Understanding Tarantulas in Animal Crossing
Tarantulas are one of the most valuable and sought-after insects in Animal Crossing New Horizons. These creatures, known for their intimidating appearance, can be a great source of Bells if you know how to catch them. However, they also pose a threat as they can bite your character, causing them to faint. Understanding the basics of tarantula behavior, their spawn conditions, and the best times to hunt them is crucial for successful catching. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to become a tarantula-catching expert, increasing your chances of filling your pockets with Bells and maybe even getting some unique island decor!
Where to Find Tarantulas in Animal Crossing New Horizons
Tarantulas primarily spawn on your own island, but the conditions have to be right. While you can encounter them on your island, the best place to hunt tarantulas is on Mystery Islands. These islands offer a controlled environment where tarantula spawning can be maximized. The most common type of island for tarantula hunting is a flat island with few trees, which allows for clear visibility and easy maneuverability. Remember that tarantulas do not appear all the time and are subject to specific spawn conditions. To maximize your chances, consider visiting a Mystery Island at night, when the conditions are ideal for tarantula appearances. This approach can yield significant results if you are looking to catch several of them to either sell or decorate your island with.
Tarantula Spawn Mechanics

Tarantulas, like other insects and fish in Animal Crossing, have specific spawn mechanics. They typically spawn at night, between 7 PM and 4 AM, in the Northern Hemisphere during the months of November to April and in the Southern Hemisphere from May to October. Several factors can influence their spawn rate, including the presence of other bugs and the overall environment of the island. To increase the chances of tarantula spawning, clearing your island of other bugs, like butterflies and beetles, is essential. This can be achieved by removing trees, flowers, and any other items that bugs may spawn on. This creates the perfect environment for tarantulas to appear freely, without competition from other bugs. Remember that the more tarantulas you catch, the more Bells you’ll earn!
How Rain Affects Tarantula Spawns
Rain plays a crucial role in tarantula spawning in Animal Crossing New Horizons. While rain doesn’t necessarily prevent tarantulas from spawning, it significantly decreases their spawn rate. The best conditions for tarantulas are clear nights. Rain can make it difficult to see the tarantulas and reduce the effectiveness of your hunting strategy. On rainy nights, you may find fewer tarantulas than usual, and your hunting experience might be less productive. Therefore, it’s best to hunt tarantulas on clear, moonlit nights for the best results. However, don’t give up if it rains; just know that the spawn rate is lower.
Best Times to Catch Tarantulas
The ideal time to catch tarantulas is during the late evening and early morning hours. Specifically, they are most active between 7 PM and 4 AM. The time of year is also a crucial factor. In the Northern Hemisphere, tarantulas appear most frequently from November to April. In the Southern Hemisphere, they are most common from May to October. Always check the weather forecast in your game to plan your hunting sessions. A clear night is the best condition to find a lot of tarantulas. This strategy will provide you with a higher chance of encountering and successfully catching tarantulas.
Preparation is Key Before Hunting

Before embarking on your tarantula-catching adventure, proper preparation is key. You must have a reliable net, which is a must-have tool. Additionally, ensure you have enough inventory space to store the tarantulas you catch, and consider selling any unwanted items to make room. Equip yourself with the net and empty your pockets as much as possible. It’s also a good idea to bring a ladder and vaulting pole, in case the Mystery Island requires these tools. Planning ahead will save you from the frustration of running out of space or not having the right equipment, ultimately allowing you to maximize your hunting efficiency. This is something that all professional hunters do.
Essential Tools to Catch Tarantulas
The most essential tool for catching tarantulas is a sturdy net. Make sure you have a durable net that won’t break easily. You may also consider bringing a backup net, in case your main net breaks during the hunt. While not essential, a shovel can be useful for digging up tree stumps and other obstacles on Mystery Islands, making it easier to maneuver. It is better to focus on having a high-quality net in your inventory. Prepare your inventory ahead of the hunt, because this will make catching them easier.
Techniques for Safe Tarantula Hunting
Tarantulas can be dangerous if approached carelessly. They will chase you and bite your character if you run towards them or get too close. The best way to catch tarantulas safely is to approach them slowly and cautiously. When you spot a tarantula, hold down the A button to ready your net. Slowly move toward the tarantula until it raises its front legs in a defensive posture. Stop moving and wait for the tarantula to lower its legs. Once the tarantula has calmed down, continue approaching it slowly, and when you are close enough, swing your net to catch it. Repeat this process for each tarantula you encounter to ensure you avoid bites and successfully capture them.
The Approach

The approach is the most important part of tarantula hunting. Your approach must be careful and calculated. When you spot a tarantula, keep a safe distance. Ready your net by holding down the A button. Slowly walk towards the tarantula until it stands on its hind legs, ready to attack. At this point, stop moving. If you keep approaching, you will be bitten. Wait for the tarantula to lower its legs again. This means it’s safe to move again. Repeat this process, slowly moving closer with each step, until you are close enough to swing your net. This is a slow process, but it is the safest way to avoid getting bitten.
The Catch
Once you are close enough to the tarantula, it’s time to strike. The goal is to swing your net and catch the tarantula before it has a chance to attack. Once you are as close as you can get, release the A button to swing your net and hopefully capture the tarantula. If your timing is right, you will successfully catch the tarantula, and it will be added to your inventory. If your timing is off, the tarantula will bite you. This technique takes practice, but it is essential for catching the tarantulas safely. Practicing will help you to master the art of catching them.
What to Do with Your Tarantulas
Once you’ve caught a tarantula, you have several options. You can donate it to Blathers at the museum to add it to the insect collection. You can also sell it to Timmy and Tommy at Nook’s Cranny for a significant profit. Another fun option is to use tarantulas as decorations on your island. Place them around your home, in gardens, or on display in your house. This can add a unique touch to your island design. You can even release the tarantulas on your island. The choice is yours, but each option has its benefits!
Selling Tarantulas for Profit

Selling tarantulas is one of the best ways to make Bells in Animal Crossing New Horizons. Each tarantula sells for 8,000 Bells at Nook’s Cranny, which is a significant profit. By dedicating time to hunting, you can quickly accumulate a large amount of Bells. The more tarantulas you catch, the more money you can make. Just be careful not to get bitten, as this will reset your progress. This is one of the most popular ways to make Bells in the game. This is also a great way to upgrade your home and buy more items.
Tarantulas as Island Decor
Besides selling them, tarantulas can also be used as unique island decor. You can place them in terrariums, display them in your home, or create themed areas around your island. They add a special touch to your island, allowing you to show off your achievements. They can be a great conversation starter when visitors come to your island, demonstrating your dedication to the game. Experiment with different arrangements to create the perfect look. Some players even create tarantula-themed rooms, which shows their appreciation for the insect.
In conclusion, catching tarantulas in Animal Crossing New Horizons can be a rewarding experience. Understanding their spawn conditions, using the right techniques, and being prepared can significantly increase your chances of success. So, grab your net, head out at night, and start your tarantula-catching adventure. With some practice, you’ll be raking in Bells and decorating your island with these unique creatures. Happy hunting!
