throughout its body,

and it's got a temperament to match.

(whimsical music)

The Fireleg tarantula's body is a brownish black color,

with a rich red hue along it's legs.

This spider is a mid-size new world tarentula,

growing around 5 to 6 inches.

This particular species is easily provoked

when surrounded by other animals.

When feeling threatened, they flick off

what are know as urticating hairs,

which cause irritation

and a burning sensation to predators.

Native to Mexico, the Fireleg tarentula

prefers dry scrub land.

They are a terrestrial species often found

in burrows self made or abandoned by rodents and lizards.

The illegal pet trade, combined

with ongoing destruction of natural habitat,

causes considerable concern for the future of this species.

This is the Mexican Fireleg tarentula.

(whimsical music)