want a spider neighbor for my Emp... but what kind?

Hi all,

I'm getting a neighbor setup for my Emp. Like the Emp, I have always wanted a tarantula as well, so I am getting the pieces together for a habitat. So, there are some Chilean rose ones at pretty much any pet store I go into, but I would rather have something a little more uncommon and not so 'standard issue' looking. Right now I'm looking through kenthebuggyguy.com, he's got an impressive inventory of spiders. Anyone have suggestions for a low-maintenance beginner spider that is a little more unique than the rose? I don't want to spend a ton here either, but I see some very reasonable prices also on ken's site. Docile and beginner caliber is what I'm looking for. I fell in love with the cobalt blue tarantula, but the care sheets I've read say that species needs someone a little more advanced. Thanks for any species tips, and/or other possible sources anyone can provide.

I've been looking at tarantulas too. I want the singapore blue...eventually. But like you I want a beginner species but something more unique than the chilean rose. Swiftsinverts.com has a huge selection and prices are good with decent descriptions.

Why don't you guys look at getting a Goliath Birdeater, there is someone else on this forum with one i think he feeds it 7-8 locusts or crickets a week,

LOL I think I like where this is going! That spider has to be huge, right? I think I've seen a few pics. I love when locusts are getting eaten, that loud high pitch sound they make, it just gives the watching experience more of a disturbing twist. Anyway, I think the price tag on these guys wasn't cheap either, but I'll look into it, could be some good times with a beast like that. Thanks again! I'll keep ya posted.

T. blondi are a bit of a handful regarding care. If you want something easy and cool-looking, go for a Brachypelma smithi.