Brachypelma hamorii “Red-kneed tarantula”

Brachypelma hamorii – The colorful classic among tarantulas

Brachypelma hamorii, often referred to as the Mexican red-kneed tarantula, is one of the best-known and most popular tarantula species in the terrarium hobby. Its striking appearance with its deep black legs, bright orange-red knee joints and contrasting golden-brown carapace makes it a real eye-catcher. This color intensity is also retained in adult animals for many years and ensures that B. hamorii is appreciated worldwide.

The species originates from the dry, bushy regions of Mexico, where it lives in burrows it has dug itself or taken over from other animals. It spends a large part of its life in or near its burrow and exhibits a rather calm, unhurried behavior. Due to its even-tempered nature and robustness, it is valued by many keepers as an ideal beginner’s spider – however, it should always be treated with respect as, like many New World species, it uses stinging hairs for defense.

A terrarium with minimum dimensions of around 30 × 30 × 30 cm is recommended for keeping them. A dry, burrowable substrate of sandy loam or coconut humus with occasional, light moistening provides ideal conditions. A shelter such as a cork tube or half a coconut shell will be gratefully accepted. A small water bowl should always be available to support the basic humidity and provide the spider with drinking water. The temperature in the terrarium should be between 24 and 28 °C, at night it can drop to room temperature. A humidity of 60-70 % is ideal.

Brachypelma hamorii grows relatively slowly and with good care can reach a life expectancy of over 20 years, with females growing significantly older than males. The diet is uncomplicated – crickets, crickets, cockroaches and occasionally smaller grasshoppers are readily accepted. Young animals can be provided with smaller food according to their size.

This species is not only a highlight in any collection because of its beauty, but also because of its longevity and calm temperament. Anyone looking for a visually impressive, robust and long-lived tarantula will enjoy the Brachypelma hamorii for many years.

Note on the reporting obligation:

This species of tarantula is subject to compulsory registration. Proof of origin is required by law for this animal. If you order a species subject to registration from us, you will automatically receive a link to download the relevant certificate with your order confirmation. This means you have all the necessary documents to hand immediately and can store them digitally or in printed form.