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Goliath birdeater

The Goliath birdeater (*Theraphosa blondi*) is a large tarantula native to the rainforests of northern South America.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Goliath birdeater (*Theraphosa blondi*) is a large tarantula native to the rainforests of northern South America. It is widely regarded as the heaviest spider in the world and is among the largest by body size, though not by leg span.

Taxonomy and naming

The Goliath birdeater is a tarantula scientifically named *Theraphosa blondi*. Its common name reflects early reports of large prey, but the name can be misleading because birds are only an occasional food source.

Size and appearance

This species is widely considered the heaviest spider in the world, with reported masses up to about 175 g. Sources also describe it as having a leg span of nearly 30 cm and a robust, hairy body.

Habitat and behaviour

The species lives in burrows in tropical forest habitats of northern South America. It is nocturnal and typically waits for prey rather than actively pursuing it.

Diet and feeding

The Goliath birdeater mainly eats ground-dwelling invertebrates and small vertebrates. Reported prey includes insects, earthworms, frogs, lizards, snakes, rodents, and occasionally birds.

Key facts

  • The Goliath birdeater is the heaviest spider in the world, weighing up to about 175 g.
  • It is a tarantula native to northern South America, including the Amazonian rainforests.
  • Its diet consists of insects, other invertebrates, and small vertebrates such as frogs, lizards, and snakes.
  • It is a burrowing, nocturnal ambush predator.
  • Despite its name, birds are not a major part of its diet.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Goliath birdeater?
It is a large tarantula, *Theraphosa blondi*, native to northern South America.
How big is the Goliath birdeater?
It can weigh up to about 175 g and has a leg span of nearly 30 cm.
Does the Goliath birdeater really eat birds?
It can eat birds occasionally, but its usual diet is mostly insects and other small animals.
Where does the Goliath birdeater live?
It lives in tropical forest habitats, especially Amazonian rainforests in northern South America.
Is the Goliath birdeater dangerous to humans?
It is not generally considered dangerous to humans, though its size and urticating hairs can make it intimidating.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/goliath-birdeater-spider
    Supports: Scientific name, family, native range, and description as a very large South American tarantula.
  2. National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/invertebrates/facts/goliath-birdeater
    Supports: Common name, size, and description as the largest arachnid by mass.
  3. AAAS — https://www.aaas.org/news/weird-wonderful-creatures-goliath-birdeater
    Supports: Habitat, burrowing behaviour, nocturnal ambush predation, and diet.
  4. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goliath_birdeater
    Supports: Body length, leg span comparison, and additional size figures; used cautiously as a secondary reference.