Animal Crossing Tarantulas Top 5 Facts
Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a vast world filled with various creatures to catch, and among the most lucrative, and potentially terrifying, are the tarantulas. These elusive spiders can fetch a high price, making them a favorite among players looking to make a quick fortune. This guide will delve into the top five facts about Animal Crossing tarantulas, helping you understand their behavior, location, and how to maximize your earnings. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, these facts will prove essential in your quest to catch these valuable critters. Get ready to learn the ins and outs of tarantula hunting and transform your island into a bell-making paradise.
Fact 1 Where to Find Tarantulas
The primary location to find tarantulas in Animal Crossing is on your own island and more commonly, on mystery islands. However, finding them on your own island is a rare occurrence. The best way to find them is by using Nook Miles Tickets. When you use a Nook Miles Ticket, you’ll travel to a random mystery island, and some of these islands are specifically designed to spawn tarantulas. These islands are typically characterized by their flat layout, which makes it easy for tarantulas to spawn and roam freely. The time of day is also a significant factor; tarantulas typically appear between 7 PM and 4 AM, so be sure to set your alarms for the optimal catching hours. Keep an eye out for these islands, and be prepared to clear away any obstacles to maximize the tarantula spawn rate.
How to Identify Tarantula Islands

Identifying a tarantula island is crucial to a successful hunting session. Look for islands with a simple layout, as previously mentioned. The more open space, the better. Other clues include a lack of rivers or ponds, as tarantulas prefer dry land. Some players even alter the islands they visit by removing flowers, trees, and any other items that may interfere with tarantula spawning. If you find yourself on an island that meets these criteria, you’re in for a profitable night. Another key is the time of year. In the Northern Hemisphere, tarantulas are most active from November to April, whereas, in the Southern Hemisphere, they can be found from May to October. Understanding these seasonal patterns will help you plan your hunting trips.
Fact 2 Tarantula Behavior
Understanding the behavior of tarantulas is key to successfully catching them. Tarantulas are skittish creatures and will attack if they sense danger. They will chase after you. When you approach a tarantula, they will raise their front legs in a threatening pose. If you move too quickly or get too close, they will strike, and you’ll faint, waking up back at your house. Therefore, patience and a strategic approach are essential. Observing their movement patterns allows you to predict their actions and catch them with minimal risk. Be prepared to stop and start your approach.
Understanding Tarantula Movement Patterns
Tarantulas move in a very specific way, which can be used to your advantage. They will move slowly and cautiously when they haven’t detected you. When they detect you, they will stop and stare. If you stop moving when they are looking at you, they will stop as well. Once they turn their backs, you can move forward again, but slowly. If you stop moving when they are looking at you, they will stop as well. This is the key to catching them. Repeating this slow, calculated approach will help you eventually reach the tarantula without being attacked. Mastering these patterns will significantly increase your catching success rate.
Fact 3 Tarantula Catching Techniques

The most effective method for catching tarantulas is using the net. However, the key is not just swinging the net but the timing. Approaching them slowly is crucial. Hold down the A button to ready your net, and then move slowly toward the tarantula. When you get close, they will raise their legs and stare at you. Stop moving at this point. Once the tarantula lowers its legs, take one step forward. The moment it raises its legs again, stop immediately. Repeat this process, and eventually, you will be close enough to swing your net. Aim to swing the net when you are one space away from the tarantula. This technique, combined with the knowledge of their movement patterns, will minimize your chances of being bitten.
The Importance of Slow and Steady
Patience is a virtue when it comes to catching tarantulas. The slow and steady approach is the most reliable method, as mentioned above. Trying to rush the process will almost always result in a bite. Instead, move slowly and deliberately, observing the tarantula’s reactions. Pay attention to its legs; when they raise, stop. When they lower, you can cautiously advance. This rhythmic approach will allow you to get within range to swing your net. The goal is to create a predictable environment that will allow you to catch tarantulas with ease. Always be aware of your surroundings, and prepare for multiple attempts, as it will take practice.
Fact 4 Tarantula Selling Price
The selling price of tarantulas is a significant factor in their appeal. Each tarantula can be sold for 8,000 bells at Nook’s Cranny, which makes them one of the most valuable insects in the game. This high price makes tarantula hunting a very profitable endeavor, especially when you consider the number of tarantulas you can catch in a single night. One evening of dedicated hunting can earn you hundreds of thousands of bells, which can be used to upgrade your home, buy furniture, and expand your island. It is crucial to factor in the price and time spent when you consider your earnings from the insects. If Flick is on your island, you can sell them for 12,000 bells.
Maximizing Your Earnings from Tarantulas

To maximize your earnings, it’s important to optimize your hunting strategy. This includes clearing the island of anything that could prevent the tarantulas from spawning, such as flowers and trees. Carrying a good net is also important, you don’t want to be caught without a way to catch the tarantula. The most obvious choice for this purpose would be the Golden Net. Another tip is to wait for Flick. Flick is a special visitor who buys bugs for 150% of their usual value. This means you can sell tarantulas to him for 12,000 bells each, significantly increasing your profit. Keep an eye out for his visits; they will make your profits even greater.
Fact 5 Tarantula Spawn Mechanics
Understanding tarantula spawn mechanics can greatly enhance your hunting efficiency. Tarantulas, like other insects, require specific environmental conditions to spawn. They typically appear during the night, in the hours between 7 PM and 4 AM. Clearing an island of other creatures, such as water bugs, tiger beetles, and wharf roaches, can increase the spawn rate of tarantulas. This is because these other bugs will take up the spawn locations, which means the more open space you have, the more likely a tarantula is to appear. This is why many players clear out their islands to maximize the potential for tarantula spawns.
Understanding Tarantula Spawn Conditions
Certain conditions affect the tarantula spawn rate. Weather is a crucial factor. Rain will prevent tarantulas from spawning altogether, so a clear night is essential. Also, you need a large, open space without too many obstacles. Some players find it beneficial to chop down trees, remove flowers, and get rid of any other obstacles that might impede the spawning of tarantulas. This creates the most optimal environment for these spiders. Moreover, the time of year affects the spawn; therefore, make sure to adjust your hunting times accordingly. By understanding these conditions and taking steps to manipulate them, you can significantly increase your chances of encountering and capturing these valuable creatures.
Tarantula hunting is one of the most exciting, and rewarding activities in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Armed with these top five facts, you’re well-equipped to navigate the world of these eight-legged creatures. Remember to be patient, move slowly, and always be aware of your surroundings. With practice, you’ll master the art of tarantula catching. Whether you’re looking to make bells, expand your bug collection, or simply experience the thrill of the hunt, Animal Crossing tarantulas offer a unique and engaging aspect of the game. Happy hunting!
