Giant Baboon Spider

1 Overview

The Giant Baboon Spider is a native African species. Normally its color is rusty, and notably this species displays different coloration after each molt, so that every molt is different and highly anticipated. The color gradually shifts from black to deep reddish-brown.

First described in 1897, it is mainly distributed in West African countries and is locally known as the ‘yellowish-red spider.’ It is one of the larger species, and keeping it is surely fascinating.

Chinese Name: Rust-red Baboon / Cameroon Red Baboon

English Name: Giant Baboon Spider, Cameroon Red Baboon Spider

Scientific Name: Hysterocrates gigas

Subfamily: Theraphosidae

Origin: Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Guinea, Zaire

Habitat Type: Tropical rainforest

Lifestyle: Burrowing

Urticating Hairs: No

Suitability: Expert challenge

Female Lifespan: Around 16 years

Male Lifespan: 2.5-4 years

2 Behavior & Habitat

Because the Rust-red Baboon’s back changes color with each molt, many spider enthusiasts find it very intriguing, and the number of keepers has grown. So what kind of home environment should be prepared for it in captivity?

The Rust-red Baboon thrives at 28-30 degrees C with 80-90% humidity, so temperature and humidity must be well controlled. Its long burrowing life also gives it a long lifespan, with females reaching 16 years. The enclosure needs a fairly thick layer of substrate, as they like to dig tunnels and build their nest 10-15 cm below the surface. Alternatively, provide plenty of hides, mainly bark.

3 Care Guidelines

Females live longer than males. Although its molting is a novelty, it must be said that this spider is fairly aggressive, so extra care is needed when keeping it, and it is not recommended for beginners.

This species grows very fast, molting 6-8 times a year on average. It will attack any animal approaching its burrow and is quite pugnacious. Its venom is mild; a bite causes redness, swelling, and a burning sensation, and full recovery takes 5-15 days depending on the individual.

Normally the spider waits at the tunnel entrance for prey and strikes very quickly once food appears, capturing it. Keepers should also be careful to prevent escapes.

Because of its long burrowing life, the Rust-red Baboon has a long lifespan, with females reaching 16 years.