Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, and environment of tarantula spiders.

Highlights interesting features of this largest of all spiders.

Provides young readers with facts about several strange spiders.

Most people think of tarantula spiders as big, black, hairy, and creepy! But tarantulas can be orange, green, and even turquoise. Some have pink toes! This book introduces young readers to tarantula spiders. Students will learn about tarantula spiders' sizes, behaviors, habits, dietary needs, methods of defense, anatomy, and color. Reproduction and spiderling development are also introduced. A diagram of a spider's body aids readers in indentifying anatomical features. Threats to the spiders and their habitat including predators and humans are covered. Readers will also learn about the many types of shelters tarantulas build. A distribution map shows where tarantula spiders are found, so the young arachnologist can be on the lookout for a specimen to observe. For the less adventurous, full-color photos allow close observation from the comfort of the library! Glossary words in bold, phonetic spellings, and an index supplement easy-to-read text. These books are ideal for research reports and general reading. Checkerboard Library is an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.

Find out how the world's biggest spider uses its deadly fangs, scares away enemies, and turns the hairs on its body into weapons.

This book introduces readers to the unique features of tarantulas. Basic information is covered, such as anatomy, habitat, life cycle, range, diet, predators, and prey. Table of contents, diagrams, interesting facts, glossary, and index are included. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Big Buddy Books is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO.

Spiders are among the most diverse groups of terrestrial invertebrates, yet they are among the least studied and understood. This first comprehensive guide to all 68 spider families in North America beautifully illustrates 469 of the most commonly encountered species. Group keys enable identification by web type and other observable details, and species descriptions include identification tips, typical habitat, geographic distribution, and behavioral notes. A concise illustrated introduction to spider biology and anatomy explains spider relationships. This book is a critical resource for curious naturalists who want to understand this ubiquitous and ecologically critical component of our biosphere.

A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year: A “fascinating” photo-filled book on these amazing arachnids! (Booklist) Yellow blood? Skeletons on the outside? These attributes don’t belong to comic book characters or alien life forms, but to Earth’s biggest and hairiest spiders: tarantulas. In this book you are invited to follow Sam Marshall, spider scientist extraordinaire (he’s never been bitten), as he explores the dense rain forest of French Guiana, knocking on the doors of tarantula burrows, trying to get a closer look at these incredible creatures. You’ll also visit the largest comparative spider laboratory in America—where close to five hundred live tarantulas sit in towers of stacked shoeboxes and plastic containers, waiting for their turn to dazzle and astound the scientists who study them. “Superb color photos abound in this spectacular series addition…This is a vivid look at an enthusiastic scientist energetically and happily at work…A treat, even for arachnophobes.”—School Library Journal (starred review) A Sibert Honor Book An ALA Notable Book A John Burroughs Nature Book for Young Readers A Kirkus Reviews Editors Choice

Tarantulas are the hairy spiders of many people's nightmares. Piranhas are a type of fish known for their razor-sharp teeth and fierce bite. A battle between these two animals would certainly make for an interesting fight. Readers of this stimulating book will learn about habitats, adaptations, and many other factors that could help determine who the champion of such a match would be. Bright photographs and concise facts hold readers' attention while they decide who will win this beastly battle.