The newest hands-on exhibit at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University will feature nearly 20 species of tarantulas. Among the species on display are the Goliath bird-eating tarantula (the largest of all tarantulas) and the rare green bottle blue tarantula. Starting on Saturday, Jan. 30 the museum will present the spiders and a schedule of interactive activities for all ages.
There will also be a scavenger hunt, a “Tarantulas of the World” interactive map, live feedings and a chance to view spider fangs under a microscope.
Guests can also step into an air current that simulates the sensitivities of a hairy tarantula or play in a human-sized bug collecting jar.
The most exciting part of the exhibit, however, is that every Saturday and Sunday at 11:45 a.m. a tarantula will be taken out of its enclosure so that a tarantula keeper can talk about the spider's features and answer questions.
The museum hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.
Prepare for your visit with little-known tarantula facts or read up on what tarantula tastes like.
Tarantulas: Alive and Up Close
Saturday, Jan. 30 to Monday, May 30
$3-$5 per person
Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
(215) 299-1000