body is covered with stinging hairs that the tarantula can release to irritate the skin and mucous membranes of predators. Their fangs are large enough to pierce the skin of a human, but their venom is about as strong as a wasp’s.