The fangs of the Goliath Bird-eating Tarantula (Theraphosa blondi) can exceed ½” in length. Belying its name this tarantula generally feeds on invertebrates and small vertebrates such as frogs, lizards and rodents. This remarkable animal is native to the rainforests of northern Brazil, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana where it faces an uncertain future due to habitat loss and over-collection for the pet trade.
Come see the Goliath Bird-eating Tarantula now on display at the World of the Insect.
Winton Ray
Curator of Invertebrates & Aquatic Animals
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
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