Mexican Red Rump (Tliltocatl vagans)

The Mexican Red Rump Tarantula, scientifically known as Tliltocatl vagans, is a captivating species native to Mexico and parts of Central America. Renowned for its striking appearance and intriguing behaviors, this tarantula is highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors.

The Mexican Red Rump Tarantula gets its common name from the distinct red hairs that cover its abdomen, creating a striking contrast against its black body. This coloration serves as a warning sign to potential predators, as it indicates the presence of urticating hairs that the tarantula can flick when threatened.

Despite its vivid appearance, the Mexican Red Rump Tarantula is known for its generally docile and calm temperament. It is often favored as a pet species due to its ease of care and relatively relaxed nature. It may display defensive behaviors when threatened, such as rearing up on its hind legs or rubbing its abdomen with its hind legs.

In its natural habitat, this species constructs burrows as its shelter, which it lines with silk for added protection. It is primarily nocturnal and feeds on insects and small invertebrates, using its strong fangs and venom to subdue its prey.

TYPE
New World - Terrestrial

SCIENTIFIC NAME
Tliltocatl vagans

ORIGIN
Mexico

HABITAT
Sling- Sling box or 16oz deli cup
Juvenile - 7x4x4 enclosure
Sub-Adult - 9x6x6 enclosure, 2 ½ or 5 gallon tank
Adult - 12x8x8 enclosure or 10 gallon tank
Provide them with a cork bark hide, water dish, a little sphagnum moss (optional) and straight coco fiber. However a substrate like jungle mix or creature soil which is mainly peat moss, a little soil and a small amount of sand. Coco fiber works very well and is the least expensive.

DIET
Roaches, crickets and mealworms is our recommended foods. However, superworms are also acceptable when they reach adulthood.

TEMPERATURE
73-80F, heating generally isn’t a concern with this species, and they do well at room temperature.

HUMIDITY
65%-75%, slings should stay on lightly moist substrate, adults should have a water dish and a corner of their enclosure that goes through a wet/dry cycle, moistening the substrate and then leaving it alone until it dries out.

ADULT SIZE
Adults can reach up to 6" diagonal leg span.

LIFESPAN
4-15 years (Males 4-5 years, with females drastically outliving them at 15+ years)

SOCIAL BEHAVIOR
We do not recommend keeping tarantulas as they will cannibalize each other. Its best to keep tarantulas in individual enclosures.