What is a Tarantula in Animal Crossing
In the charming world of Animal Crossing, the tarantula is a rare and valuable creature. These eight-legged critters are a source of both excitement and potential danger for players. Appearing seasonally, tarantulas can be caught with a net and sold for a handsome profit. They also contribute to the completion of the museum’s insect exhibit. The tarantula’s presence is a signal for players to sharpen their catching skills and prepare for a thrilling hunting experience. Unlike many other insects, tarantulas can be aggressive. Their quick movements and potential to bite add an element of challenge and strategy to the game.
Where to Find Tarantulas
Tarantulas have specific habitats. They are usually found roaming on the ground. They appear more frequently in specific seasons and times of day. During their peak season, players can often spot them in grassy areas, near flowers, and along the beaches. Some players find tarantulas more commonly on mystery islands, accessed via Nook Miles Tickets. The environment plays a crucial role in tarantula spawn rates. Players often clear their islands of trees, flowers, and other items to increase the likelihood of tarantulas appearing. The time of day also matters, with tarantulas being most active during the nighttime hours.
Tarantula Island Explained

Tarantula Island is a special island that spawns a high volume of tarantulas. It’s a dream location for players looking to catch multiple tarantulas quickly. These islands offer a prime environment for catching them, as they often feature open spaces with minimal obstructions. If you are lucky enough to land on a Tarantula Island, you can quickly fill your pockets with these valuable creatures. The island’s layout is often a key factor in success. Its usually a flat, open space that allows for easy maneuvering and catching.
How to Create a Tarantula Island
Although the natural spawn of Tarantula Island is random, dedicated players have devised a strategy to transform other islands into a tarantula-rich environment. This process involves removing all possible spawn points for other bugs. By clearing trees, flowers, and any other items that bugs can spawn on, players can increase the chances of tarantulas spawning. You can also remove the existing tarantulas to allow for more spawning. This technique maximizes the number of tarantulas that can appear, resulting in a very lucrative hunting experience. Remember this process may take some time and dedication.
Best Times to Catch Tarantulas
The best time to catch tarantulas is during the night. Tarantulas are most active during the evening hours, generally from 7 PM to 4 AM. The time of year also plays a significant role. Tarantulas have specific seasonal appearances depending on your hemisphere. During the appropriate months, these creatures become much more common, increasing your chances of encountering them. Keep a close eye on the time and date in your game, as this knowledge is essential for successful tarantula hunting. Weather conditions also play a part. Clear nights usually have the highest spawn rates, so plan your hunts accordingly.
The Value of Tarantulas

Tarantulas are one of the most valuable insects in Animal Crossing. They are prized not only for their rarity, but also for their selling price. Catching and selling tarantulas is a great way to earn Bells, the in-game currency. This makes them a highly sought-after commodity for players looking to upgrade their homes, buy items, or simply save up for future purchases. The value of a tarantula extends beyond its monetary worth. They are also essential for completing the museum’s insect collection, which adds to the overall gaming experience. Collecting them is a rewarding goal for many players.
Selling Price of Tarantulas
The selling price of a tarantula is 8,000 Bells at Nook’s Cranny. This price makes them one of the most valuable insects in the game, and catching several of them can quickly increase your Bells. If you sell them to Flick, the special visitor who buys insects, you can receive an even higher price. Flick will pay 12,000 Bells for each tarantula. This difference in price makes it beneficial to wait for Flick’s visit. The high selling price of tarantulas motivates players to actively hunt them, making it a popular activity.
Where to Sell Tarantulas
You can sell tarantulas at Nook’s Cranny, the shop run by Timmy and Tommy. You can also sell them to Flick, the special visitor who specializes in buying insects. Flick appears randomly on your island. Selling to Flick offers a higher profit margin. This strategy maximizes your profits and makes tarantula hunting even more rewarding. Remember to keep a few tarantulas for your museum. This way, you can complete your collection and still earn some Bells.
Animal Crossing Tarantula Behavior

Tarantulas exhibit specific behaviors. They are known for their quick movements and aggressive tendencies. If a tarantula spots the player, it will raise its front legs and start to chase. They will then attack, resulting in the player fainting and waking up in their house. Understanding their behavior is key to successfully catching them. They often move erratically, making it difficult to predict their path. Observing their movements and being prepared for their aggression is critical to avoiding a bite.
How to Avoid Tarantula Bites
To avoid getting bitten by a tarantula, it’s important to approach them carefully. The key strategy is to move slowly and steadily. When you spot a tarantula, hold down the A button to equip your net. As you approach, stop whenever the tarantula raises its front legs. Wait for it to lower its legs before taking another step. Repeat this process, slowly closing the distance until you are close enough to swing your net. You can also use the terrain to your advantage. If there is a cliff or water nearby, you can use it as a barrier to limit the tarantula’s movement, and make the catching process easier.
Tips for Catching Tarantulas
Catching tarantulas requires patience and skill. It’s essential to be prepared and to understand their behavior. Always keep your net ready. Equip your net before approaching. Move slowly and deliberately. This will minimize the chances of startling the tarantula. Be aware of your surroundings. Look out for any obstacles that might hinder your movements. Practice makes perfect, so the more you hunt them, the better you will become. Make sure you have enough space in your inventory. Emptying your pockets before a hunt helps you catch many more tarantulas.
Using the Net Effectively

Effective use of the net is key to catching tarantulas. To catch a tarantula, you need to swing your net when you are close enough to the creature. Make sure you time your swing carefully to ensure success. Position yourself strategically before swinging. Aim for a clear shot and be ready for the tarantula to move. When you see an opening, quickly swing your net. If you time it correctly, you will successfully catch the tarantula. If you miss, be ready to reposition and try again. Practice your swings to improve your accuracy. Remember that patience and precision are important for catching tarantulas.
Tarantula Farming Strategies
Tarantula farming involves creating the best conditions for tarantulas to spawn repeatedly. One effective strategy is to clear your island of all other potential insect spawn points. This includes trees, flowers, weeds, and anything else that an insect might spawn on. Removing these potential spawn points maximizes the chances of tarantulas appearing. By removing all of those items, you can essentially force tarantulas to spawn. Some players also choose to visit mystery islands. These islands can be customized in a way that makes them perfect for tarantula hunting. Remember to bring a lot of nets to ensure you have enough to catch all the tarantulas.
In conclusion, tarantulas in Animal Crossing are a great way to earn Bells. By understanding their behavior, habitat, and best catching techniques, players can turn tarantula hunting into a profitable and exciting activity. From knowing where to find them, to knowing the best times to catch them and even strategies to farm them, the information is out there. So, grab your net, head out into the night, and start earning those Bells. Happy hunting!
