TL;DR
- Transform any mystery island into tarantula paradise by eliminating all competing bug spawn locations
- Time your farming between 7 PM – 4 AM during correct seasonal months for optimal results
- Master the net-scoop technique and strategic positioning to catch tarantulas without getting bitten
- Save tarantulas for Flick’s visits to earn 12,000 bells each instead of the standard 8,000
- Prioritize single-level islands and manage inventory space for maximum efficiency
Tarantula farming represents one of Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ most profitable activities, though it demands strategic preparation and precise execution. Unlike relying on random chance to discover the rare tarantula island, you can systematically transform virtually any deserted island into a spider-filled goldmine through calculated environmental manipulation.
The foundation of successful tarantula farming lies in comprehending the game’s sophisticated spawn algorithms. Insect appearances depend on multiple variables including seasonal timing, weather patterns, and terrain characteristics. For tarantulas specifically, you must meet strict criteria: nighttime hours from 7 PM through 4 AM, plus appropriate seasonal windows. Northern Hemisphere players can farm from November to April, while Southern Hemisphere enthusiasts operate between May and October. The core strategy involves deliberately engineering spawn probabilities by removing competing insect habitats.
Each tarantula nets 8,000 bells when sold normally, but savvy farmers wait for special visitor Flick who pays 50% more. This makes tarantula farming exceptionally lucrative compared to other money-making methods like the stalk market. Before beginning, ensure you’ve upgraded your inventory capacity and cleared unnecessary items to maximize haul potential.
Begin your tarantula farming expedition by acquiring a Nook Miles Ticket from Resident Services for 2,000 miles. Verify you possess sufficient miles before attempting purchase. Once equipped, proceed to Dodo Airlines and utilize your ticket to access a deserted island. Crucially, schedule your flights exclusively after 7 PM to align with tarantula activity periods.
While pure luck might occasionally grant you a pre-made tarantula island, statistically you’ll need to create your own. Prioritize single-level islands whenever possible, as multi-tiered landscapes significantly complicate the farming process. If your initial island features elevated terrain, consider using additional Nook Miles tickets to locate a flatter alternative.
The pivotal transformation phase requires thorough environmental clearance to eliminate alternative bug spawning opportunities. Methodically chop down every tree, extract all stumps, shatter each rock, harvest every flower blossom, and eliminate all weeds. To demolish rocks efficiently, consume fruit for temporary super-strength then strike them with your shovel—these sometimes conceal bell caches as well.
Flower management proves simpler than many anticipate: merely plucking blossoms (press A when facing flowers) sufficiently prevents insect appearances without requiring complete plant removal.
Relocate all gathered materials to beach areas to conserve precious inventory slots, since the raw components themselves don’t influence bug spawn mechanics.
Even after comprehensive environmental preparation, certain persistent insects like wharf roaches, mosquitoes, and crickets will require manual intervention. Either capture and immediately release these creatures or persistently chase them until they depart the area.
Mastering the tarantula capture technique requires precision timing and spatial awareness. Approach spiders cautiously with your net equipped, halting movement when they raise their front legs defensively. Advance only during their relaxation phases, repeating this stop-start pattern until within net range. The optimal method involves digging strategic holes to create protective barriers, allowing safe capture opportunities.
Professional tarantula hunters employ the ‘net-scoop’ maneuver: holding A to creep within range, then executing a swift capture motion. Never sprint near tarantulas, as this triggers immediate aggressive responses. Position yourself with escape routes readily available, particularly near water edges or cleared areas.
For maximum efficiency, establish a central clearing zone where you can quickly spot spawning tarantulas. Periodically circle the island perimeter to reset spawn locations and encourage tarantula appearances in your prepared area.
Strategic selling significantly impacts your tarantula farming profitability. While Nook’s Cranny offers 8,000 bells per tarantula, special character Flick purchases insects at 12,000 bells each—a 50% premium. Monitor your island announcements for Flick’s visits and stockpile tarantulas accordingly.
Timing considerations extend beyond daily sales. Northern Hemisphere players face imminent seasonal deadlines, as tarantulas disappear after April. Southern Hemisphere practitioners enjoy more flexible timing from May through October.
Advanced farmers utilize their home storage or create designated outdoor tarantula enclosures to hoard spiders between Flick’s appearances. This approach maximizes earnings but requires careful inventory management and regular play sessions to prevent accidental tarantula escapes.
For players struggling with storage space, consider the hybrid approach: maintain a core collection of 20-30 tarantulas for Flick while selling excess immediately to maintain cash flow.
Giant water bugs represent the most frequent complication in tarantula farming operations. These aquatic insects spawn in freshwater areas and directly compete with tarantula spawn rates. Immediately capture and release any giant water bugs you encounter to clear spawn slots for your target species.
Rainy weather introduces additional challenges by increasing mole cricket spawn rates. During precipitation, listen carefully for chirping sounds indicating underground crickets, then dig them up promptly to eliminate spawn competition.
Multi-level islands demand adapted strategies. Concentrate your clearing efforts on the largest, most accessible level first. Create safe zones using holes or terrain features to manage tarantula encounters on elevated areas.
If tarantulas refuse to spawn after thorough preparation, systematically re-check the island for missed flowers, overlooked weeds, or persistent insects. Sometimes, simply leaving the island and returning can reset spawn algorithms effectively.
Time-skipping via Switch settings can adjust seasonal compatibility but may trigger unintended consequences like weed overgrowth or villager dissatisfaction.
Action Checklist
- Verify current time is between 7 PM – 4 AM and check seasonal compatibility
- Purchase Nook Miles Ticket and fly to deserted island
- Clear all trees, rocks, flowers, and weeds completely
- Eliminate remaining insects (wharf roaches, mosquitoes, crickets)
- Establish safe hunting zones and master the net-scoop technique
- Capture tarantulas systematically, using holes for protection when needed
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