Interested in a TrapDoor Spider

[_simon_]

I'm thinking about getting either a Cyphonisia sp. Silver or a Gordyrella sp. Orange.

I just have a few queries for anyone who keeps either of those or trapdoors in general.

1) What kind of lifespan do they have?
2) I know they need depth for deep substrate but what kind of tank size are we talking about?
3) What temperature & humidity is required?
4) What's a good substrate mix? Could I use coco fibre and sand and if so what percentages? I assume the sub needs to be kept moist?
5) Is there anything that makes a particular species stand out from the rest?

I know I wouldn't see it very often but I looked at some past threads and the idea of forcing the spider to construct its burrow against the glass is one I would consider. I also know that I wouldn't want to be bitten.

Please don't reply telling me to google this stuff, I'd just like clear answers from people who have experience.

[amphib-fan1990]

im pretty sure its actually illegal to keep these guys but dont quote me on it as i dont know a whole load about sdipers and inverts all i know is screw that for a barrel of monkeys!!!

[_simon_]

It's not illegal or at least not in the UK anyway. You can buy them quite freely!

[spider_mad]

Originally Posted by amphib-fan1990

im pretty sure its actually illegal to keep these guys but dont quote me on it as i dont know a whole load about sdipers and inverts all i know is screw that for a barrel of monkeys!!!

No they are not illegal, can buy them from spidershop at the moment.
You can even get the spanish funnel web and don't need a DWA.
The Australian funnel web is one of the only one's you can't own without DWA as far as spiders go

[_simon_]

ok have done a lot of reading elsewhere since the forum is slow today and checked with the Mrs as to whether it was ok with her and have gone ahead and ordered one from thespidershop. It's listed as a Gordyrella sp. Orange Trapdoor Spider but from reading around it may actually be a Ctenolophus sp. African Red Trapdoor spider. I guess I'll have a better idea when I see it.

If you still want to reply that's fine as it will either confirm what I've read or give me more info etc.

[Lucifus]

One of the most boring spiders ever. You will be extremely lucky to see it feeding once in your life time. And the only times you will see it is when you first put it into the tub. Oh and don't get bitten.

[Incubuss]

I have kept dozens of these over the years, and I can truely say that I have only ever seen 3 of them once they burrow. You will be VERY lucky to even see them feed. they are VERY secretive and very patient, they will wait for hours after you leave the room to feed.

Personally, I wouldn't waste your money.

[PeterUK]

Enjoy your pet bowl of substrate

[_simon_]

I've got 5 emps that I can't remember the last time I saw, 3 of my T's that I haven't seen for weeks and some millipedes that only come out in the dead of night, on a full moon, on thursdays. Not seeing much of the trapdoor spider doesn't bother me, I was aware of this before I decided I'd like one.

I have to say, no offence intended that I haven't had any useful replies yet which I find surprising for this forum! Everyone having a bad day? Incubuss if you've kept so many is there anything (else) you think I should know?

Something I can't seem find info on is drinking. Am I right in thinking that misting the enclosure early morning would be enough? What's a bite from a trapdoor like, I've read everything from "mild" to limb loss.

[joeyboy]

obviously it differs from spider to spider but i've heard in general trapdoor spider bites hurt a lot more then your average bite from a T.

I doubt they even drink much since they never leave their burrows so a water bowl would probably be useless apart from maybe just to help raise humidity. I suppose giving the substrate a good misting would be sufficient and hopefully the water would drain down to were the spider is but it probably just gets it water from it's food and doesn't bother with a drink.