How to Set Up an Enclosure for Two Tarantulas?
Provide a comfortable habitat for two tarantulas with these essential steps and a minimum of 8 square feet of space.
Space Requirement
Start with an enclosure that provides at least 8 square feet of space for two adult tarantulas. This ensures ample room for movement and growth.
An enclosure with a 20-inch depth is ideal to prevent the tarantulas from climbing out and to provide a comfortable space for burrowing.
- Minimum 8 square feet of space
- Enclosure depth: 20 inches
- Secure lid and ventilation
Setup Order
1. Choose the space: Select an enclosure with a secure lid and proper ventilation. A glass terrarium or a plastic enclosure with a mesh top works well.
2. Get the environment stable: Set the enclosure in a location with consistent temperatures and away from direct sunlight. Aim for a temperature range of 72–82°F (22–28°C).
3. Add cover: Provide two hideaways for your tarantulas, such as two hollow logs or caves. This should be large enough for each tarantula to fit inside.
4. Add essentials: Include two water dishes, two climbing structures, and a substrate that mimics the tarantula's natural habitat.
- Secure lid and ventilation
- Consistent temperature 72–82°F (22–28°C)
- Two hideaways for each tarantula
- Two water dishes
- Two climbing structures
- Substrate that mimics natural habitat
Day One Checklist
On the day you set up the enclosure, make sure you have the following in place:
1. Enclosure with secure lid and ventilation
2. Temperature gauge
3. Humidity gauge
4. Two water dishes
5. Substrate
6. Two hideaways
7. Two climbing structures
- Enclosure with secure lid
- Temperature gauge
- Humidity gauge
- Two water dishes
- Substrate
- Two hideaways
- Two climbing structures
Common Setup Mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes when setting up your tarantulas' enclosure:
1. Inadequate space: Ensure the enclosure is large enough for the tarantulas to move around and grow.
2. Incorrect temperature: Maintain a stable temperature range of 72–82°F (22–28°C) to prevent stress and health issues.
3. Poor ventilation: Ensure the enclosure has proper ventilation to prevent mold growth and maintain humidity levels.
4. Inadequate hiding spots: Provide multiple hiding spots to allow each tarantula to feel secure.
- Adequate space for movement and growth
- Stable temperature range 72–82°F (22–28°C)
- Proper ventilation
- Multiple hiding spots
Temperature and Humidity Control
Monitor the temperature and humidity daily to ensure they remain within the appropriate range for your tarantulas' species.
Use a heat mat placed under one side of the enclosure to create a thermal gradient, allowing the tarantulas to regulate their own body temperature.
Maintain humidity levels between 40–80% by misting the enclosure as needed. Use a hygrometer to measure humidity.
- Daily temperature and humidity monitoring
- Use a heat mat for thermal gradient
- Humidity levels between 40–80%
- Misting as needed
- Hygrometer for humidity measurement
Keep reading about Tarantula: Tarantula care sheet
Related questions
How much space does a pair of 6-inch tarantulas need?
A pair of 6-inch tarantulas needs an enclosure of at least 8 square feet.
What temperature should a tarantula enclosure be?
The temperature should be maintained between 72–82°F (22–28°C).
How often should I check the humidity in the enclosure?
Check the humidity daily to ensure it stays within the appropriate range for your tarantulas' species.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your tarantula is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.