Tarantula questions

Why would you consider getting a pet if you know off the bat that you're unwilling to meet the basic biological requirements of that pet?

OP here. Not at all what I said. Thanks for the comment though. Very helpful.

File: 6843678764_b9935532c9_b.jpg (307KB, 1024x744px) Image search: [Google]

307KB, 1024x744px

Aside from a few species, those temps are rough guidelines. If your house is in the 70s during the day and mids 60s at night, it's fine. They'll just grow slower. You can place them next to your computer tower if you have a desktop or rig up an ambient heating system using an UTH, heat lamp that's not direct on the containers at all or a space heater to keep them warmer. Increasing the air temperature in the general area is key, not the substrate or the enclosure.

Poecilotheria subfusca likes it cooler though if you wanna dance with the devil in the pale moonlight.

OP here. That is great info. Thank you. I read a lot about lights but did not want to use one. I read a lot of people use heat pads, but they can be tricky. My only other real question is whether to try and raise a sling or go for a juvenile. Slings seem sort of intimidating because they are so small. I do not want a mature though because they are so expensive and obviously you have less time with them.

File: IMG_7621e.jpg (668KB, 1024x720px) Image search: [Google]

668KB, 1024x720px

>>2087454
>obviously you have less time with them

Eh, I had those thoughts when I started too, but these shits live for 10-30+ years unless you get a male.

As far as slings or juvies, it depends on what species you want. You don't want an Aphonopelma sling starting out, for example. Takes too long to grow. You'll have a 1/2" thing for a year or more. P. subfusca would be best as a sling to get accustomed to their behavior over time. A spider that can put you in the hospital isn't the best to start out with though. GBBs are good at any size and hardy. Worth getting a sling for the color change, in my opinion.

Juvies are more expensive but have higher survival rates in general. Slings are cheap and you can get multiples to offset that and increase your chances of a female.

OP here. I am planning on getting a GBB, so that is good to know. Lots of people say they are good beginners. Having trouble finding them right now, though a couple people have said to try a Reptile show and I know there is one in my area every couple of months.