Mastering the Care of the Avicularia avicularia (Pinktoe)
Introduction
If there is one spider that acts as the "gateway" to the arboreal world, it is the Avicularia avicularia, or the Common Pink Toe/Guyana Pink Toe. Famous for its velvety black-to-grey body and those iconic, bright peach-pink "boots" at the end of its legs, this species has been a hobby staple for decades. Native to the tropical canopy of South America—from Guyana to Brazil—these spiders are the architects of the treetops. They are known for building elaborate, thick silken "hammocks" and tube webs high up in the foliage. For the tarantula keeper, the Pink Toe offers a perfect blend of fuzzy, approachable charm and fascinating natural behavior that never gets old.
Size, Growth, and Longevity
The Avicularia avicularia is a medium-sized tarantula, typically reaching a diagonal leg span of 12cm to 15cm (about 5 to 6 inches). They are characterized by a fast growth rate, often reaching their adult size within 18 to 24 months if kept well-fed and warm. Like most arboreal species, they don't live quite as long as the terrestrial giants; females generally live for 8-10 years, while males typically mature and complete their life cycle in 3 years. Interestingly, spiderlings start life as "color negatives" of the adults, featuring pink bodies and dark feet, which slowly reverses as they moult.
Temperament and Suitability
The Pink Toe is widely celebrated as one of the most docile spiders in the hobby. They are a new-world species that would almost always rather flee or jump than bite. While they possess urticating hairs, they rarely flick them in the way a terrestrial spider might; instead, they have a unique "poop-cannon" defense, where they launch excrement with surprising accuracy if they feel cornered!
Because of their calm demeanor, they are an excellent choice for beginners. However, a keeper must be prepared for their agility. They are capable of jumping small distances and can be quite fast when startled. Their gentle nature makes them a joy to observe, but they are still fragile animals that require a soft touch and a secure environment.
Care
The secret to keeping an Avicularia avicularia healthy is a mantra every keeper should learn: Cross-ventilation is king. Many beginners make the mistake of keeping them in "swampy" conditions with high humidity and no airflow, which can lead to health issues. An ideal setup uses a vertical enclosure with plenty of holes on the sides to ensure a constant breeze.
While they appreciate a humidity level of 70% to 80%, this should be achieved through a large water dish and light misting of their webbing rather than soaking the substrate. In fact, keeping the substrate mostly dry helps prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. Provide plenty of vertical cork bark and silk plants near the top of the enclosure, as this is where they will spend 99% of their time building their silken retreats. A temperature range of 24°C to 27°C is perfect for keeping them active and healthy.
Conclusion
The Avicularia avicularia (Common Pink Toe or Guyana Pink Toe) remains a must-have for any collection. Its striking "pink boots," fuzzy appearance, and fascinating web-building make it a standout display animal. While it requires a specific focus on airflow and vertical space, its docile temperament makes it the perfect introduction to the world of tree-dwelling tarantulas. Whether you are starting your first collection or are a veteran keeper, there is always room for a classic Pink Toe.
