This tarantula is native to northeastern Brazil, in the Paraíba region. They are the fourth largest species of tarantula with some individuals reaching a leg span of up to 25cm. They dig burrows to hide in on the forest floor. They are nocturnal and prefer to ambush prey at night, such as insects, other invertebrates and sometimes even small mammals or reptiles. Females typically live for about 15 years. Males will usually live for about 5 years but die shortly after mating.
A female can lay up to 2000 eggs which they protect in a silk sac for 8 weeks before hatching. These tarantulas can be quite aggressive if provoked and are known for defensive behaviours such as rearing up on their hind legs and flicking urticating hairs which cause irritation and pain.
