Swarming tarantulas invade southwestern states during mating season
- Male tarantulas leave their burrows during mating season to find females.
- They are commonly found across the Southern and Southwestern U.S. during this period.
- Encounters with tarantulas can often be managed safely, and they do not pose a threat to humans.
In the Southwestern United States, including Texas, Arizona, California, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, and southeastern Colorado, the mating season for tarantulas has been occurring from late summer through autumn. During this time, male tarantulas abandon their burrows in search of female mates. Experts note that this behavior is driven by their need to reproduce before they die, as they have a limited lifespan after mating. In Colorado, the phenomenon is so pronounced that it is referred to as a migration, with males traveling significant distances across the landscape. As the mating season continues, male tarantulas can be seen marching in large groups, indicating a highly active period for these normally reclusive spiders. It's important to understand that while these spiders may appear intimidating, they are not aggressive and typically prefer to avoid encounters with humans. Paul Biggs, a board-certified entomologist, points out that they are relatively inactive during the cooler months, residing dormant in their burrows until the next mating season. Safety measures are advised for those who encounter tarantulas, as they do not pose a threat to humans. The advice is to avoid panic and refrain from attempting to handle them. Instead, it's suggested to trap them in a container and relocate them outside if found indoors. Using pest control products is discouraged, as they may exacerbate the situation. Tarantula enthusiasts have even established events like the annual Tarantula Festival in La Junta, Colorado, to celebrate the spiders and educate the public. In summary, male tarantulas emerge from their underground lairs during this specific period to locate mates. They can be sighted traversing various regions known for their populations of these spiders, highlighting a unique natural occurrence that draws attention from locals and tourists alike. Understanding their behavioral patterns helps mitigate fears and promotes coexistence with these fascinating arachnids.