Wandering-male
Guides
Aphonopelma hentzi
Texas Brown Tarantula, Oklahoma Brown Tarantula, Missouri Tarantula
Aphonopelma hentzi is one of the most common tarantula species in the southern United States, with a broad distribution across the south-central region. Adults typically exceed a four-inch leg span and weigh more than 3 ounces. The body is uniformly dark brown, with coloration becoming more distinct following molting. This species is notable for its male wandering behavior during late summer and fall, when mature males travel substantial distances searching for females. The species serves as host to parasitoid spider wasps, including Pepsis mildei.