Tarantula Farming in Animal Crossing What You Need to Know
Tarantula farming in Animal Crossing New Horizons is a lucrative, albeit sometimes nerve-wracking, activity that can significantly boost your in-game bank balance. This ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the behavior of these eight-legged creatures to maximizing your profit and avoiding those nasty bites. Whether you’re a seasoned island resident or a newcomer looking to make some serious Bells, this guide is your key to tarantula farming success. Get ready to transform your island into a tarantula paradise and watch your fortune grow. This guide will also delve into the nuances of water bugs, and how they impact your farming strategy.
Understanding Tarantulas & Their Behavior
Tarantulas in Animal Crossing are nocturnal creatures, appearing primarily between 7 PM and 4 AM. They are easily startled and will chase you if you approach them too quickly. The key to successful farming is understanding their behavior. They move relatively slowly, but their attacks are swift and deadly, causing you to faint and respawn at your house. They can spawn on any land tile on your island, but their spawning is limited by the presence of other bugs and creatures. Water bugs also play a significant role, as they can occupy spawn locations that could otherwise be used by tarantulas. Careful observation is critical, learn how to spot the differences between them and water bugs, and how to approach them carefully. They will also attack if provoked.
Identifying Tarantula Spawn Locations

Tarantulas will spawn in any open space on your island. This means clear land is key. Look for spaces free of flowers, trees, furniture, and weeds. They often spawn near cliffs, rivers, and beaches. The rate at which they appear is often determined by the number of available spawn points. To maximize your chances, you’ll want to clear out any obstacles that could potentially prevent them from spawning. Pay close attention to the areas where other bugs are appearing, as this can give you an idea of where tarantulas might also choose to appear. Regularly patrol your island to check for new spawns, being mindful of the time of day and your own movements. The spawn rate is increased the more you clear.
The Role of Water Bugs in Farming
Water bugs are a significant factor in tarantula farming because they can interfere with tarantula spawns. They appear on bodies of water, occupying spawn points that tarantulas could use. If your island has a lot of ponds or rivers, this can reduce your tarantula farming efficiency. Managing water bugs involves strategic island design and active management. You might need to remove or alter some of your water features, depending on your layout. While they cannot be removed completely, reducing their numbers is beneficial for a more successful tarantula farming experience, allowing more opportunities for tarantulas to spawn. Be sure to clear the water of any water bugs as you are setting up. The more you reduce their numbers, the more effective your tarantula farming will be. You can scare the water bugs away.
Preparing Your Island for Tarantula Farming
Before you start, you’ll need to prepare your island for tarantula farming. This involves clearing out any obstacles that might impede tarantula spawning and creating a dedicated space for them to appear. A well-prepared island will maximize your chances of encountering these valuable insects. Effective island preparation is the foundation of a successful farming operation. The more preparation you put in upfront, the more successful your farming sessions will be. Ensure you take the time needed to layout your island in such a way that maximizes your yields.
Clearing the Island of Obstacles

The most important step is to clear your island of anything that could prevent tarantulas from spawning. This includes flowers (you can dig them up and replant them elsewhere), trees, weeds, and any furniture or items left lying around. You can dig up flowers, chop down trees, and remove any items lying on the ground. The idea is to leave only open space, ideally on the higher areas of your island. Weeds can be tedious, so ensure they are removed or you will suffer the consequences. Aim for a completely clear landscape to maximize the spawning potential. Remember, clear space equals more tarantulas. Clear any obstacles to maximize your yield.
Creating a Dedicated Tarantula Farm
To create a dedicated farm, choose a specific area on your island – typically a secluded spot. The most effective farms often involve an island layout that prevents tarantulas from easily escaping. This can include creating cliffs or fences to limit their movement. You can also use the “island method”, where you create a small island in a pond and clear it of all vegetation except grass, allowing tarantulas to spawn there freely. A designated farm allows you to control the environment and predict spawning patterns, which is critical for success. Consider water features, elevation changes, and strategic placement of fences or cliffs. A well-designed farm can streamline the farming process.
Optimizing Island Layout for Efficiency
The layout of your island directly impacts the efficiency of your tarantula farm. Aim for a design that funnels tarantulas into a specific area, making them easier to catch. The shape of your island can also make a difference. A long, narrow island can make it easier to spot and catch tarantulas. The fewer obstacles the better. This will mean less time spent wandering around and more time catching. If you are designing from scratch, plan your island layout with tarantula farming in mind. The key is to minimize obstacles and create clear pathways. Consider creating a U-shape to move around your farm. Efficiency will save you time and increase your profits.
The Best Tools & Equipment

Having the right tools is essential for successful tarantula farming. The most important tool is, of course, the net. However, there are other important tools and items to consider. You’ll want to prepare these items before setting out to farm, as it can be time-consuming to prepare your tools. The better your tools are, the better your chances are of becoming a wealthy tarantula farmer. The right tools are key to your success.
Essential Tools for Catching Tarantulas
The most crucial tool is a sturdy fishing net, and you should always carry multiple nets. A flimsy net will break quickly, especially if you accidentally miss a catch. Ensure you have a good supply of nets to avoid having to run back to the shop. Upgraded tools will last longer, but even the best tools will break eventually. A reliable shovel can be useful for digging up flowers and trees or creating pathways. A sturdy axe is great for chopping down any obstacles, and you should always have one in your pocket. Always be prepared with extra nets.
Crafting & Using Fishing Nets
You can craft a net using the DIY workbench. The recipe for a flimsy net is relatively simple. You can get the recipe from the shop. Using better nets will last longer and will be stronger to withstand more catches. When crafting, consider upgrading your tools to the next tier. Use the net by sneaking up on the tarantula. The better quality your net is, the less you will worry about it breaking when you go to catch one. Make sure your nets are always repaired or replaced.
How to Effectively Catch Tarantulas

Catching tarantulas requires patience, skill, and a strategic approach. Knowing the proper techniques will greatly increase your success rate. The slightest misstep can result in a bite, so careful planning is essential. Always approach tarantulas with caution. If you are not patient and methodical, you will fail. The basic strategy is to be patient and follow the steps below. Your profits will increase, but be prepared to fail occasionally. Remember to be patient, take your time, and learn the correct approach.
The Stalking Technique for Catching Tarantulas
The key to catching tarantulas is to move slowly and deliberately. Hold down the A button to equip your net and creep towards the tarantula. If it raises its front legs, stop moving until it lowers them. Once it’s calm, slowly advance again. Repeat this process until you’re close enough to swing your net. This slow and steady approach minimizes the risk of frightening the tarantula. If you see them raise their legs, stay still! This is how you avoid being bitten and fainting. The stalking technique is the most important part of catching tarantulas.
The Timing of Tarantula Appearances
Tarantulas are most active between 7 PM and 4 AM. This is the prime time for farming. You won’t find them during the daytime. Be sure to factor in the time of day when planning your farming sessions. You should make sure you have adequate time for farming, as it can be time-consuming. Use this timeframe to your advantage to maximize your yields. To maximize your farming time, plan ahead. Be sure to do your farming at night to find tarantulas.
Dealing with Aggressive Tarantulas

If a tarantula spots you, it will raise its front legs and begin to move towards you aggressively. If this happens, stop moving immediately. If it continues to approach, you may need to run and reset the situation. The aggressive tarantula will start to chase you. If you are bitten, you will faint and respawn, and your inventory will reset. By following the stalking technique, you can minimize the risk of being bitten. Running away is the best strategy to get away from an aggressive tarantula.
Maximizing Your Profit From Tarantula Farming
Tarantula farming can be a very profitable activity, but you need to optimize your strategy to get the most out of it. You will need to understand both the market and the crafting. Be sure to learn the best ways to maximize your profits. Maximizing profits is the name of the game.
Selling Tarantulas at Nook’s Cranny
The primary way to make money from tarantulas is to sell them at Nook’s Cranny. Each tarantula sells for a significant amount of Bells, making it a lucrative venture. You can sell your tarantulas to Timmy and Tommy, or wait for Flick’s visit (if you want to make even more). Selling tarantulas at Nook’s Cranny will provide immediate returns and help you build up your savings quickly. This is the easiest method to generate income. Nook’s Cranny is the primary source of income for your tarantulas.
Using Tarantulas for Crafting

While the primary use for tarantulas is selling them, you can also use them for crafting. Flick, a special visitor to your island, will buy tarantulas for a higher price, and he may offer special items made from them. These items can be decorative, or you can create them on your own. This will reduce your profit potential, but may be useful for your goals. Crafting is not the best way to make money, but it can be useful to get special items.
The Risks & Rewards of Tarantula Farming
Tarantula farming is not without its challenges. You face the risk of being bitten, which can be frustrating. The rewards, however, are well worth the effort, making it a highly sought-after activity. Weighing the risks against the rewards is key to making a decision on whether tarantula farming is right for you. The rewards are well worth the risk if you learn how to do it right. The rewards are great, but the risks are equally high.
Avoiding Tarantula Bites
The most significant risk is being bitten by a tarantula. If you’re bitten, you’ll faint, lose your progress, and respawn at your house. To avoid bites, follow the stalking technique, move slowly and carefully, and always be aware of your surroundings. Keeping a safe distance and approaching cautiously is crucial. The less likely you are to take risks, the less likely you are to get bit. Patience and awareness are your best tools.
Dealing with Water Bugs
Water bugs can disrupt your tarantula farming, as they occupy spawn points. To deal with this, you can remove ponds and other water features, though this isn’t always practical. The best approach is to be patient and keep checking the surrounding areas for tarantulas. Clearing the spawn points of water bugs is not always possible, but you can clear the spawn points of any obstacles that might prevent tarantula spawning. Water bugs are a nuisance, and you need to do your best to manage them. Reduce the number of water bugs to increase your chance of success.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tarantula Farming
Here are some of the most common questions about tarantula farming. Being prepared with the answers to these questions can improve your understanding of this activity. Being prepared for the common questions is a great way to ensure your success.
Tarantula farming in Animal Crossing can be a fun and profitable endeavor. With the right preparation, tools, and techniques, you can turn your island into a tarantula-catching paradise. Remember to be patient, approach with caution, and always be aware of your surroundings. Happy farming!