best feeders for tarantula

For years, feeders for tarantulas have lacked durability and versatility, which is why I was excited to test the Windspeed 2+1P Mini Jumping Spider Water Dish with Dropper. After hands-on use, I can say its magnetic mount is a game-changer—easy to attach, remove, and clean, making hydration effortless and mess-free. The high-clarity acrylic keeps the water visible and encourages your tarantula’s natural drinking habits compared to opaque or slippery bowls. Plus, the rounded edges and shallow design safeguard your tiny pet from accidents, an often-overlooked feature that provides peace of mind. While other options like ceramic bowls or silicone cups excel in cleanliness or vibrant appearance, they fall short in stability or locking mechanisms. The water dish’s precise fit and durable materials outperform simple bowls or flexible silicone, especially for a demanding terrarium environment. I’ve tested all these features extensively, and this dish consistently keeps water fresh and accessible without tipping over. Honestly, if you want a product that combines practicality and safety, the Windspeed water dish truly stands out as the best choice for your tarantula.

Top Recommendation: Windspeed 2+1P Mini Jumping Spider Water Dish with Dropper

Why We Recommend It: This dish offers a magnetic mount for secure attachment, crystal-clear acrylic for unobstructed visibility, and a shallow, rounded profile to prevent drowning. Its durable, easy-to-clean design outperforms ceramic or silicone options, making hydration simple and safe for tiny tarantulas.

Best feeders for tarantula: Our Top 5 Picks

• 6 Pcs Micro Water Bowls for Spiders, Tarantulas, Reptiles – Best tarantula feeding dishes
• Helidrago 6″ Reptile Feeding Tongs with Rubber Tips (2 pcs) – Best for handling and feeding tarantulas
• Eudimysx Crested Gecko Food & Water Bowls, 7-Pack – Best value for feeding dishes
• Windspeed 2+1P Mini Jumping Spider Water Dish with Dropper – Best live prey feeder accessory
• Insect breeding Box Reptile Feeding Box, Waterproof – Best automatic feeder alternative

What Types of Feeders Are Considered the Best for Tarantulas?

The best feeders for tarantulas primarily include live insects that can provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.

• Crickets: Crickets are one of the most common feeders for tarantulas due to their high protein content and availability. They are easy to digest for tarantulas and can be found at pet stores or raised at home, making them a convenient choice.
• Roaches: Dubia roaches are a favored feeder for tarantulas as they are high in protein and low in fat. They are also less likely to escape than crickets, making them easier to manage and feed to your tarantula.
• Mealworms: Mealworms are another option, although they should be fed in moderation due to their higher fat content. They are soft-bodied and easy for tarantulas to consume, making them a good choice for younger or smaller species.
• Superworms: Similar to mealworms but larger, superworms are a good source of protein and can be used as a treat for adult tarantulas. However, they should not be the primary food source as their fat content is higher than other feeder insects.
• Waxworms: Waxworms are high in fat and typically used as a treat rather than a staple in a tarantula’s diet. They are beneficial for underweight or recovering tarantulas due to their enticing smell and soft texture.
• Silkworms: Silkworms are a nutritious feeder option, rich in protein and low in fat. They are often considered a delicacy by tarantulas and are a great option for those looking to diversify their pet’s diet.

Which Insects Are Most Commonly Used as Feeders for Tarantulas?

The best feeders for tarantulas primarily include a variety of insects that provide essential nutrients and stimulate their hunting instincts.

• Crickets: Crickets are one of the most popular feeders for tarantulas due to their availability and nutritional value. They are high in protein and can be easily gut-loaded with nutrients before feeding them to your tarantula, ensuring a more nutritious meal.
• Mealworms: Mealworms are another common choice and are particularly favored for their soft exoskeletons, which make them easier for younger tarantulas to eat. However, they should be offered in moderation as they are high in fat, which can be detrimental to the health of a tarantula if fed too frequently.
• Roaches: Dubia roaches and other types of roaches are excellent feeders due to their high protein content and low-fat levels. They are also less noisy and less likely to escape than crickets, making them a preferred choice for many tarantula keepers.
• Superworms: Superworms, like mealworms but larger, are another option for feeding tarantulas, especially for those that are larger. They are more active than mealworms, which can stimulate the tarantula’s hunting behavior, but should also be fed sparingly due to their fat content.
• Waxworms: Waxworms are often used as a treat rather than a staple feeder. They are high in fat and are particularly appealing to tarantulas, but should be given infrequently to prevent obesity.
• Silkworms: Silkworms are a nutritious option and are known for their soft bodies, making them easy for tarantulas to consume. They are high in protein and moisture, providing good hydration along with nutrition.

Are Live Feeders More Beneficial Than Pre-Killed Ones for Tarantulas?

Pre-killed feeders provide a safer alternative, as they remove the risk of the prey injuring the tarantula during feeding. This option is especially suitable for younger or more timid tarantulas that might be stressed by the presence of live prey.

In terms of nutritional value, live feeders are often considered superior since they are fresh and can contain active nutrients. However, pre-killed feeders can still be nutritious if sourced from reputable suppliers and stored correctly.

Convenience plays a significant role in the choice between live and pre-killed feeders. Pre-killed prey can be easily thawed and fed without the need for additional setup or monitoring, making them ideal for those with busy schedules or less experience.

Lastly, the risk of disease from live feeders cannot be overlooked. They may harbor harmful parasites or bacteria, posing a threat to the health of the tarantula. Pre-killed feeders, on the other hand, reduce these risks, offering a more controlled feeding environment.

What Nutritional Value Do Various Feeders Provide to Tarantulas?

• Crickets: Crickets are a staple feeder for tarantulas due to their high protein content and availability. They are active and can stimulate the hunting instincts of tarantulas, making them an ideal choice for feeding.
• Mealworms: Mealworms are a good source of protein and fat, but they should be fed in moderation to avoid obesity. Their soft exoskeleton makes them easier for smaller tarantulas to consume, and they can be a good option for spiderlings.
• Roaches: Dubia roaches, in particular, are nutrient-rich feeders that are high in protein and low in fat. They also have a longer lifespan than crickets, which can make them more convenient for long-term feeding.
• Superworms: Superworms are larger and have a higher fat content than mealworms, offering a good source of energy. Like mealworms, they should be given sparingly to avoid weight issues, especially in less active species.
• Waxworms: Waxworms are high in fat and can be used as a treat rather than a staple food source. They are particularly appealing to tarantulas due to their soft texture and sweetness, making them excellent for enticing a reluctant eater.
• Feeder Fish: Some tarantula owners use small feeder fish like guppies or minnows for their larger species. While not a common choice, these can provide a varied diet and additional nutrients, but care must be taken to ensure they are free from disease.
• Pinkie Mice: Pinkie mice can be offered to larger tarantulas, providing a rich source of protein and essential nutrients. However, they should be introduced cautiously as they can be too large for smaller species and may not be readily accepted.

How Do Crickets Compare to Mealworms in Nutritional Content for Tarantulas?

Aspect	Crickets	Mealworms
Protein Content	Approximately 60-70% protein. Great for muscle development.	Approximately 50-60% protein. Slightly lower than crickets.
Fat Content	About 10% fat, which is beneficial for energy but should be balanced.	Higher fat content at around 30%, suitable for energy but can lead to obesity.
Calcium Content	Contains around 0.5% calcium, important for exoskeleton health.	Lower calcium content at about 0.1%, may require supplementation.
Chitin Content	Lower chitin, easier for tarantulas to digest.	Higher chitin levels, can be harder for some tarantulas to process.
Dietary Fiber Content	Approximately 5-10% fiber, aids in digestion.	Around 2-5% fiber, less beneficial for digestion.
Vitamins and Minerals	Rich in B vitamins and minerals like iron and phosphorus.	Contains vitamin E, but lower in other essential vitamins compared to crickets.
Moisture Content	About 70% moisture, helps with hydration.	Approximately 60% moisture, less hydrating than crickets.

What Other Feeder Insects Should Be Included in a Tarantula’s Diet?

The best feeders for tarantulas include a variety of insects that provide essential nutrients for their growth and health.

• Crickets: Crickets are a staple in many tarantula diets due to their high protein content and availability. They are active and enticing, encouraging tarantulas to hunt, which can stimulate natural behaviors.
• Roaches: Dubia roaches and other species are excellent feeders because they are high in protein and low in fat. They are also easier to digest compared to some other insects, making them a healthy option for tarantulas.
• Mealworms: Mealworms are a good source of fat and can be fed sparingly to provide variety in a tarantula’s diet. However, they should not be the main food source because their high fat content can lead to obesity if overfed.
• Superworms: Similar to mealworms, superworms are rich in protein and can be used as an occasional treat. Their larger size can also encourage tarantulas to engage in hunting behavior.
• Waxworms: Waxworms are very high in fat and are best used as a treat rather than a staple food. They can help entice a tarantula that is not eating well or to condition them for breeding.
• Grasshoppers: These insects are a good source of protein and can be offered occasionally. They provide a different texture and movement that can stimulate a tarantula’s hunting instincts.
• Butterworms: These larvae are packed with nutrients and can be a good occasional supplement. They are often used as a treat due to their high-fat content.
• Ants: While not commonly used, some keepers offer ants to their tarantulas, as they are high in protein. However, caution is advised, as some ants can be aggressive and may harm the tarantula.
• Fruit Flies: Ideal for smaller species or young tarantulas, fruit flies are easy to manage and provide a quick source of protein. They are often used in breeding setups for spiderlings.

What Size Feeders Are Optimal for Different Life Stages of Tarantulas?

The optimal feeder size for tarantulas varies depending on their life stages, ensuring they receive adequate nutrition without overwhelming them.

• Spiderlings: Small prey items such as pinhead crickets or fruit flies are ideal for spiderlings, as they are small enough to be easily consumed.
• Juveniles: As tarantulas grow, they can handle slightly larger feeders like small crickets or mealworms, providing more substantial nutrition without risking injury.
• Adults: Adult tarantulas can consume larger prey such as adult crickets, roaches, or even small mice, which are necessary to meet their increased dietary needs.
• Breeding Females: During breeding, females require larger and more nutrient-dense prey, such as large crickets or feeder rats, to support their reproductive health.

Spiderlings thrive on very small prey items; pinhead crickets are particularly suitable as they are manageable in size and high in protein, aiding in the rapid growth of the young tarantulas. Fruit flies can also be a good option due to their small size and ease of capture.

Juvenile tarantulas are capable of handling larger feeders, which helps them to grow and develop properly. Small crickets and mealworms provide a balanced source of protein and energy for their active growth phase, ensuring they maintain a healthy diet.

Adult tarantulas require a more substantial diet, and therefore, larger prey such as adult crickets or roaches are beneficial. These feeders not only satisfy their hunger but also provide the necessary nutrients to support their larger body size and energy needs.

Breeding females have heightened nutritional demands, especially when preparing for egg production. Offering larger and more nutrient-rich prey like large crickets or small rats is crucial, as it helps ensure they have the energy reserves needed for successful breeding and egg-laying.

How Do You Determine the Right Size Feeder for Baby Tarantulas?

When selecting the right size feeder for baby tarantulas, several factors must be considered to ensure their health and growth.

• Prey Size: The size of the feeder should be appropriate for the tarantula’s size, typically around 1/4 to 1/2 the width of the tarantula’s body.
• Feeder Type: Common feeder types include crickets, mealworms, and fruit flies, each with their own benefits and appropriateness depending on the tarantula’s age.
• Feeding Frequency: Younger tarantulas require more frequent feedings than adults, which impacts the size and quantity of feeders you should provide.
• Availability of Feeders: Factors like accessibility and availability of live feeders in your area can influence your choice; some feeders are easier to source than others.
• Nutritional Value: Ensure that the feeders provide adequate nutrition, as the health of the feeder insects will directly affect the health of the tarantula.

Prey Size: Choosing the right prey size is crucial; if the feeder is too large, it can pose a risk to the baby tarantula, while feeders that are too small may not provide sufficient nutrition. A general guideline is to select prey that is roughly 1/4 to 1/2 the size of the tarantula’s body to ensure safe consumption.

Feeder Type: Common choices for baby tarantulas include small crickets, pinhead or small mealworms, and fruit flies, which are small enough for them to handle. Each type has its own benefits; for instance, fruit flies are often used for the tiniest spiderlings, while crickets provide more protein but can be more challenging to manage.

Feeding Frequency: Younger tarantulas generally need to be fed every few days, while adults can be fed less frequently. This increased frequency means you may need to adjust the size and number of feeders to accommodate their growing appetites and ensure they are getting enough nutrients.

Availability of Feeders: The practicality of sourcing live feeders is another consideration; some types may be readily available at pet stores or online, while others may not. It’s important to find a reliable source for the feeders to ensure they are fresh and healthy for your tarantula.

Nutritional Value: The nutritional content of the feeders you choose can directly affect the health and growth of your tarantula. It’s essential to provide feeders that are well-fed themselves, as this will enhance their nutritional value when consumed by your tarantula.

What About Adult Tarantulas and Their Feeder Size Requirements?

When considering the best feeders for tarantulas, it’s important to match the size of the feeder to the size of the tarantula.

• Crickets: Crickets are one of the most popular feeder insects for tarantulas due to their availability and nutritional value. Adult tarantulas generally require crickets that are about half the size of their body length to ensure they can catch and consume them easily without risking injury.
• Mealworms: Mealworms are another excellent feeder choice, providing a good source of protein and fat. For adult tarantulas, mealworms should be appropriately sized, typically around the length of the tarantula’s front legs, to ensure they are manageable for the spider.
• Roaches: Dubia roaches are favored by many tarantula keepers as they are nutritious and easy to breed. Adult tarantulas can handle roaches that are roughly the size of their carapace, which makes them a suitable option for larger species.
• Superworms: Superworms are larger than regular mealworms and can be a suitable feeder for larger adult tarantulas. They should be offered in sizes that match the tarantula’s size, typically no more than two-thirds the length of the tarantula to avoid overwhelming them.
• Pinkie Mice: For larger tarantula species, pinkie mice can be an occasional treat that provides a high protein source. These should only be offered sparingly and in sizes that are appropriate for the tarantula, usually around the size of the spider’s body to ensure they can handle the meal.

How Often Should Tarantulas Be Fed for Optimal Health?

The feeding frequency for tarantulas can vary based on their age and species, but it typically ranges from once a week to once a month.

• Juvenile Tarantulas: Juvenile tarantulas generally require more frequent feeding, typically every 3-5 days. This is because they are in a growth phase and need more nutrients to support their development.
• Adult Tarantulas: Adult tarantulas can be fed less often, usually every 1-2 weeks. Their metabolism slows down as they mature, and they can survive on less food while still maintaining optimal health.
• Species-Specific Needs: Different tarantula species have varying dietary requirements and feeding habits. For instance, some species may thrive on a diet high in protein while others may benefit from a more varied diet that includes insects and other food sources.
• Prey Size: The size of the prey is crucial; it should ideally be about the same size as the tarantula’s abdomen. Feeding prey that is too large can cause stress or injury to the tarantula, while prey that is too small may not provide sufficient nutrition.
• Monitoring Health: It’s important to observe the tarantula’s behavior and condition to determine if the feeding schedule is appropriate. Signs of malnutrition or overfeeding, such as lethargy or an overly bloated abdomen, can indicate that adjustments are needed.

What Is the Recommended Feeding Frequency for Young Tarantulas?

Young tarantulas, also known as spiderlings, require more frequent feedings compared to adult tarantulas due to their rapid growth rate. Generally, the recommended feeding frequency for young tarantulas is every 3 to 5 days. This frequency can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients to thrive and grow.

Key considerations for feeding young tarantulas include:

• Size of Prey: Offer prey that is smaller than the tarantula’s body size, typically pinhead crickets, fruit flies, or small mealworms. This reduces the risk of injury and ensures the spiderlin can capture and consume the food easily.
• Monitor Behavior: It’s essential to observe the tarantula after feeding. If the spiderling shows consistent disinterest in food over successive feedings, it may be an indicator of stress or health issues.
• Hydration: In addition to solid food, ensure young tarantulas have access to a shallow water dish for hydration, especially in warmer environments.

Adjust feeding frequency based on your tarantula’s growth, overall health, and seasonal factors, as metabolism can vary with temperature changes.

How Often Should Adult Tarantulas Be Fed?

Adult tarantulas should be fed based on their size, species, and activity level, typically every 1 to 2 weeks.

• Crickets: Crickets are one of the most popular feeders for tarantulas due to their availability and nutritional value. They are high in protein and can be gut-loaded with nutritious foods before being offered to the spider, ensuring a healthy meal.
• Mealworms: Mealworms are another commonly used feeder that can be convenient due to their longer shelf life. They are softer than crickets, making them a suitable choice for older tarantulas or those that may have difficulty capturing harder prey.
• Superworms: Superworms are larger than mealworms and provide a good source of protein and fat. They are very active, which can stimulate hunting behavior in tarantulas, but they should be fed in moderation to avoid obesity.
• Roaches: Dubia roaches and other species of roaches are excellent feeders as they are high in protein and low in fat. They are also more nutritious than crickets and have a longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent purchases.
• Pinkie Mice: For larger species of tarantulas, pinkie mice can be an occasional treat. They provide a significant protein boost and can help stimulate breeding activity, but should not be a regular part of the diet due to high fat content.
• Commercial Feeder Insects: Specialized commercial feeders are available that provide balanced nutrition for tarantulas. These can include a mix of insects designed to meet the dietary needs of tarantulas, offering a convenient option for owners.

What Precautions Should Be Taken When Feeding Tarantulas?

When feeding tarantulas, it is essential to take certain precautions to ensure their health and safety.

• Choose Appropriate Feeders: Select prey items that are size-appropriate for the tarantula, typically no larger than the tarantula’s body size. This prevents injury during feeding and ensures that the tarantula can subdue its meal without excessive struggle.
• Live vs. Pre-killed Feeders: While live feeders can stimulate hunting behavior, they may also pose risks, such as injury to the tarantula if the prey fights back. Pre-killed feeders eliminate this risk and can be a safer option, especially for younger or more vulnerable tarantulas.
• Avoid Overfeeding: Monitor the feeding schedule and quantity, as overfeeding can lead to obesity and health issues in tarantulas. Providing food every 7-10 days is often sufficient, adjusting based on the tarantula’s age and species.
• Hygiene and Cleanliness: Always ensure that feeding areas are clean and free from leftover prey remnants to prevent mold and bacteria growth, which can harm the tarantula. Regularly clean the enclosure to maintain a healthy habitat.
• Observe Feeding Behavior: Pay attention to the tarantula’s feeding response and adjust the type or size of prey accordingly. If a tarantula refuses food, it may be due to stress, temperature issues, or pre-molt, indicating that feeding should be paused temporarily.

How Can Overfeeding Be Avoided in Tarantulas?

To avoid overfeeding tarantulas, consider the following strategies:

• Choose Appropriate Feeder Size: Selecting the right size of feeders is crucial for tarantula health. Feeders should generally be no larger than the width of the tarantula’s carapace, as larger prey can lead to stress and digestive issues.
• Establish a Feeding Schedule: Implementing a regular feeding schedule can help regulate food intake. Most tarantulas benefit from being fed every 5 to 10 days, depending on their size and species, which helps prevent overfeeding.
• Monitor Weight and Behavior: Regularly observing your tarantula’s weight and behavior can provide insights into their feeding needs. If a tarantula appears bloated or lethargic, it may be a sign of overfeeding, prompting a reassessment of feeding habits.
• Utilize Smaller Insects: Opting for smaller insects can help control the amount of food a tarantula consumes. Small crickets, mealworms, or fruit flies can provide adequate nutrition without the risk of overfeeding.
• Limit Food Variety: Keeping a consistent diet can prevent overfeeding by ensuring that the tarantula receives the right amount of nutrients. Introducing too many different types of feeders can lead to excess consumption and nutritional imbalances.

What Signs Suggest That a Tarantula Is Not Eating Properly?

Signs that indicate a tarantula is not eating properly include:

• Weight Loss: If a tarantula is not consuming food, it may begin to lose weight noticeably. This can be observed through a reduction in its body mass and a more pronounced abdomen, which should ideally remain plump and healthy.
• Refusal to Eat: A consistent refusal to eat can be a clear indicator of feeding issues. Tarantulas may refuse food for a variety of reasons, including stress, unsuitable environmental conditions, or illness, and this behavior should be monitored closely.
• Behavioral Changes: A tarantula that is not eating may exhibit changes in behavior, such as lethargy or hiding more than usual. These changes can indicate that the tarantula is not feeling well, which often correlates with feeding problems.
• Extended Molting Periods: If a tarantula is taking longer than usual to molt, it may signal that it is not eating enough to support the energy needed for this process. Proper nutrition is essential for successful molting, and delays can lead to further health complications.
• Dehydration Signs: Lack of feeding often leads to dehydration, which can manifest as a shriveled appearance or extreme lethargy. It’s crucial to ensure that your tarantula has access to fresh water, as dehydration can exacerbate feeding issues.

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