Feeding, Sexing and a pig named Zero

You might be wondering why I have 2 videos of Zero here.  Let me explain:

Last night was feeding time on the Desktop, and after everyone was given their crickets, I had one large cricket left.  Zero was already feasting on a cricket, but since I know how much she loves to eat, I decided to give the last one to her.

In the videos, you can see her chewing on one, next to the cricket she was originally feasting on!  PIG!!!

If you notice, Zero’s sex is being referred to as “SHE”.  Thanks to one of my many learning aids, I am pretty sure she is a FEMAL!!  WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!! (Just learned about doing this roughly 45 minutes ago!)

Feeding:

Everyone got a cricket except for Aphrodite- who appears to be not eating.  My N. Coloratvillosus traded its cricket for a roach that was living in its soil (iin a new enclosure.)  Both Nhandu sp. were moved into jars!  WHOOOO!!!

Isis is also not eating…..but I think the last cricket may have filled (her?) up for a while….

Raven ate well (L. parahybana), but her sibling is also not eating…hmmmmm..

Jars and Societies

I have just relocated the slings again.  This time, to sturdy jars.  The deli cups seemed a bit flimsy when compared to the weight of my cat, Frank.  Over the past couple of days he has taken a real interest in the desk where all of my tarantulas sit, and I didn’t want to take the chance that he would jump on top of them while I was at work.  He did that to a few crickets a couple of weeks ago (squishing 2), but luckily I was home to save the rest.

The jars are made of glass, and the lids are made with thick clear plastic that I was able to make air holes in with a drill.  I added a film cartridge to each jar (another fine use for this item), and 3 different levels of coconut substrate to suit each sling. Now, they are safe, easier to feed, and easier to peek in on.  They seem to really like their film holders!!

My older T’s have sturdy lids on their tanks, and Nata is also covered with a book on spiders (fitting, right?)

I will attempt another feeding tomorrow, as Tank has definitely not eaten yet.

In other news, I am now officially a member of the American Tarantula Society!!  I am stoked to be getting their magazine, and am waiting confirmation so I can post to their forums.  Happiness!!