Arachnid · Other spider
Six-eyed sand spider care guide
Hexophthalma hahni
The six-eyed sand spider is a expert-level other spider from Namibia, South Africa. Adults reach Leg span 5–7 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. Buries itself in fine sand; potent cytotoxic venom means locked housing and long tools only.
- Enclosure 30 × 20 × 20 cm
- Temp 25–32°C
- Humidity 20–40%
How much does a six-eyed sand spider cost in Canada?
Six-eyed sand spider quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- Leg span 5–7 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Namibia, South Africa
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 25–32°C
- Humidity
- 20–40%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
- Bioactive style
- Arid desert
Six-eyed sand spider enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a arid desert bioactive build.
- Soil and sand mix8 cm
A deep, sandy mix packed firmly lets burrows hold their shape; keep only the deepest layer faintly moist.
Temperature: 25–32°C. Humidity: 20–40%. UVB: Not needed.
Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.
What does a six-eyed sand spider eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 1–2 crickets every 1–2 weeks.
Handling, temperament & health
Never handle; use long tongs and a catch container, and keep the enclosure locked.
Health watch: Too much humidity and poor ventilation cause deaths; keep it dry with a tiny water dish or a lightly misted corner weekly.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check basking temperatures; refresh water (or mist lightly for species that drink droplets).
Weekly
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Lightly moisten one deep corner so burrows hold and isopods survive.
- Check rock stacks are stable.
Yearly
- Refresh the top layer; replace UVB bulbs on schedule.
Recommended for a six-eyed sand spider bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 20 × 20 cm).
Six-eyed sand spider FAQ
Is the six-eyed sand spider good for beginners?
No – the six-eyed sand spider is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Never handle; use long tongs and a catch container, and keep the enclosure locked.
What size enclosure does a six-eyed sand spider need?
At least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (about 12 × 8 × 8 inches, roughly 3 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a six-eyed sand spider cost in Canada?
Typically $80–200 CAD to buy, about $110–210 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $30–60 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a six-eyed sand spider need?
Temperature: 25–32°C. Humidity: 20–40%.
What does a six-eyed sand spider eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 1–2 crickets every 1–2 weeks.
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.