Arachnid · Other spider
California trapdoor spider care guide
Bothriocyrtum californicum
The california trapdoor spider is a intermediate-level other spider from S California, Baja California. Adults reach Body 2.5–3 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Needs deep, compacted clay-soil mix to build its corked trapdoor burrow.
- Enclosure 20 × 20 × 20 cm
- Temp 20–25°C
- Humidity 50–65%
How much does a california trapdoor spider cost in Canada?
California trapdoor spider quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- Body 2.5–3 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- S California, Baja California
- Minimum enclosure
- 20 × 20 × 20 cm (8 × 8 × 8 in, ≈ 2 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 20–25°C
- Humidity
- 50–65%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
- Bioactive style
- Burrowing tarantula
California trapdoor spider enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 20 × 20 × 20 cm (8 × 8 × 8 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a burrowing tarantula bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Tarantula Mix15 cm
Deep, slightly packed soil lets burrows hold their shape. Moisten the lower layers; the top can be drier.
Temperature: 20–25°C. Humidity: 50–65%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a california trapdoor spider eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 1–2 crickets every 1–2 weeks, dropped near the trapdoor.
Handling, temperament & health
Reclusive and slow; it stays in its burrow, so observe rather than handle.
Health watch: Disturbing the burrow forces it to rebuild; leave the trapdoor alone and keep deep soil slightly moist.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Visual check only.
Weekly
- Offer food at the burrow entrance; remove leftovers.
- Refill water; moisten one corner so the deep soil stays damp.
Monthly
- Check moisture deep down by pouring a little water at the edge.
Yearly
- Rehouse as the spider grows.
Recommended for a california trapdoor spider bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (20 × 20 × 20 cm).
California trapdoor spider FAQ
Is the california trapdoor spider good for beginners?
The california trapdoor spider is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Reclusive and slow; it stays in its burrow, so observe rather than handle.
What size enclosure does a california trapdoor spider need?
At least 20 × 20 × 20 cm (about 8 × 8 × 8 inches, roughly 2 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a california trapdoor spider cost in Canada?
Typically $40–100 CAD to buy, about $80–140 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $20–40 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a california trapdoor spider need?
Temperature: 20–25°C. Humidity: 50–65%.
What does a california trapdoor spider eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 1–2 crickets every 1–2 weeks, dropped near the trapdoor.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.