I think my tarantula died while molting....

[spiderstuff19]

I have a Chilean flame approx. 1 1/2 yrs old that I acquired in January. I noticed on 3/11 that my T had flipped on its back into typical molting phase but it is now 3/13 and it has not even budged. I know not to disturb them. Is something wrong, any advice etc.... This is my first T. Thanks.

 

[Formerphobe]

Unfortunately, after two days, it has probably left this plane of existence. It really sucks, but some just do not survive the molt process for whatever reason(s). I lost a male B. vagans a couple of years ago in his maturing molt. Don't let this discourage you from getting another tarantula. Most do survive.
For future reference:
-increasing humidity, such as taking the enclosure into the bathroom while you take a hot shower, may or may not help. Scientifically, it shouldn't help due to the spider's sealed exoskeleton, but at least you're doing something proactive.
-if the spider has already popped its carapace and appears to be in trouble, sometimes you can help extract it with cuticle scissors, tiny tweezers, q-tips, glycerin. Be careful not to get glycerin in the booklungs. >>Be sure the T is in actual need of assistance before jumping in to help.<< Some Ts will take up to 24 hours to complete a molt. They may lay on their back for what seems like forever. Once the carapace pops, things usually move along more quickly.
-sometimes, regardless what you do, the T just isn't going to make it. And it may be absolutely nothing that you did or didn't do to cause it.

 

[CreepyCrawlies]

I'm sorry to hear that OP But Phobe is probably right.

 

[spiderstuff19]

Thanks for the advice/feedback. I'm pretty convinced it was dead the first time I saw it. I never even saw it struggling or having trouble. Oh well, I will for sure get another. Love tarantulas too much.

 

[lunatone]

The same thing happened with my A avic last year. It was a major bummer and I was admittedly torn up about it and felt like it was my fault. In my case, I'm fairly positive it was a humidity issue. Sorry to hear about your T, it's never easy to lose these little guys.

 

[Jterry]

Hey spiderstuff19, what part of Oregon are you in?

 

[SuzukiSwift]

I'm sorry to hear that OP =( It sucks losing a T, especially if it's your first one, glad you're not quitting the hobby though!