Accepted Answer

Thank you for getting back to me. To be honest with you, it does sound like your tarantula is dying. It's not uncommon for a molt to go bad, even in a healthy spider. For now, though, we'll assume he's still alive.

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. Don't mist so much that the substrate becomes soggy. 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 molting. Doing so can harm them. You can read more about maintaining a proper habitat at the following site:

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

About all you can do is make sure all conditions are optimal. Even if you've already done that. things can still go wrong when a spider is shedding. Until you see definite signs of death, such as the curled under legs, you can keep misting and providing the proper temperature. If you have more questions, just let me know by clicking on REPLY. I hope my suspicions that your tarantula is dying are wrong, and that he'll finish his molt in good health.

Anna

Expert:	Anna
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	1/10/2009

Pet Expert/Biologist

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