Tarantulas are a type of spider, although, they are distinguishable by several characteristics, including being generally larger and hairier than most other spiders.
Tarantulas also have fangs that point downwards, unlike fangs of most spiders, and they have two spinnerets instead of the six that are found in most types of spiders.
These spinnerets help tarantulas produce silk, but instead of using it to trap prey in webs, they use it primarily for burrow construction and for creating "trip lines" that detect movement.
What is a Louisiana tarantula? Are they dangerous? What to know
Louisiana is home to the Texas brown tarantula, also known as the Louisiana tarantula, and it is native to the state. These spiders can be found in central and north central Louisiana, especially in sandy uplands, forests and grasslands, according to the LSU AgCenter.
While these tarantulas are rarely seen, due to their burrowing lifestyle, they can be spotted during their mating season, which occurs from late August to October, when males venture out in search of females, says the LSU AgCenter.
The Louisiana tarantula is a large, hairy spider that is typically brown in color, with a leg span of about four inches. These spiders prefer to burrow in sandy, well-drained areas and are often found near rocks and logs, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
These tarantulas are usually docile and are not considered a threat to humans. Also, their bites are not medically significant, unless an individual has an allergic reaction. When threatened, they may fling tiny, barbed hairs from their abdomen, which can cause irritation and itching, says the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
If you come across a Louisiana tarantula, focus on prevention and exclusion, rather than trying to eliminate them entirely, as they are beneficial to the environment. Therefore, relocating them is often the best approach.
Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at [email protected]
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Are there tarantulas in Louisiana? State's one species of tarantula
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