Two Days Late… But I Got a Dream Tarantula

 

On Wednesdays We Wear Scales  A midweek check-in from your favorite pink-haired reptile nurse. Hey! Is it still Wednesday if I say it confidently enough? This issue is arriving approximately two days late, which feels on brand for someone who just acquired a dream tarantula and then immediately spent all available brain power staring at it. Worth it. Feature: Platyomma — A Dream Tarantula I officially welcomed one of my dream species into Sweet Ave Zoo: a Platyomma. And yes, I am obsessed. What draws me to Platyomma isn’t just the coloration, though let’s be honest, that starburst pattern and rich purples are unreal, it’s their presence. They have that bold, grounded, terrestrial energy that makes you want to redesign an entire enclosure just to do them justice. Natural History & Husbandry Platyomma are terrestrial New World tarantulas native to South America. They prefer: • Deep, compact substrate for burrowing • Stable, moderate humidity (not swampy, not bone dry) • Good cross ventilation • Low to moderate disturbance • A secure hide, even if they decide to redecorate anyway They are generally considered display-oriented but can be defensive if overly disturbed. Like most terrestrial species, fall risk matters, so low enclosure height relative to leg span is important. Keeper Note: Dream species deserve slow setup. Let the enclosure stabilize before stressing the animal with constant rearranging or handling attempts (not that I would with this species!). ************************************************* Photo shown is a representative stock image of the species. Shipping Arachnids - How It’s Done & How It Should Be Done Since this beauty arrived safely, it feels like the right time to talk about arachnid shipping, because it’s a common practice in the hobby, and it should always be done responsibly. Safe arachnid shipping typically includes: • Secure deli cup containment with appropriate padding • Breathable but escape-proof packaging • Insulation appropriate to the season • Heat or cold packs when necessary (never direct contact) • Minimal transit time (overnight when possible) • Clear labeling & responsible carrier choice Timing matters. Temperature awareness matters. The animal’s size and species matter. Shipping Reminder: Ethical shipping prioritizes stability, temperature control, and minimizing stress. It should never be rushed, careless, or seasonal-blind. MY WEBSITE Visit Our Socials

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