California's Tarantula Mating Season: When and Where to Spot Them in L.A.
California is home to ten tarantula species, with two residing in Los Angeles County. These creatures, while venomous, pose no threat to humans. The ideal time to spot them in Southern California mountains is after rain, at night, during their mating season from late summer to early fall.
The California tarantula (Aphonopelma spp.), particularly Aphonopelma eutylenum, is commonly found in the mountains around Los Angeles. During mating season, males wander in search of females, making this period the best time for observation. Urbanization, however, poses risks during this time, such as drowning in pools or being hit by cars. The most common tarantula in L.A. County is the California ebony tarantula, with females reaching a leg span of up to five inches. These tarantulas can be found in various Southern California mountains, including Griffith Park, during their mating season. While tarantulas use their venom for eating prey, it's not harmful to humans. Interestingly, female tarantulas sometimes consume their male suitors after mating.
Tarantulas thrive in mountain habitats and can be seen in Southern California during their mating season, which runs from July to November. The Natural History Museum of L.A. County offers a spider pavilion through November, allowing visitors to observe tarantulas and other spiders in a safe and educational environment.
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