What is "avicularia"

Avicularia \A*vic`u*la"ri*a\, n. pl. [NL. See Avicular.] (Zo["o]l.) See prehensile processes on the cells of some Bryozoa, often having the shape of a bird's bill.

Bryozoum \Bry`o*zo"um\, n. [NL. See Bryozoa.] (Zo["o]l.) An individual zooid of a bryozoan coralline, of which there may be two or more kinds in a single colony. The zo[oe]cia usually have a wreath of tentacles around the mouth, and a well developed stomach and intestinal canal; but these parts are lacking in the other zooids ( Avicularia, O[oe]cia, etc.). [1913 Webster] ||

n. (plural of avicularium English)

Avicularia is a genus of the family Theraphosidae containing various species of tarantulas. The genus is native to tropical South America. Each species in the genus has very distinguishable pink foot pads.

One of the most notable features of the Avicularia species is its odd method of defense. When threatened, their first choice is to jump or run away as quickly as possible - occasionally, though, they will launch a jet of excrement at the perceived threat. Adults are capable of good accuracy and a range of 0.5–1 m (2 or 3 feet).

There is also a belief that they may be the reason behind rumors of "flying spiders" in the rainforests they are native to, as they are quite adept at jumping. Their legs, however, prevent them from gaining much height in making a jump. Avicularia avicularia are among the tarantulas most commonly kept as pets.