Can they eat this thing?????

[dbounds10]

So I caught this GIANT,

Disgusting, harry, scarry mo-fo

in my sunroom this afternoon. It rained like crazy last night and I guess it fell out of a tree or something. I have never seen one here in 12 years!!

Can I throw it in the run or will it attack and sting my girls? I know its a silly questions but its getting the AX one way or the other and thought it might be good protein.

 

[Gallo del Cielo]

I wouldn't. It's a spider, so they don't sting, but that particular kind has what are called urticating hairs. Imagine hairs with fish hook barbs. They are a defense mechanism used largely to prevent small mammals and birds from eating them.

 

[Medicine Man]

Excellent point, Gallo del Cielo! Chickens can eat spiders no problem, but *this* type, I wouldn't let them for the reason you've given. Their tender little faces would be vulnerable.

 

[Gallo del Cielo]

Quote:
Especially the eyes!

 

[Chick Charm]

You could always keep that spider and use it for amusement on the kiddos or the other half. Just for kicks.

Don't feed that particulay spider to the chickens though. Not a good idea.

 

[dbounds10]

Thanks, never thought of that. Looks like this one is getting a ride on the rapids.....down the toilet for him!

 

[Medicine Man]

Quote:
Why not just relocate it? They do eat bugs.

 

[bullyforme]

That almost looks like a tarantula, maybe a juvenile? There could be a colony formed from escape artists or abandoned "pets"?

 

[Medicine Man]

Quote:
Could be, but I think they're simply native.

 

[dbounds10]

OMG - There better not be a colony of these things in my yard, I will have to either move or burn down my house! I am pretty sure it is a tarantula......