DEVELOPING: Tarantulas on the Move: Mating Frenzy Sweeps Colorado

BREAKING NEWS Male tarantulas on the move across Colorado, sparking a mating frenzy. Colorado, September 11, 2025 - Reports are flooding in of male brown tarantulas trekking across the state, embarking on journeys to find female mates. The phenomenon is expected to continue through mid-October, with sightings reported in various regions, including La Junta and surrounding areas. These arachnid suitors face numerous challenges, including rejection, predators, and fatigue, as they leave their burrows in search of love. According to experts, male tarantulas typically reach sexual maturity and begin their mating quest around this time of year. Cara Shillington, a biology professor at Eastern Michigan University, notes that while the trek is extensive, it's not considered a migration since the tarantulas don't move from one location to another. Instead, they venture out to find potential mates in their vicinity. Chandler Peters, an entomology keeper at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, describes the male tarantulas' transformation: "They get this nice, reflective color on their exoskeleton, making them look quite attractive." As the mating frenzy continues, residents and wildlife enthusiasts are advised to exercise caution when encountering these eight-legged suitors. This is a developing story. We will provide updates as more information becomes available. *This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Npr.*