The Northern Gold: A Guide to the Rare Grammostola sp. North
Introduction
While many are familiar with the classic Chilean Rose Hair, only a few have encountered its more glamorous northern cousin: the Grammostola sp. North, often called the Northern Gold or Chilean Gold. Hailing from the arid, high-altitude regions of Northern Chile, this species is a visual treat. It boasts a radiant, metallic golden carapace and long, blonde-to-amber setae (hairs) that give it a "fluffy" and luminous appearance. For the UK keeper, the Grammostola sp. North is a prestigious rarity—a calm, glittering ambassador of the desert that combines legendary hardiness with a unique, sun-drenched aesthetic.
Grammostola sp. North adult female
Size, Growth, and Longevity
The Northern Gold is a medium-sized terrestrial tarantula, typically reaching an adult diagonal leg span of 12cm to 13cm (about 5 inches). Like most Grammostola species from high-altitude or arid regions, it has a notoriously slow growth rate. It takes its time to mature, often spending years in its brownish juvenile phase before the golden adult coloration truly "pops." However, this slow pace is rewarded with incredible longevity; females are exceptionally long-lived, often reaching 20 to 25 years, while males mature and finish their cycle within 5 to 7 years.
Temperament and Suitability
The temperament of the Grammostola sp. North is one of its greatest selling points: it is famously docile and calm. While its cousin, the G. rosea, can sometimes be "moody," the Northern Gold is widely reported to be one of the most gentle and inquisitive species in the hobby. As a new-world spider, it possesses urticating hairs, but it is extremely reluctant to flick them and almost never shows defensive behavior.
Because of its rock-solid stability and ease of handling, it is an ideal choice for beginners. It is a "low-stress" animal that is perfect for those who want a calm, predictable spider that stays out in the open. Due to its rarity in the trade, it is also a highly prized addition for advanced collectors who appreciate the subtle beauty of Chilean medium-sized terrestrials.
Simplified Care
Replicating the arid, scrubland environment of Northern Chile is straightforward. This species requires a terrestrial setup with 10cm to 15cm of dry substrate. They are opportunistic burrowers as spiderlings but tend to spend most of their time on the surface as adults.
To thrive in the UK, they prefer a very dry environment. Aim for a humidity level of 40% to 50%. You can achieve this by keeping the substrate dry and providing a shallow water dish; occasionally overflowing the dish to create a small damp patch is more than enough. They do well at standard room temperatures between 20°C and 24°C, making them one of the few species that is perfectly comfortable in the average UK home without extra heating. They are steady eaters but, like all Grammostola, they are prone to long "hunger strikes," especially during the winter months—don't panic, it's just their way of dealing with the seasons!
Conclusion
The Grammostola sp. North (Northern Gold) is a rare, shimmering gem from the Atacama frontier. Its radiant golden hues, combined with a "puppy-dog" temperament and extreme hardiness, make it one of the best—if most elusive—new-world species available. For the UK keeper looking for a long-lived, beautiful, and exceptionally calm companion, the Northern Gold is a golden opportunity that truly shines in any collection.
