Mexican Red Knee Tarantula

Brachypelma hamorii

The Mexican red knee tarantula, Brachypelma hamorii, is a terrestrial tarantula from dry Pacific-slope regions of Mexico. It is recognized by its dark body, pale-edged carapace, and orange-red bands on the leg joints that give the spider its name. Females can live for many years, grow slowly, and spend much of their time near a burrow or shelter rather than roaming constantly.

Captive-bred Mexican red knees are well established in the arachnid hobby, but the species still deserves careful sourcing because wild collection has been regulated. A suitable setup is dry to moderately humid, well ventilated, deep enough for burrowing behavior, and furnished with a hide and steady water access. Handling is best kept minimal: falls can injure heavy-bodied tarantulas, and defensive urticating hairs can irritate skin and eyes even when the spider is not trying to bite.