Theraphosa stirmi

Common Name: Burgundy Goliath Bird Eater
Native Locale: Guyana
Category:  Terrestrial, New World
Adult Size:  10"-12"
Lifespan: Females=15-25 years    males=3-6 years
Growth Rate: Medium Fast
Temperament:  Aggressive and will attack. Quick and nervous
Difficulty: Not a good species for beginning collectors.

This T is one of the largest spiders worldwide.

Identifiable by varying coloration; from rusty brown or rich burgundy-brown to dark brown, with reddish setae on the legs and abdomen and white lines on the legs. 

An obligate burrower, it spends much of its time hidden in its burrow. Be sure to provide a sufficient amount of substrate and hides. Requires high humidity (75-80%) and warmth (70°-80° F). Periodic misting is important.

Has an insatiable appetite.

Should never be handled. 

In defense, it rubs its first and second pairs of legs together to create a hissing sound that can be heard up to 15 feet away. This is called stridulation and is the same behavior that crickets and grasshoppers use to make their chirping sounds. They will also rear up to fling their abdominal hairs and try to bite when stressed. Their sizeable fangs (up to 1 inch)  mean its bite can cause damage but the venom is not considered medically significant.

The pictures are for reference only and may not reflect the actual specimen you'll receive.