Pterinochilus lugardi (Fort hall baboon)

Pterinochilus lugardi (Fort Hall Baboon Tarantula)

Origin: Eastern and Southern Africa, including Tanzania, Kenya, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.

Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) leg span.

Lifespan: Females 12–15 years, males 3–4 years.

Lifestyle: Fossorial, constructing deep burrows but may also create silk retreats on the surface.

Appearance: Light brown to sandy coloration with a distinct pale starburst pattern on the carapace, giving it excellent camouflage.

Temperament: Fast and defensive but generally considered less aggressive than other baboon tarantulas. Handling not recommended.

Care & Habitat:

Enclosure: Fossorial setup with 6–8 inches of compact substrate and a starter burrow; provide rocks, cork, or bark for web attachment.

Substrate: Soil, sand/soil mix, or coconut fiber that holds burrows well.

Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C).

Humidity: 55–65%. Keep most of the enclosure dry, with a water dish available at all times.

Diet: Crickets, roaches, and other feeder insects weekly; juveniles more often.