Aphonopelma smithi

Also known as the Bay Area Blond tarantula, "A. Smithi" is found in Northern California.

Habitat

This spider lives in an underground burrow lined with silk for most of its life, until it is about 7 years old, when it reaches puberty and the males leave the burrow to find mates. Males can be found on Mount Diablo trying to find mates from September to early October. Many people go out to see the tarantulas at this time of the year.

Behavior

"A. Smithi" is a relatively skittish species, and can be disturbed easily. One should not attempt to handle this species, as anyone could upset the spider, possibly resulting in injury to the handler or the spider