The provided source material contains information regarding promotional offers for large tarantula species, specifically those marketed under the "Goliath" designation. These offers include standard retail pricing, discounts contingent on minimum purchase thresholds, and shipping guarantees. The data does not contain information regarding traditional consumer freebies, no-cost product trials, or mail-in sample programs typically associated with beauty, baby care, household goods, or food categories. Instead, the offers pertain to the sale of live exotic animals, specifically Theraphosa and Avicularia species.
Overview of Goliath Tarantula Species
The term "Goliath" in the exotic pet trade generally refers to species known for their large size. The source material identifies several species associated with this descriptor.
Theraphosa blondi (Goliath Birdeater) Theraphosa blondi is described as the "World’s largest spider." It is native to Northern Brazil, Guiana, French Guiana, Suriname, and South Venezuela. Females can attain diagonal leg spans of 10 to 11 inches, while males reach approximately 9 inches. The species features a cinnamon tone to its brown base color with faint pink striations along the legs. The body is covered in a velvet-like layer of fine setae and substantial urticating setae on the abdomen. In the wild, these tarantulas are ambush predators capable of dispatching small vertebrates, including snakes and antbirds.
Theraphosa apophysis (Goliath PinkToe Bird Eater) Theraphosa apophysis is described as one of the most stunning true giant tarantula species. Adults can reach nearly 11 inches in leg span. The species is noted for its coloration, featuring pink toes as juveniles (slings) with lines down the legs, and developing red hairs with soft purple highlights as adults.
Avicularia sp. 'Braunshauseni' (Goliath Pink Toe Tarantula) This species is an arboreal tarantula known for striking coloration and an engaging demeanor. It is distinct from the terrestrial Theraphosa species, preferring elevated habitats.
Promotional Offers and Pricing
The source material lists specific pricing and promotional terms for these species. It is important to note that these are commercial sales rather than free samples in the traditional sense, though one offer includes a "free" specimen contingent on a purchase.
Theraphosa blondi Offers * Standard Retail Listing: A listing for a 3.5-inch female Theraphosa blondi is available at a regular price of $325.00 USD. * Juvenile Availability: A 1.5-inch juvenile specimen is listed as in stock and ready to ship.
Theraphosa apophysis Offer * Conditional "Free" Offer: A 2-2.5 inch Theraphosa apophysis is offered as "FREE AFTER $500 SPENT." This is a promotional bundle where the specimen is complimentary only if the total cart value reaches or exceeds $500.00 USD. * Availability: The listing notes that pickup is available at a Home Office location, with readiness in 2 to 4 days.
Shipping Policies * Live Arrival Guarantee: Retailers mentioned in the source data offer a Live Arrival Guarantee for the specimens. * Shipping Method: Live animals are shipped via FedEx Priority Overnight. Shipping is restricted to Monday through Wednesday to minimize transit time over weekends. * Inventory Status: Listings indicate current stock availability and upcoming inventory shipments.
Care Requirements and Habitat Considerations
While the prompt focuses on freebies and offers, the source material emphasizes that acquiring these specimens requires specific environmental setups. These requirements are critical for the health of the animal and represent a necessary investment for the consumer.
Theraphosa blondi Care * Moisture Dependency: This species is identified as the most moisture-dependent member of its genus. It requires a consistently moist medium with 80-90% relative humidity and ample air circulation. The soil surface should be allowed to dry periodically. * Enclosure Specifications: Large enclosures with ample floor space and cross-ventilation are required at maturity. The enclosure must not be tall enough for the spider to climb and fall, as fall injuries to the abdomen can be fatal. * Substrate: Juveniles readily burrow and benefit from a deep, organic substrate that is constantly moist (not wet). * Security: Because these are powerful spiders, any cage furnishings must be secured. Lids must be securely latched or weighted, as the spiders can climb glass and push open lids.
Avicularia sp. 'Braunshauseni' Care * Enclosure: A tall terrarium (10 to 20-gallon vertical enclosure) is preferable to mimic natural arboreal habitat. Good ventilation is essential for maintaining humidity levels. * Substrate: A blend of coconut fiber, peat moss, and vermiculite is ideal. The depth should be 3 to 4 inches, though this species typically prefers to stay elevated rather than burrow. * Humidity and Temperature: The ideal humidity level is between 70% and 80%, maintained by light misting with drying time between sessions. The temperature range should be 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). * Decor: Branches, cork bark, and plants are necessary to create a three-dimensional environment for climbing and exploring.
Handling and Health Monitoring
The source material provides guidance on handling and health monitoring, which is relevant to prospective owners.
Handling * Temperament: Avicularia sp. 'Braunshauseni' is generally not aggressive but can be skittish. * Technique: If handling is attempted, it should be done during off-feeding times using gentle, deliberate movements. The tarantula should be allowed to crawl onto the hand rather than being grabbed directly. Care must be taken to prevent falls.
Health Monitoring * Signs of Health: A healthy tarantula will have a rounded abdomen, clear exoskeleton, regular feeding habits, and regular webbing. * Signs of Stress: Refusal to eat, abnormal posture, or lethargy may indicate stress. * Molting: Tarantulas experience "premolt" stress. Humidity levels must be optimal leading up to a molt, and handling should be avoided during this time.
Comparison of Species
The source data highlights differences between the species discussed, which may influence a consumer's decision regarding which "Goliath" species to acquire.
| Feature | Theraphosa blondi (Birdeater) | Theraphosa apophysis (PinkToe Bird Eater) | Avicularia sp. 'Braunshauseni' (Pink Toe) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Habitat Type | Terrestrial (Burrower) | Terrestrial/Arboreal | Arboreal |
| Moisture Needs | High (80-90% humidity) | Not explicitly stated in source | Moderate (70-80% humidity) |
| Adult Size | 10-11" (female) | ~11" | Not specified in source |
| Coloration | Cinnamon brown, pink striations | Pink toes, red hairs, purple highlights | Striking coloration (specifics not detailed) |
| Temperament | Ambush predator (Wild) | Described as stunning | Docile but skittish |
Conclusion
The provided source material details specific commercial offers for large tarantula species, specifically Theraphosa blondi and Theraphosa apophysis. The only "free" offer identified is a Theraphosa apophysis specimen provided at no additional cost when a customer spends a minimum of $500. Standard retail pricing for Theraphosa blondi is $325.00. All offers are contingent on the purchase of live animals, which are shipped via FedEx Priority Overnight with a Live Arrival Guarantee. There is no information in the source data regarding free samples, trials, or mail-in programs for consumer goods outside of the exotic pet trade.