Grammostola rosea

"Chilean rose"

G. rosea is one of, if not the, most popular beginner's species.  It can be found in just about any pet store that carries exotics and is typically very hardy.  Unfortunately, many of the specimens found in pet stores are wild-caught and aren't always in the best of health.  Captive-bred spiders are a bit more expensive, but the peace of mind is typically well worth the cost.

Being a terrestrial (ground-dwelling) species, the setup for G. rosea typically includes some type of enclosure, substrate, a water dish, and a hide.  Decorations may be used, but it important that they aren't dangerous to the spider if it should happen to climb and fall on them.

This species comes from an arid climate and does well in captivity when kept at room temperature (approx. 72 F) and an open water dish (no extra misting or attempts to increase humidity).

This species is known to go weeks, months, or even years without eating.  The first tarantula I ever owned, a female G. rosea named "Archimedes," went 7 months without eating before a molt.  Don't worry too much if yours doesn't eat right away - take the food away and try again several days later.  As long as fresh water is available and the abdomen stays full, there is nothing to worry about.