Scarab wrote: You must first make the spider aware that you are there, so touch the webbing and/or substrate, then approach from the front. Once your spider is aware that some activity is happening, you can "herd" it by gently touching the hind legs or abdomen.

The idea is to eliminate the surprise because a surprise approach is likely to trigger some form of defense.

You might have seen a spider grab a cricket in mid air when you feed? That is how sensitive they are to movement. Some are as sensitive to light. The faintest shadow (change in light) moving over them will warn them of impending activity. Now you open the lid and start prodding away. This causes a reaction. If you work gently and slowly, you reduce the likelihood of the spider reacting with a defensive attitude.

As a matter of interest, I have once moved a P metallica female from one enclosure to another with a bright light. I never touched her, but used the torch like you would use a brush. She kept moving away from the light, so I could determine where I wanted her to go.

Noted. I shall start putting this into practice. Thanks!

With regards your light technique on P. metallica, I employ a left field technique on my T. ockerti slings. I have noticed that they are extremely sensitive to "airflow". So I just blow gently on them to move them away from the top of the enclosure during feeding time. They are about 2.5 - 3cm in size, so that might not work when they are bigger, but I suspect it will though.

Scarab, I made the "rear end approach mistake" with my B. vagans about a week ago... wanted to nudge it off the cage wall onto the floor with pliers (gently according to my standards!)... the bloody thing snapped around and grabbed the pliers so quickly, I really almost shit myself and scared the hell out of my mother in law (almost dropped it on her lap, haha!). I've learned my lesson, and will definitely try your suggested "awareness" method. Thanks!

I have handle my c.Rose

I know it works based on my limited experience and a hint of common sense.

I must admit though, calling ANY Tarantula "the bloody thing" is not so Spunky... unless you are inadvertently referring to your husband...

"The rear end approach" ??? Let's rather not go there... :laugh:

OH, I almost forgot... In your Avatar, why are you eating that poor child Anna??

Scarab wrote: I know it works based on my limited experience and a hint of common sense.

I must admit though, calling ANY Tarantula "the bloody thing" is not so Spunky... unless you are inadvertently referring to your husband...

"The rear end approach" ??? Let's rather not go there... :laugh:

OH, I almost forgot... In your Avatar, why are you eating that poor child Anna??

Awesome advice in your previous posts Scarab. Thank you so much. I am sure a few members will refer to your advice before handling T's.

I almost spat my lunch out laughing at this Scarab :laugh: Really, really witty. Sharpside