What are Tarantulas in Animal Crossing
Tarantulas are one of the most sought-after creatures in Animal Crossing New Horizons. These large, predatory spiders are a source of both excitement and profit for players. They appear on your island, and if you’re quick and stealthy, you can catch them with your net. Tarantulas are most active during certain times of the day and year, making their appearances relatively infrequent. Catching them is an activity that has captured the hearts of Animal Crossing players, as it provides opportunities to make lots of Bells to pay off your debts to Tom Nook.
The General Spawn Mechanics
Tarantulas, like other bugs and fish in Animal Crossing, follow a specific spawning mechanic. This mechanic determines when and where they appear. The game has a random number generator (RNG) that influences the spawn rates of different creatures. The spawn rate is also influenced by the time of day, the weather, and your island’s current state. Generally, tarantulas have a low spawn rate, meaning you won’t see them very often. However, this rate can be influenced by other factors, like the type of island you’re on and the season. Understanding these underlying mechanics is the first step to improving your tarantula-hunting efficiency.
Island Types and Their Influence

Your island’s layout and the type of island you visit can significantly impact tarantula spawning. On your home island, the presence of trees, flowers, and other items can influence where tarantulas appear. Ideally, you’ll want a clear, open area. Some players even terraform their islands to create specific zones for tarantula farming. Mystery island tours also play a role. Certain mystery islands, like the ones with a flat, uncluttered terrain, are prime spots for tarantula hunting. These islands often have a higher spawn rate and are easier to navigate. Therefore, the type of island you’re on directly affects how often you see tarantulas.
Time and Weather Conditions
Tarantulas have specific time and weather preferences. They are primarily active during nighttime hours, typically from 7 PM to 4 AM. The game’s internal clock is crucial for hunting these creatures. During these hours, the chances of encountering a tarantula are significantly higher. Weather also plays a role. Rainy days will generally deter tarantulas, as they do not typically spawn in the rain. Clear weather conditions, particularly on a moonless night, create the best environment for tarantula spawning. Monitoring both the time and weather is, therefore, vital to successful tarantula hunting.
The Optimal Time for Tarantula Hunting
The best time to hunt tarantulas is during their active hours, which as mentioned, is from 7 PM to 4 AM. Within this window, the spawn rate can still vary, so it’s worth spending a significant portion of the night hunting. The ideal strategy is to prepare your island beforehand by clearing clutter to create open spaces. When you visit a mystery island, do the same. Pack your net, and be ready to move slowly and deliberately. Remember to be patient; tarantulas aren’t always abundant, but with the right conditions, you should see them. Regular checks throughout the night can maximize your haul.
How to Increase Your Chances

There are several strategies to boost your tarantula-hunting success rate. Clear your island of all flowers, weeds, and trees, leaving a wide, open space. This reduces the potential spawn locations for other bugs and creatures, increasing the likelihood of tarantulas appearing. Secondly, be mindful of other bugs. If other bugs are spawning, catch them to free up space for tarantulas. Thirdly, consider visiting a mystery island specifically for tarantula hunting. Remember to have your net at the ready, move slowly, and pause whenever a tarantula raises its front legs.
Making the Most of Tarantula Season
Tarantula season in Animal Crossing varies depending on the hemisphere. In the Northern Hemisphere, tarantulas are most active from November to April. In the Southern Hemisphere, they are active from May to October. Knowing these seasonal patterns is essential. During these months, the spawn rate increases, so you’ll have a better chance of finding them. Take advantage of this period to maximize your earnings. Preparing your island and visiting the correct mystery islands will help you make the most of the season. So check the calendar and get ready to hunt!
Dealing with Other Bugs and Creatures
One of the biggest challenges when hunting tarantulas is the presence of other bugs and creatures. Various bugs can spawn on your island, competing for spawn locations. To manage this, regularly patrol your island and catch any other bugs you find. This includes butterflies, beetles, and other insects. Removing these creatures creates more space for tarantulas. Also, be aware of the creatures that will hurt you. Scorpions, for instance, will attack you. So, it is wise to make sure you catch any other bugs and creatures, particularly if you are on a mystery island.
Maximizing Profit from Tarantulas

Tarantulas are not just exciting to catch; they are also very profitable. Selling a tarantula to Nook’s Cranny earns you 8,000 Bells per spider. If Flick is on your island, he will buy them for 12,000 Bells. This makes tarantula hunting an effective way to accumulate wealth in Animal Crossing. However, avoid getting bitten by a tarantula, because you’ll be transported back to your home. Building your bank is a process that requires diligence and good planning, but with each tarantula you catch, you get one step closer to your goals, making it a rewarding experience.
