Tens of thousands of tarantulas are emerging from their underground burrows across the southwestern United States as the annual mating season begins. The phenomenon, driven by warm spring temperatures and moisture, has already started in Texas, with sightings reported in grasslands and deserts.
From October through November, states including California, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arizona, and New Mexico can expect increased tarantula activity. In Colorado, the town of La Junta encourages people to observe them an hour before dusk from mid-September to October near the Comanche National Grassland.
While the sight of many tarantulas may alarm some, experts note that most species are relatively small, reaching only about 4.5 inches in diameter. The spiders seen above ground are typically males, as females remain in their burrows. Males travel up to a mile to find a mate, but many fall prey to snakes, owls, foxes, or cars.
Tarantulas are not aggressive and rarely bite humans. Their venom is comparable to a bee sting, though allergic reactions are possible. Wildlife officials advise against handling them in the wild.
