What Are Tarantulas in Animal Crossing Wild World (ACWW)
Tarantulas are a rare and valuable insect that can be found in Animal Crossing Wild World (ACWW). Catching them is a rewarding experience, both for the Bells you can earn and for the sense of accomplishment. These eight-legged creatures are a thrilling addition to the game, especially for those looking to complete their insect collection or make some quick money. However, tarantulas are also notoriously dangerous. They can and will bite you if you approach them carelessly, leading to fainting. Understanding how to identify them and where they appear is the first step toward successful tarantula hunting. Their elusiveness makes catching them all the more satisfying when you finally master the techniques needed.
Identifying Tarantulas in ACWW
Tarantulas in ACWW are easily recognizable due to their large size and distinctive appearance. They are dark in color, with a large, bulbous body and eight long legs. They move slowly, but can quickly change direction, making them a tricky insect to catch. When threatened, they will rear up on their hind legs and adopt an aggressive stance, ready to strike. It’s crucial to recognize this behavior and adjust your approach accordingly. Keep in mind that tarantulas only appear during specific times and under specific conditions, so understanding these factors will drastically increase your chances of finding them. Identifying them quickly is key to avoid being bitten and to catch the tarantula.
Where to Find Tarantulas

Tarantulas appear on your island in ACWW, typically from 7 PM to 4 AM. They are most commonly found on the ground, but can also be found near trees and flowers. To maximize your chances of finding a tarantula, it’s important to clear the area of any obstacles, such as weeds, flowers, and items. This will give the tarantulas more space to spawn and make it easier to spot them. Visiting a friend’s island or a Mystery Island can also increase your chances, as these locations often have more favorable conditions for tarantula spawning. Remember to be patient and persistent, as tarantulas don’t appear every night.
Essential Tools and Preparation
Before you embark on your tarantula-catching adventure, you’ll need the right tools and a bit of preparation. This ensures you have the best chance of success and minimizes the risk of getting bitten. Having the right tools and understanding the environment you’re working in is half the battle. A well-prepared player is a successful player, especially when it comes to a challenging task like catching tarantulas.
The Net Your Primary Tool
The most important tool you’ll need is a net. Make sure you have a durable net as you’ll be using it frequently. The net is your only way to catch a tarantula. You will need to swing it at the tarantula to catch it. Also, carry a spare net or two in case your current one breaks. Also, you can craft or buy nets at Nook’s Cranny. A flimsy net may break after a single swing, and a more durable net will allow you to catch multiple tarantulas before needing to replace it. Having the right net can be a game-changer.
Clearing the Area Creating Space

Tarantulas need space to spawn and move around. Before you start your hunt, clear any unnecessary items, such as flowers, trees, rocks, and weeds, to give the tarantulas more room to appear. Weeds and flowers, in particular, can easily obscure your view of the tarantulas, making them harder to spot and catch. Less obstacles mean more space, and more space means an easier hunt. Clearing your island or a particular area makes your movements easier and increases the chances of finding tarantulas. The more space available, the better your chances of success. Taking this step is often overlooked, but it is extremely important.
Understanding Tarantula Behavior
Understanding tarantula behavior is key to safely and successfully catching them. These insects have a distinct set of behaviors that you need to be aware of. They are not simply wandering around; they react to your presence and approach. Knowing how they react will prevent you from getting bitten and will lead to a higher chance of catching them. Pay close attention to their movements and body language so you can predict their next move and react accordingly. Understanding their behavior is crucial for any aspiring tarantula catcher. This is especially important if you want to avoid the inevitable sting.
Approaching Tarantulas Safely
Approaching tarantulas requires a slow and deliberate approach. Avoid running or moving too quickly, as this will startle them. When you see a tarantula, stop moving and slowly approach it with your net. Keep your net held out, and watch the tarantula’s movements. If it raises its front legs, it’s a sign that it’s about to attack. Stop moving immediately until it calms down. Your patience will be rewarded with a successful catch. A cautious approach is the best approach, and it’s what will keep you safe. It’s a game of patience and strategy.
The Stalking and Swinging Technique

The stalking and swinging technique is your primary method for catching tarantulas. Hold down the A button to ready your net. Slowly approach the tarantula until you are within range. If the tarantula raises its front legs, stop moving immediately. Wait for it to lower its legs before continuing to approach. Once you’re close enough, swing your net by pressing the A button again. Timing is everything, so don’t rush. If you swing too early, you’ll miss, and if you swing too late, you’ll get bitten. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t catch a tarantula on your first try.
Dealing With Mistakes Getting Bitten
Even with the best techniques, getting bitten by a tarantula is inevitable. If you get bitten, your character will faint, and you’ll wake up back at your house. You’ll also lose all the items in your inventory. Don’t let a bite discourage you; it’s part of the learning process. Learn from your mistakes and adjust your approach. Keep trying, and you’ll eventually master the art of catching tarantulas. If you make a mistake, you’ll be back at your house. You also will be given the option to continue your hunt. You’ll learn as you go. Getting bitten is never fun, but it will happen.
Catching Tarantulas Step by Step
Following these steps will help you to successfully catch a tarantula in Animal Crossing Wild World. Remember to be patient, observant, and always ready to adapt to the tarantula’s behavior. With practice and persistence, you’ll become a tarantula-catching expert in no time.
Step 1 The Approach

Locate a tarantula. Slowly approach it by holding down the A button to ready your net. Watch the tarantula’s behavior closely. If it raises its legs, stop moving immediately. Wait for it to lower its legs before proceeding. This initial approach sets the stage for a successful catch and requires patience and a keen eye.
Step 2 The Stalk
Continue your slow approach. Take small steps, and don’t rush. Observe the tarantula’s movements. If it starts to raise its legs again, stop immediately. This methodical stalking allows you to gradually close the distance without startling the tarantula. Patience is key during this phase.
Step 3 The Swing
When you’re within range, quickly swing your net by pressing the A button. Aim carefully to ensure you catch the tarantula. Timing is crucial, so try to anticipate the tarantula’s movements. A well-timed swing is the culmination of your approach and stalking efforts. Do it right and you’ve got your prize!
Step 4 Collecting Your Prize

If your swing is successful, you will catch the tarantula in your net. The tarantula will now be in your inventory. If you miss, the tarantula will likely bite you. You can now choose what to do with your prize. This is the final reward for your patience and skill. It is a satisfying moment for any ACWW player.
What To Do With Your Tarantulas
Once you’ve successfully caught a tarantula, you have several options for what to do with it. The choice depends on your goals, whether it’s making money, completing your museum, or simply displaying it in your home. Your decision will influence how you approach tarantula hunting and your overall Animal Crossing experience. Having choices is one of the great things about Animal Crossing.
Selling Tarantulas Making Bells
Tarantulas are valuable creatures, and selling them can earn you a significant amount of Bells. You can sell tarantulas at Nook’s Cranny. They fetch a high price. Selling tarantulas is a great way to make quick money. This is a good way to earn Bells quickly, especially early in the game. It will make your island life more enjoyable as you can make purchases with ease. This is a great option for players who need to earn money quickly.
Donating Tarantulas to the Museum

If you’re aiming to complete your insect collection, you can donate tarantulas to the museum. Blathers, the museum curator, will gladly accept your donation. Donating tarantulas will allow you to expand the museum and fill it with a diverse collection of insects. This is a great goal if you are a completionist. Donating adds to the game’s collection and helps you feel like you are contributing to the community.
Displaying Tarantulas in Your Home
For those who like to decorate, you can display tarantulas in your home. Place them in a terrarium, and they will add a unique touch to your interior design. Displaying a tarantula in your home is an excellent way to show off your accomplishments and add a touch of exotic flair to your living space. It’s a great way to personalize your home.
