Animal Crossing Tarantulas & Giant Water Bugs Overview
Animal Crossing: New Horizons offers a vast array of creatures to collect, and among the most sought-after are the tarantula and the giant water bug. These insects, while not the most pleasant to look at, are valuable additions to your Critterpedia and can fetch a pretty penny. Mastering the art of catching these bugs is a rewarding experience, both in terms of gameplay and the monetary gains. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these creatures, from their habitats and behaviors to the best strategies for capturing them.
What are Tarantulas?
Tarantulas are large, fearsome-looking spiders that appear on your island during specific times of the year. They are nocturnal creatures, meaning they’re most active during the night. In the game, they are known for their aggressive behavior; if you approach them carelessly, they will attack, resulting in you fainting and waking up back at your house. However, with the right approach, tarantulas can be easily captured and sold for a good profit. They add a thrilling element to the game, turning nighttime explorations into exciting hunts.
Where to Find Tarantulas
Tarantulas typically spawn on your island at night, usually from 7 PM to 4 AM. However, their spawn rate can be influenced by several factors. They are more common on mystery islands, especially those that have been terraformed to remove all natural features except for trees and flowers. Removing all trees and flowers allows for a higher spawn rate of tarantulas. Be prepared for a tense hunt; their stealth and aggression make them a challenging catch, but the reward is well worth the effort.
How to Catch Tarantulas
Catching tarantulas requires a delicate balance of patience and precision. The key is to move slowly and deliberately. Approach the tarantula with your net ready, holding down the ‘A’ button to keep it raised. If the tarantula raises its front legs, stop moving immediately. Wait for it to lower its legs before taking another step. Continue this process until you are close enough to swing your net. Timing is everything; a well-timed swing is the only way to get a tarantula. Failing to do so, and you’ll find yourself waking up at home. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged by initial failures. Remember, persistence is key.
Tarantula Selling Price
Tarantulas are among the most valuable bugs in Animal Crossing. They can be sold to Nook’s Cranny for 8,000 Bells each. This makes them a lucrative source of income, especially if you are able to find them consistently. If Flick is visiting your island, you can sell them for 12,000 Bells each, making them even more valuable. This financial benefit makes tarantula hunting a compelling activity for any player looking to improve their island and build up their Bell reserves. Consider using your profits to upgrade your house, buy new furniture, or contribute to island projects.
What are Giant Water Bugs?
Giant water bugs are another fascinating insect found in Animal Crossing, known for their size and their presence in ponds and lakes. They are less aggressive than tarantulas but can still be a challenge to catch. Like tarantulas, they contribute to the diversity of the game’s wildlife, providing an engaging experience for players. Their unique appearance and the locations in which they can be found make them a fun addition to any player’s collection. Giant water bugs also have their own value in the game, making it worthwhile to capture them.
Where to Find Giant Water Bugs
Giant water bugs are most commonly found in ponds, lakes, and rivers, often appearing in the early morning or late evening. Unlike tarantulas, they do not have a specific time they spawn. They may appear in the water at any time. Be observant and check all bodies of water on your island regularly. They can also be found on mystery islands, making island hopping a great strategy for finding these bugs. Pay close attention to the water’s surface, as they are often lurking just beneath the water.
How to Catch Giant Water Bugs
Catching giant water bugs is a bit different from catching tarantulas. You don’t have to sneak up on them, but it still requires some skill. Approach the water slowly with your net ready. As you get close, swing your net to catch them. They are relatively slow, so it’s usually easy to catch them, as long as you have good timing. If they spot you, they will attempt to flee. A quick and accurate swing is the key. Always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for other bugs or fish while you are hunting.
Giant Water Bug Selling Price
Giant water bugs sell for 2,000 Bells at Nook’s Cranny. While not as valuable as tarantulas, they still offer a decent profit. If Flick is on your island, you can sell them for 3,000 Bells each. This is a considerable return, particularly if you can catch several in a single session. Selling giant water bugs is a good way to earn extra Bells while also contributing to your collection and enjoying the overall gameplay. Therefore, this makes them a valuable catch.
Top 5 Animal Crossing Tips for Tarantulas & Water Bugs
Tip 1 Understanding Spawn Times
Knowing the spawn times of tarantulas is crucial for maximizing your hunting sessions. They appear at night, from 7 PM to 4 AM, making it the perfect time to search for them. Giant water bugs do not have specific times, so try checking the waters in the early mornings or late evenings. Set aside time specifically for bug hunting, and make sure to check your island and any mystery islands you visit during these times. Plan your gameplay around these timings to increase your chances of finding these elusive creatures.
Tip 2 Island Hopping for Success
Visiting mystery islands is an effective method for finding both tarantulas and giant water bugs. Use Nook Miles Tickets to travel to different islands. Some islands are specifically designed to spawn a high number of tarantulas if you clear the land and make it more suitable for their spawn. Always bring enough tools, especially nets, because these bugs are not easy to catch. This strategy can greatly increase the number of bugs you find. Keep an eye out for the right island types to make your expeditions more fruitful.
Tip 3 Preparation is Key
Before you embark on your bug-catching adventure, make sure you are well-prepared. Bring multiple nets, as they will break over time. Clear space in your inventory so you have room to store the bugs you catch. Consider wearing the right kind of clothes, as this can help in avoiding the tarantulas. Being prepared will ensure that your bug hunting is efficient and successful. This helps you spend more time catching bugs and less time running back and forth to buy or craft more supplies.
Tip 4 The Perfect Stalking Technique
When hunting tarantulas, use the stalking technique. Hold down the ‘A’ button to keep your net raised, and slowly approach the tarantula. Stop moving whenever the tarantula raises its front legs, and wait for it to lower them before taking another step. This technique will help you get close enough to swing your net without being attacked. This tactic requires patience, but it is the most effective strategy for catching tarantulas. This also means you won’t have to waste time returning to your house to recover.
Tip 5 Maximizing Your Profits
To maximize your profits, wait for Flick to visit your island. He pays 1.5x the normal selling price for bugs. Selling tarantulas and giant water bugs to him will significantly increase your earnings. Keep an eye on the announcements to know when he’s visiting. Even without Flick, the base selling prices make these bugs a valuable source of income. The more bugs you collect, the faster you can build up your Bell reserves, enabling you to upgrade your island and enjoy the game even more.
Additional Tips
Bug-Off Events
Participating in the Bug-Off events, hosted by Flick, can be a fun way to earn extra rewards. These events give you the chance to compete against other players to catch the most bugs within a set time limit. You’ll earn points for each bug you catch and can earn exclusive items. These events provide an enjoyable way to test your bug-catching skills. This can offer you some unique rewards and add an extra element of competition to the game.
DIY Recipes
Keep an eye out for DIY recipes that involve bugs. These recipes may require you to catch tarantulas or giant water bugs. Crafting these items not only expands your collection but also offers a creative and rewarding experience. Even if you are not interested in making Bells, these items add to the aesthetic appeal of your island. These DIY projects often feature unique and eye-catching designs, allowing you to further customize your island. This is a fun way to enjoy the gameplay.
Displaying Bugs
Consider displaying your caught bugs in your home or around your island. You can place them in terrariums or display cases to showcase your collection. Displaying your bugs lets you show off your achievements and adds personality to your island. This makes the game more enjoyable and rewarding. Moreover, this can enhance your overall gameplay experience and create a more personalized touch. This gives you a chance to show off your hard work and dedication.