TARANTULA SPIDER EATING
Fried spider is regarded as a delicacy in some parts of Cambodia and is a popular tourist attraction in many market towns.
Tarantulas were first eaten in Cambodia because of the shortage of food during the Khymer Rouge reign in the late 70s. Apart from their nutritional value many local women believe that eating a tarantula increases their beauty.
According to connoisseurs it is best to fry the tarantula and the dip it in salt and garlic – the frying destroys the tarantula’s poison.
Those selling tarantulas are concerned that the destruction of the forests where the tarantulas live could drive them away – and deprive the sellers of their livelihood.