How to Set Up Cross Ventilation (Arboreal Tarantulas)

Two opposing side vents at the spider’s living height give steady, fresh airflow without drying the enclosure.

You’ll need

  • Front-opening arboreal enclosure (acrylic/glass)
  • Drill + acrylic bit (or heated punch), deburring tool
  • Ruler, tape, marker; optional micromesh/vent grommets

Vent pattern

  • Hole size: 1–2 mm (slings) • 2–3 mm (subadult/adult)
  • Two horizontal bands each side in the mid-to-upper third
  • 20–25 mm between holes and between rows; mirror the pattern
  • Typical 8×8×12″: ~50–80 total holes split across both sides
  • Optional: keep modest top vent (hybrid cross + chimney)

Steps

  1. Measure & tape bands at the spider’s usual height.
  2. Drill/punch slowly; deburr.
  3. Mirror on the opposite wall.
  4. Rinse out dust; dry fully; furnish with cork tube + anchors.

Moisture tuning

Use cross-vent plus a small damp zone; avoid whole-box wetness.