If you’ve ever wondered just how big the Goliath bird eating spider is, you’re about to be amazed. This spider isn’t just large-it’s the largest tarantula in the world by mass and one of the biggest spiders by leg span. Let’s dive into the fascinating size and features of this giant spider that can make even the bravest shudder.
The Giant Among Spiders: Size and Dimensions
The Goliath bird eating spider, scientifically known as Theraphosa blondi, holds the record as the heaviest spider on Earth. Its body alone can measure up to 5.1 inches (13 centimeters) in length, roughly the size of a small smartphone. But what really impresses is its leg span, which can reach up to 11 to 12 inches (28 to 30 centimeters)-about the diameter of a dinner plate. This makes it the second largest spider by leg span, just behind the giant huntsman spider.
In terms of weight, this spider can tip the scales at around 6 ounces (170 to 175 grams), making it not only long but also quite hefty for an arachnid. Imagine holding a small apple in your hand-that’s roughly how heavy this spider can be!
What Does This Size Mean in Real Life?
With legs stretching nearly a foot wide, the Goliath bird eating spider is a formidable sight. Its body is covered in dense, coarse hairs that range from light beige to dark brown, helping it blend into the forest floor of its native habitat in northern South America. These hairs are not just for show-they are sensitive to vibrations and can even be flicked at predators as a defense mechanism, causing irritation.
Its fangs are another highlight, measuring about 0.75 inches (2 centimeters) long. These powerful fangs are capable of injecting venom to subdue prey, which can include insects, frogs, lizards, and even small mammals. Despite its intimidating name, the Goliath bird eating spider rarely hunts birds, but it can if the opportunity arises.
How Does It Compare to Other Spiders?
| Feature | Goliath Bird Eating Spider | Giant Huntsman Spider | Average Tarantula |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body Length | Up to 5.1 inches (13 cm) | Around 4.7 inches (12 cm) | Around 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) |
| Leg Span | Up to 12 inches (30 cm) | Up to 12.5 inches (32 cm) | Around 5-6 inches (12-15 cm) |
| Weight | Up to 6 ounces (175 grams) | Less than Goliath (lighter) | Much lighter (few ounces) |
| Habitat | Northern South America (rainforest) | Australia (various habitats) | Various worldwide |
This comparison shows why the Goliath bird eating spider is often called the “king of spiders”-it’s massive, heavy, and built for power.
How Does Its Size Affect Its Lifestyle?
The Goliath bird eating spider is primarily nocturnal and terrestrial, spending much of its time on the forest floor or in burrows it digs. Its large size allows it to prey on a wide variety of animals, including insects, amphibians, small snakes, and occasionally birds or bats. It doesn’t build webs to trap prey but instead relies on stealth and strength to ambush its victims.
Once it captures prey, it uses its venomous fangs to immobilize it, then liquefies the insides with digestive enzymes before sucking up the nutritious liquid. This feeding method is common among tarantulas but is especially impressive given the size of the prey this giant spider can handle.
Fascinating Facts About the Goliath Bird Eating Spider’s Size
– Leg span nearly a foot wide: This allows it to cover ground quickly and intimidate predators.
– Heavyweight champion: At up to 6 ounces, it’s the heaviest spider alive.
– Long fangs: Nearly an inch long, perfect for delivering venom.
– Sensitive hairs: Its body hairs detect vibrations, helping it sense danger or prey.
– Rare bird predation: Despite its name, it rarely eats birds but can if the opportunity arises.
Why Is It Called the “Bird Eating” Spider?
The name “Goliath bird eating spider” comes from an early 18th-century illustration by Maria Sibylla Merian, who depicted this spider eating a hummingbird. While this spider is capable of eating birds, such events are rare. Its diet mostly consists of large insects, frogs, lizards, and small mammals. The name stuck because it highlights the spider’s impressive size and hunting capability.
Where Can You Find This Giant Spider?
The Goliath bird eating spider lives in the rainforests of northern South America, including countries like Brazil, Venezuela, Guyana, and Suriname. It prefers swampy, marshy areas deep in the primary rainforest where it can dig burrows and hunt at night.
Living With the Giant: What to Know
Despite its fearsome size, the Goliath bird eating spider is not aggressive toward humans unless provoked. It uses its size and defensive hairs to deter predators rather than attacking. It can live for 15 to 25 years, taking up to 10 years to reach full maturity.
Final Thoughts
The Goliath bird eating spider is a true giant of the spider world, with a leg span nearly a foot wide and a body heavy enough to impress anyone. Its size allows it to be a powerful predator in its rainforest home, feeding on a variety of prey and defending itself with unique adaptations.
This spider’s remarkable size and fascinating lifestyle make it a captivating subject for anyone interested in the wonders of the natural world.
The Goliath bird eating spider is truly a giant among arachnids, combining impressive size with fascinating behavior.