A tarantula discovered by a stunned Donegal shopper is to take up permanent residence in Letterkenny’s Tropical World.
The unusual stowaway was found hiding in a bunch of wrapped bananas bought recently at a local supermarket.
Parker, as the spider has since become known, has been identified as a Mexican red rump. It is around four months old and relatively harmless.
ISPCA Care Assistant Leela Voss, experienced in handling exotic animals, assisted the surprised member of the public. She said once the spider matures to adulthood it can be determined whether it is a male or female.
Parker is now in the care of the ISPCA but once old enough, the adventurous arachnid will be transferred to Alcorn’s Tropical World.
ISPCA Centre Manager Denise McCausland said the spider is recovering well after a long journey from Central America.
“Parker was carefully captured and transferred in a secure box before being admitted to the ISPCA Animal Rescue Centre for a closer inspection.
“A veterinary examination confirmed that Parker was very dehydrated and lethargic after his travels but after some water and mini-crickets to eat, he began to perk up very quickly.
“Parker was placed in an appropriate humid habitat in temperature and moisture levels suitable for his species and was closely monitored over a number of weeks.
“He has already grown in size and is continuously spinning elaborate webs all around his enclosure.”
Despite the picture painted by Hollywood, tarantulas rarely bite people. And when they do it is often no worse than a bee sting.
The female tarantula can live for up to 30 years while males tend not to survive beyond ten years.
In Parker’s case the next few weeks, as its exoskeleton hardens, will be crucial. After that he or she will be on the move to their new home.
Denise McCausland added, “Parker will be transferred to Alcorn’s Tropical World nearby where his permanent home awaits. There Parker can live the solitary life he requires in a purpose built vivarium fit for a spider prince or princess.”
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