Urticating Hairs
Tiny, sharp hairs that some tarantulas can flick off their body to defend themselves.
What is it?
Urticating hairs are special hairs on the abdomen of some tarantulas. When the spider feels threatened, it uses its back legs to kick these hairs into the air. The hairs can stick in the skin or eyes of an attacker, causing irritation or itching. The Brazilian salmon pink bird-eating tarantula has these hairs. They are an adaptation for defense without using venom.
Why it matters
Urticating hairs are a clever way for tarantulas to protect themselves without biting. They can deter predators like small mammals or birds. Scientists study these hairs to understand how they work and to develop new materials.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more tarantulas with urticating hairs.