Accepted Answer

Hello,

You should VERY gently put the tarantula on its back. A moulting tarantula is fragile, and it may have already been hurt by being moved the first time, but it needs to be in the proper position to shed its skin.   Moulting itself is extremely stressful to a tarantula, and even healthy ones die during the process. There's no way to be sure yours will be OK. You'll just have to provide the proper conditions and hope for the best. Be sure the humidity in the cage is at least 55%, and preferably 70%. Insufficient humidity during a molt can lead to death.You can increase humidity by keeping a large, shallow water bowl in the enclosure and by misting daily. The temperature should be maintained at 70 to 72*F. If you keep your home cooler than that, you may want to consider a low wattage bulb at the proper height over the cage to maintain the temperature in the right range. It is very important not to touch or disturb a tarantula that is preparing to molt, so once the tarantula is on its back, don't disturb it again.   You can read more about maintaining a proper habitat at the following site:

http://arachnophiliac.info/burrow/caresheets/grammostola_rosea.htm

If you have more questions about this, just let me know by clicking on REPLY. I hope your tarantula will moult with no further complications.

Anna

Expert:	Anna
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	12/28/2008

Pet Expert/Biologist

40 yrs.: herps, pocket pets, rabbits, poultry, dogs, horses. Biology degree. Volunteer vet assistant