What is Tarantula Island in Animal Crossing?
Tarantula Island, also known as the ‘Mystery Island’ or ‘Tarantula Isle’, is a special island that can appear in Animal Crossing New Horizons. It’s a hotspot for tarantulas, making it a lucrative destination for players looking to make Bells. This island is essentially a single-biome island where you’ll find a high concentration of tarantulas. The primary goal of visiting this island is to catch as many tarantulas as possible, which can then be sold for a significant profit at Nook’s Cranny or to Flick, who will offer a higher price. The environment is generally barren, devoid of trees and flowers (unless you’ve terraformed it). This is the perfect setting for catching those elusive creatures.
How to Get to Tarantula Island
Requirements for Tarantula Island
To reach Tarantula Island, you first need to unlock the ability to use Nook Miles Tickets. This is achieved early in the game by upgrading your Resident Services building and obtaining the Resident Representative status. Each Nook Miles Ticket costs 2,000 Nook Miles. Ensure you have at least one Nook Miles Ticket in your inventory. You’ll also need an open space in your inventory to carry your catch, and the right tools, such as a net.
Steps to Visit Tarantula Island
Head to the airport and speak with Orville. Choose the option to use a Nook Miles Ticket. He will then ask where you would like to go. Select the ticket. You will be taken to a random island. If you are lucky, this will be Tarantula Island. If not, you’ll need to repeat the process with another ticket until you find it. It may take several attempts to find this lucrative island. If you want to increase your chances, try visiting during the right time of day and the right time of the year (more details on this below).
What to Do on Tarantula Island
Once you arrive on Tarantula Island, your primary focus should be catching tarantulas. The island’s design offers a relatively open space, making it easy to spot the critters. However, the key is to approach them cautiously. Tarantulas are aggressive and will attack if you approach them too quickly. They will also hide. This makes your movements crucial for success.
Catching Tarantulas
The most effective method for catching tarantulas is to slowly approach them with your net equipped. Hold down the A button to ready your net, and when the tarantula stops moving, slowly approach it. When you are close enough, release the button to swing your net and catch the tarantula. Repeat this process until your inventory is full. Be patient and watch their movement patterns to avoid being bitten. Getting bitten will cause you to wake up back at your island, losing all progress.
Maximizing Your Inventory
To maximize your profit, it’s crucial to have as much space in your inventory as possible. Before you head to Tarantula Island, make sure you’ve emptied out your inventory of any unnecessary items. Sell any items you don’t need at Nook’s Cranny before you go. This will give you more slots for the tarantulas. Also, make sure to bring all tools you need, like a shovel to clear your way. You might consider crafting a few extra nets to be prepared for any wear and tear.
Making Bells on Tarantula Island
Tarantulas are one of the highest-selling items in Animal Crossing. By catching and selling them, you can quickly accumulate a large number of Bells. The price of each tarantula can vary depending on where you sell them and whether you have special visitors on your island.
Tarantula Selling Price
Tarantulas typically sell for 8,000 Bells each at Nook’s Cranny. However, if Flick, the bug-loving visitor, is on your island, he will buy tarantulas for 12,000 Bells each. It’s a good idea to save your tarantulas until Flick visits for maximum profit. Keep an eye on your island’s visitors and prioritize selling when Flick is present.
Tips for a Successful Trip
Visiting Tarantula Island requires preparation and strategy. Following these tips will increase your chances of success and help you maximize your Bell earnings.
Best Times to Visit
Tarantulas are most active during specific times of the day and year. Generally, they appear at night, between 7 PM and 4 AM. The availability of Tarantula Island can depend on the hemisphere you are in. In the Northern Hemisphere, tarantulas are most active from November to April. In the Southern Hemisphere, they are most active from May to October. Adjust your play schedule accordingly to maximize your chances of encountering tarantulas and visiting their island.
Avoiding Tarantula Bites
Tarantulas are aggressive and will attack if you run or move too quickly toward them. If a tarantula notices you, stop immediately. If you see a tarantula, approach slowly with your net equipped. If it raises its legs and stands up, stop and wait until it lowers its legs before advancing. If a tarantula bites you, you will pass out and wake up back on your island with no progress. Avoid running unless absolutely necessary. Use the terrain to your advantage, and clear the area of obstructions.
Other Island Encounters
While Tarantula Island is known for tarantulas, other insects can appear. You might encounter scorpions on the island. The same strategies used for catching tarantulas can be applied to scorpions, but be extra cautious. These islands offer a variety of bugs that add to the excitement.
Tarantula Island in Animal Crossing offers a unique opportunity to make Bells quickly. By following these tips and understanding the best practices, you can maximize your profits and make your visit a success. So, prepare your nets, gather your Nook Miles Tickets, and get ready to catch some tarantulas.