India’s forests and deserts aren’t just home to tigers and elephants - they also hide giant spiders that could give anyone goosebumps! 

While most spiders we see are small and harmless, a few Indian species are massive, with leg spans stretching up to 10 inches. These extraordinary creatures are not just huge; they play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance by controlling insect populations.

Among them, the Poecilotheria genus, found mainly in South India and Sri Lanka, is one of the most remarkable. Known for their vibrant colours, lightning-fast movements, and arboreal lifestyle, these tarantulas often dwell in tree hollows and rocky crevices.

Closely resembling the Goliath Birdeater - the world’s largest spider - these Indian tarantulas weigh over 80 grams and can strike fear just by their appearance. Despite their size, they are not deadly to humans but are a fascinating example of nature’s extremes.

From rainforests to rocky terrains, India’s wild landscapes are crawling with these majestic, eight-legged wonders of the animal kingdom!