Deadly 60 Season 1 Episode 15 Tarantula Army
- August 29, 2011
- 27 min
In Deadly 60 season 1 episode 15, entitled "Tarantula Army," presenter Steve Backshall travels to the rainforest of Guyana in search of tarantulas.
With their size, multiple legs, and venomous fangs, tarantulas are often feared by humans, but Backshall explains that they are not as dangerous as people may think. He points out that, of the hundreds of species of tarantulas, only a few have venom that is harmful to humans, and even those are unlikely to be fatal.
As Backshall and his team venture deeper into the jungle, they encounter various species of tarantulas, including the Goliath Birdeater, the largest spider in the world. He explains how these spiders are able to take down prey much larger than themselves using their powerful jaws and venom.
Backshall also introduces viewers to the concept of tarantula behavioral mimicry, where certain spiders exhibit behaviors that mimic ants, allowing them to avoid predators. He shows how certain tarantula species are able to move like ants, and even emit pheromones that trick predators into thinking they are harmless.
The episode takes a surprising turn when Backshall encounters an army of tarantulas marching in a line. He explains that this behavior is only seen in a few species of tarantulas, and is believed to be a way of migrating while avoiding predators.
Throughout the episode, Backshall emphasizes the importance of respecting these creatures and their habitat, while also dispelling common myths and misconceptions about them. He urges viewers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world, even in the most unlikely of creatures like tarantulas.
Overall, "Tarantula Army" is an engaging and informative episode of Deadly 60 that provides a fascinating look at one of the world's most misunderstood creatures. Backshall's passion for wildlife and exploration is contagious, and viewers of all ages are sure to be captivated by his adventures in the rainforest.