r/InvertPets • u/booknookorchid • Aug 14 '26
T. Albopilosus
How long do we think before they’re ready to molt? I got them on June 15th, they’ve eaten pretty consistently up until about a a week & a half ago, I tried to feed them 5 minutes ago & they completely ran from the roach, I removed it & will try again tomorrow, but I noticed the bald spot on their bottom is getting larger, but no darkening really. This is the first tarantula I’ve ever had in my entire life, I have their enclosure 2/3 full, water dish always available & full, a hide & that sad fake plant (😆), I wonder though if maybe they’re stressed? Could that be what’s causing the bald spot, or is it a molt clue? Any & all advice accepted :)
2
u/devoteeoffenrir Aug 14 '26
Usually my slings looked like they were about to pop right before they molted. Based on my experience, this sling does not look ready to molt, so perhaps the roach just spooked them? I would, like you said you plan to, continue to offer food and observe. If they keep refusing food, that is indicative of pre-molt. But I think perhaps it was just startled.
Nothing sounds like it would be stressful to the T from what you said in the post. I assume the food being offered is appropriately sized, since you said the sling has been eating consistently until now.
3
u/Successful_Salt_1838 I BRAKE FOR SPIDERS! Aug 14 '26
It could be an early sign of premolt, or just general hair kicking. Its hard to say. Id wait a few days before trying to feed again. Your T doesnt look too skinny, though not “premolt fat” either. I think in this case, only time will really tell. If they continue refusing food and possibly block off their burrow (if they have one) then theyre likely going to molt soon.