Overview

• Tens of thousands of male tarantulas have emerged across South Texas grasslands and deserts driven by high temperatures and moisture.
• Female tarantulas remain concealed in burrows while males traverse up to a mile seeking mates and often fall victim to predators, vehicles, or exhaustion.
• Experts note that tarantula bites resemble bee stings and are generally mild, but allergic reactions can pose a risk for sensitive individuals.
• Wildlife authorities recommend nighttime or pre-dusk observation and advise against handling tarantulas to avoid triggering defensive hairs and bites.
• La Junta, Colorado, advises residents to observe tarantulas an hour before dusk from mid-September to October in the Comanche National Grassland.