Although Springfield doesn’t have many tarantulas, they’re much more common just south of the area—especially in the rocky, untamed stretches of the Mark Twain National Forest and around Table Rock Lake.

If you’re planning a hike, be prepared to see more tarantulas on the move. They’re not just wandering—they’re looking for love.

Usually timid and nocturnal, these spiders come out during late summer and early fall as males leave their burrows in search of a mate.

Tarantulas in southwest Missouri—primarily the Texas brown tarantula (Aphonopelma hentzi)—are not dangerous to humans.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

 What to Know:

• Venom: They are venomous (like all spiders), but their venom is mild and generally causes only minor irritation, similar to a bee sting.

• Bites: Bites are rare. Tarantulas are shy and non-aggressive, and they typically only bite if they’re cornered or feel threatened.

• Defense: They may kick off tiny urticating hairs from their abdomen if disturbed. These can irritate the skin or eyes but are not harmful unless you’re very sensitive.

Hiker Tips:

• Observe from a distance.

• Don’t try to handle or provoke them.

• They’re most active at dusk or night during late summer and early fall, especially when males are out looking for mates.

So in short: they may look intimidating, but Missouri’s tarantulas are harmless unless messed with.