California Ebony Tarantula

California ebony tarantula (Aphonepelma eutylenum)

If you see a big black hairy spider trudging down a trail in the Punta Banda hills, it very well could be California ebony tarantula,  This species has body color from ebony and dark brown to light beige. Females are typically lighter in color than males and have large abdomens. They generally have a body size of around 2 inches and can grow up to 5 inches, including their leg span.

While they may look intimidating, particularly to those with arachnophobia, California ebony tarantulas aren’t dangerous to humans. These tarantulas are known for their docile nature and rarely bite unless seriously provoked. If a bite does occur, it can be painful due to their large fangs, but while they do have venom, it is mild and primarily used to subdue their typical insect prey. The species has declined due to habitat loss, so please be kind to these gentle giants if you encounter them