It ranges predominantly in Mexico (including the Yucatán Peninsula), but is also found in Central America.

They can grow up to a solid 6.5 inch leg span, with males typically being smaller and thinner than the females.

It is now considered an established non-native species in that state, where it is thought to have been introduced through either accidental or intentional releases of specimens imported via the pet trade, although their numbers have been dwindling due to many T. vagans eating insects poisoned by pesticides.

This trade, combined with habitat destruction and a high rate of mortality prior to sexual maturity, means that T. vagans is considered vulnerable to extinction.

A hierbatero kills it, then crushes it, mixes it with spirit alcohol and strains out any irritating hairs with a traditional cloth.