Keeper guide

How to Rehouse Mexican Red Rump Safely — Tliltocatl vagans

Rehouse a Mexican Red Rump when the current enclosure has genuinely become cramped, unsafe or difficult to maintain. For Tliltocatl vagans, preparation matters more than speed once the transfer begins.

When to rehouse

Move Tliltocatl vagans when the retreat no longer fits, required substrate depth is compromised or routine access to water and feeding has become awkward.

Do not rehouse a Mexican Red Rump after every moult automatically. If the current setup still works safely, unnecessary moves only add disturbance.

Prepare the new enclosure

Set up the destination for Tliltocatl vagans completely before opening the old enclosure. Add substrate, retreat, water and secure decor first.

Check lids, doors and ventilation gaps for the current size of the Mexican Red Rump, especially when moving a sling or small juvenile.

Prepare the work area

Clear the area around the Tliltocatl vagans enclosures and close nearby doors. Have a catch cup, long tools and any guiding container within reach.

Do not start moving a Mexican Red Rump and then stop to search for equipment. A simple, prepared work area makes the transfer easier to control.

The transfer

Guide Tliltocatl vagans into a catch cup or directly along a controlled route into the new enclosure. Avoid pinning, grabbing or trying to carry the spider by hand.

Move the Mexican Red Rump at a pace that keeps the spider contained. Fast, improvised movements are less useful than calm preparation.

After the move

Once Tliltocatl vagans is in the new enclosure, secure the lid or doors before rearranging anything else. Give the spider time to choose a retreat.

A newly rehoused Mexican Red Rump may hide or refuse food for a while. Keep water available and avoid repeatedly disturbing the enclosure while it settles.