Animal Crossing Tarantula Catching [Overview]
Animal Crossing New Horizons offers a wide array of activities, and one of the most thrilling is the hunt for the elusive tarantula. These eight-legged creatures can be a lucrative source of income and a challenging addition to your island’s critter collection. However, catching them requires patience, skill, and a strategic approach. This guide provides everything you need to know to become a tarantula catching expert in Animal Crossing, from understanding their behavior to implementing the most effective catching techniques. Get ready to fill your pockets and museum with these fascinating critters.
Tarantula Behavior and Habitat
Understanding tarantula behavior is crucial for successful catching. Tarantulas are nocturnal creatures in Animal Crossing, meaning they are most active during the nighttime hours. They typically spawn from 7 PM to 4 AM. These spiders are also quite skittish and will attack if they sense danger. They are found on the ground, so you will need to roam around your island, or even more lucrative, a mystery island, to find them. They can be found in grassy areas, plains, and sometimes near cliffs or water bodies. Observing their movements and anticipating their reactions is key to avoiding a bite.
When and Where to Find Tarantulas
Tarantulas are seasonal and spawn primarily in the Northern Hemisphere from November to April, and in the Southern Hemisphere from May to October. The chances of finding them are significantly increased on a Mystery Island, specifically the ones that generate with few resources. The best island is a flat island with the least amount of objects, so the spiders have a better chance of spawning. You can significantly increase your chances by clearing the island of trees, flowers, and rocks, which will force them to spawn more frequently. Keep in mind that these islands can vary.
Preparing for Your Tarantula Hunt
Before embarking on your tarantula hunt, preparation is key. This involves gathering the necessary items and creating a safe environment to maximize your chances of success. A well-prepared player is a successful player, so let’s make sure you are ready to catch these critters. This is going to take some time and dedication, but with some practice you will master it.
Gathering Essential Items
The most important item is, of course, a net. Ensure you have a sturdy net that can withstand multiple swings. Carry multiple nets to avoid running out during your hunt. Additionally, it’s wise to have space in your inventory and pockets to accommodate the tarantulas you catch. If you are planning on selling them, clear out some space in your pockets for other items. Having a vaulting pole or a ladder is also good, for island hopping. Lastly, consider bringing a shovel to dig holes for protection and to prevent the spiders from reaching you.
Creating a Safe Hunting Environment
On your island, clear out any clutter, such as flowers, trees, and rocks, that may impede your movement. This helps in spotting tarantulas and provides a clearer path for chasing them. On a Mystery Island, this is especially effective. If you want to maximize your profit and the amount of tarantulas you catch, completely alter the landscape to make it as easy as possible. Removing everything creates more space for tarantulas to spawn. Some players even create a ’tarantula island’ with multiple levels to trap tarantulas.
Catching Tarantulas [Step-by-Step Guide]
Now for the moment you’ve been waiting for: the actual catching. This process is not as simple as it may seem, but with the correct technique, you will have a much easier time. Tarantulas require a careful approach and precise timing. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to capture these creatures successfully. Here is your guide on how to properly hunt for tarantulas.
The Approach Technique
When you spot a tarantula, the first step is to approach it slowly. Hold your net, and don’t run. Keep the A button pressed down. This will keep your net up and ready. Move slowly and steadily towards the tarantula. If it raises its front legs, stop immediately. Wait for it to lower its legs before taking another step. Repeat this process until you are within catching distance. This calm approach is crucial to avoid scaring or angering the spider.
The Net Swing Technique
Once you are close enough, quickly swing your net by releasing the A button. Aim to catch the tarantula as quickly as possible. If you miss, the tarantula will likely attack. In the event of an attack, you’ll pass out and respawn in front of the island’s airport, but it doesn’t come at a cost. If you succeed, you’ll have a tarantula in your inventory. This process is about practicing and getting the timing down.
Dealing with Tarantula Attacks
If a tarantula attacks, don’t panic. There is a small window to react before you are bitten. As mentioned earlier, if you are bit, you’ll be sent back to the airport, and all your items will stay the same. To avoid the attacks, try to use the approach technique properly and maintain a safe distance. You can also dig holes in front of you, as a safe barrier. If you are on a Mystery Island, it can be very easy to get swarmed by tarantulas.
Tips for Success and Avoiding Mistakes
Even the most experienced Animal Crossing players make mistakes. Here are some additional tips to improve your success rate and prevent common issues, which can ruin your tarantula hunt. The more you play, the better you will get, so don’t get discouraged.
Maximizing Your Catch Rate
To maximize your catch rate, focus on Mystery Islands, especially the ones with few resources. Prepare the island by removing all obstacles. This will increase the spawn rate and make the process much more efficient. Practice the approach technique to avoid alarming the tarantulas. Be patient and methodical, and you will see your catch rate increase. The less time you spend preparing and the more time you spend swinging your net, the better.
Avoiding Common Traps and Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes is running towards the tarantulas, which triggers an immediate attack. Also, be careful of accidentally swinging your net too early or too late. Another mistake is underestimating the tarantulas’ speed and aggression. Lastly, don’t neglect your surroundings. Other bugs can spawn, so be mindful of the environment. By avoiding these traps and mistakes, you can significantly improve your tarantula hunting skills.
Making the Most of Your Tarantulas
Once you have successfully caught some tarantulas, you can put them to good use, for profit and other purposes. This is the fun part of catching them. This will help you make the most of your hard work and dedication.
Selling Tarantulas for Profit
Tarantulas sell for a good price in Animal Crossing. You can sell them at Nook’s Cranny for 8,000 Bells each, making them a profitable endeavor, especially on Mystery Islands. If you have Redd on your island, he sometimes buys critters at an increased price. Keep an eye out for his visits, to maximize your profit. This is a reliable way to quickly earn Bells, especially if you’re short on cash. The more tarantulas you catch, the more Bells you get. This is one of the most rewarding experiences in the game.
Using Tarantulas for Island Decor
Besides selling, you can also use tarantulas for island decor. Donate one to Blathers at the museum. They can be placed in your home as decorations. You can also use them to add a unique touch to your island’s design. Experiment with different placements and combinations to create an intriguing environment. They look cool, and show your accomplishments. These are some of the best ways to make the most of your tarantula hunt.
In conclusion, catching tarantulas in Animal Crossing New Horizons is a challenging but rewarding experience. By understanding their behavior, preparing your island, and mastering the approach and net swing techniques, you can become a tarantula-catching expert. Use the tips provided to maximize your catch rate and avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re looking to earn Bells, complete your critter collection, or simply enjoy a thrilling gameplay experience, the tarantula hunt is an exciting aspect of Animal Crossing. So, grab your net, and start your tarantula adventure today.