Defense
Because tarantulas like the Mexican Red Knee have been
featured in so many movies, you might think they are
very dangerous. However, the Mexican Red Knee is normally
a peaceful creature.
If it is threatened, the spider may rear up on its
hind legs and may flick hairs to protect itself. Notice
how much hair is missing from the abdomen of the tarantula
in the picture. These hairs can irritate the skin and
eyes.
Susie, a Red Knee Tarantula in the Spider Room, was
threatened. Watch Susie's response.
Although the Mexican Red Knee Tarantula rarely bites
people, the spider may bite to defend itself. Like most
tarantulas, its venom is not deadly, unless you are
allergic. Getting bit by one would be similar to getting
stung by a bee.
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