[4]: 249 [5] Like all Australian theraphosids, and old world tarantulas in general, S. plumipes are shy and reclusive by nature, and defensive if disturbed.

Like most Australian tarantulas, S. plumipes has the ability to make a hissing noise if agitated, known as stridulation.

In the wild, S. plumipes inhabit arid-zone grassland regions, and such are adapted to live in these harsh conditions.

[7] The venom of these spiders is not deadly to humans, but mechanical damage from the penetration of the large fangs can be caused, and local symptoms such as swelling and pain can be felt.

The keeping of tarantulas in captivity is a growing hobby in Australia, but with the country's strict import laws, only local species can be kept.

Prey items can include crickets, wood cockroaches, mealworms and, when fully grown, pinkie mice.