The Orange Baboon Tarantula looks exactly the way you think it would… Well maybe not quite… Anyway.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the natural behavior and habitat of this incredible type of tarantula.
We will also provide keen insight into the basics of housing and feeding, handling tips, and the importance of general care.
Without further ado, let’s dive in and get to know Pterinochilus murinus together.
| Characteristics: | |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Orange Baboon Tarantula |
| Family Name | Theraphosidae |
| Scientific Name | Pterinochilus murinus |
| Use | Pets |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Lifespan | Males: Up to 4 years / Females: Up to 15 years |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Adult Size | 4-6 inches |
| Breeding Type | Egg Layer |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Minimum Tank Size | 10-15 gallons |
| pH | 6.5-7.0 |
| Hardness | Moderate |
| Temperature | 75-85°F |
What Are Orange Baboon Tarantulas?
Pterinochilus murinus belongs to the family of Theraphosidae and is commonly found in the coastal savannas of East Africa.
They are typically light brown or dark grey with black stripes running down their abdomen.
Their name is derived from their distinctive orange-colored legs and chelicerae (mouthparts).
Orange Baboon Tarantulas are relatively medium in size and can reach a leg span of several inches if fully grown.
They are a popular species for keeping as pets due to their docile and nonaggressive nature.
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What Do Orange Baboon Tarantulas Look Like?
Pterinochilus murinus is an impressive-looking species that is both colorful and robust.
These arachnids are generally a yellow-orange color on their carapace, chelicerae, and legs.
They also have thick hairs resembling lighter ‘fur’ all over their body. These spiders have eight legs, two large fangs, and two pedipalps.
They can assume a defensive posture when scared or provoked, with their ventral abdomen standing erect while their long posterior spinnerets point toward their prey.
These spiders also have eight eyes set on their frontal carapace which helps them to detect movement in their environment.
Male Orange Baboon Tarantulas have longer and thinner legs than females.
Females are also significantly bigger than males, often reaching up to 4 to 6 inches in length, while males are typically around 3 to 4 inches long.
Benefits Of Using Orange Baboon Tarantulas
Orange Baboon Tarantulas are a great choice for many types of vivariums, as they bring a unique and exciting level of diversity and beauty to the space.
Not only do they look amazing, but they also live a relatively long life of many years with proper care.
Additionally, they are relatively easy to care for and don’t require a lot of specialized attention.
With their relatively docile temperament, Pterinochilus murinus can be easily handled and also cohabit peacefully with other invertebrates.
Orange Baboon Tarantula Facts
Orange Baboon Tarantulas are active, diurnal arachnids native to Central and Southern Africa.
They feed primarily on insects and other small invertebrates, have a typically docile temperament, live upwards of several years in captivity, and can reproduce under proper conditions.
Habitat
In the wild, these tarantulas enjoy a savannah habitat and can be frequently found amongst dense vegetation, among rocky areas where they spin their webs in search of insects, and sometimes even in abandoned termite mounds.
Due to their bright coloring, these tarantulas can be quite hard to miss when they’re out in the wild.
Behaviourally, these tarantulas are quite active and agile.
They’re capable of climbing trees, running quickly across the ground, and can effortlessly jump from one leaf to another with their long legs.
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Diet
When in the wild, Orange Baboon Tarantulas typically feed on insects, small lizards, and other invertebrates.
These tarantulas are ambush predators, lying in wait for prey to wander upon them. In captivity, you’ll want to provide the same types of meals.
Temperament
Pterinochilus murinus are generally docile by nature making them an ideal pet species for those with a passion for spiders.
They can be skittish and defensive when threatened, but in general, they are not inclined to bite people.
However, they are often quick to react and can display aggressive behavior when they perceive a threat.
When threatened, an OBT may rear up on its hind legs, display its fangs, and potentially bite or strike.
It’s important to handle them with extreme caution, if at all, and to provide them with a secure and suitable enclosure to avoid unnecessary stress or aggression.
It’s also vital to be aware that Orange Baboon Tarantulas are not social creatures, meaning they do not live in colonies and prefer to live alone away from other animals.
In addition, they are notoriously curious so there is a risk of an escape.
As such, ensure that your tank is thoroughly sealed with a secure lid and that crevices and cracks are filled in.
Lifespan
Pterinochilus murinus has a typical tarantula lifespan of many years with proper care. Females usually live longer than males with an average of up to 15 years, while males live up to 4 years.
When young, they can grow relatively quickly, with molting usually happening every 4-8 weeks in the first 2 years.
By their 3rd year, the molting schedule slows to every 6-10 months as they reach full size.
The life cycle of an Orange Baboon Tarantula goes through several stages – spiderling, subadult, and adult.
As they age, the molts act as mini-renewals as the tarantula can shed its old exoskeleton and grow into a bigger and stronger specimen.
Breeding
Mating and reproduction amongst Orange Baboon Tarantulas is a fascinating process.
Once maturity is reached, males will create a sperm web which they will use to deposit sperm, and then the female will join them for mating.
After mating, the female will lay a clutch of one to three egg sacs which may contain hundreds of eggs.
The eggs usually hatch in two to four weeks, and the tiny, delicate spiderlings will remain under the mother’s care until they are independent enough to survive on their own.
Where To Find Orange Baboon Tarantulas
In the wild, Pterinochilus murinus can be found mainly in East Africa and a few other parts of the continent.
This species prefers dry, arid forests and grasslands, meaning they’re often difficult to find in the dense jungles of Central and West Africa.
Finding captive-bred Orange Baboon Tarantulas for sale is typically easier for most of us.
This species has become quite popular among tarantula keepers due to its hardy nature and striking coloration.
It’s recommended to buy from trusted breeders or pet stores, as wild-caught specimens can be difficult to care for and are often infected with parasites.
Furthermore, it’s also good to make sure the tarantula you’re purchasing is not an adult.
Buying a younger, sub-adult specimen will ensure you can see the tarantula reach its full potential as an adult.
Orange Baboon Tarantula Care
To provide optimal care for Pterinochilus murinus, it is vital to consider their natural habitat and behavior, the type of enclosure, temperature, furnishings, and decor needed.
Also have a good understanding of selecting the recommended prey items, how often to feed them, how to handle them safely, basic health and hygiene, and potential health issues to watch out for.
Tank Requirements
The ideal tank requirements for an Orange Baboon Tarantula depend on its natural habitat.
This species is native to African rainforest areas and prefers high humidity levels with a temperature ranging from 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
A terrarium of at least 10-15 gallons is recommended and the terrarium substrate should be composed of 3-4 inches of coco fiber and peat moss.
Enclosures with a waterproof seal and locking lid are best, along with good air circulation and a water dish for providing humidity.
The terrarium lighting should be dim as this species is nocturnal and the pH levels should be between 6.5 and 7.5 with a water hardness between 3 and 10 dKH.
What Do Orange Baboon Tarantulas Eat?
Feeding an Orange Baboon Tarantula is a relatively simple task.
They are primarily insectivores that feed and prefer a variety of live prey items such as cockroaches, locusts, crickets, earthworms, snails, and slugs.
It’s essential to feed the tarantula prey items that are no larger than the width of its body.
Ideally, you should feed them once every 1-2 weeks, as this will provide them with the required amount of sustenance.
It is also important to ensure that the prey you feed the tarantula is fresh and not rotten.
If you are not able to acquire live prey, you can also use dried and commercial diets; however, fresh prey is recommended.
Additionally, always ensure that any prey you feed your arachnid is properly gut-loaded with nutritious, known healthy foods and supplemented with vitamins and minerals.
By following these simple guidelines and ensuring the right nutrition for your pet tarantula, you can rest assured that Pterinochilus murinus will thrive in its captivity.
If you’re looking for a more detailed approach to feeding these arachnids, be sure to check out my ultimate DIY tarantula food guide. I give a more in-depth explanation of the best foods and my favorite recipe.
Best Tankmates For Orange Baboon Tarantulas
Pterinochilus murinus is usually best kept alone, but if the enclosure is large enough, some invertebrates can be kept with them successfully.
Suitable tankmates include species of hissing cockroaches, woodlice, snails, and large millipedes.
These tankmates can be beneficial to the Orange Baboon Tarantula as they act as potential food sources and provide companionship.
As well, they are beneficial in helping maintain the enclosure’s health and cleanliness.
Keep in mind not to overcrowd the enclosure as this can lead to stress for the tarantula.
Conclusion
We hope this Orange Baboon Tarantula care guide has given you a comprehensive overview of this amazing species, and the necessary information to keep them healthy and at their peak.
If you keep all the tips and guidelines provided in mind when setting up and caring for Pterinochilus murinus, you can be sure that your little friend will live a long and flourishing life.
Create the ideal habitat for your arachnids with our species-specific soil mixes and Spider Enclosure Kits. These products provide everything you need for a thriving spider habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the Orange Baboon Tarantula is not recommended for beginners due to its defensive behavior.
Orange Baboon Tarantulas (Pterinochilus murinus) are known to be defensive and can exhibit aggressive behavior when threatened.
On average, Orange Baboon Tarantulas (Pterinochilus murinus) can live up to 15 years depending on their sex.
Yes, Orange Baboon Tarantulas have potent venom that they use to subdue their prey. While their venom is not usually dangerous to humans, it can cause pain and discomfort if they bite.