Juvenile Pelinobius muticus / king baboon

Pelinobius muticus, known as the King Baboon Tarantula, is one of the largest and most formidable tarantulas in the world, native to East Africa. Its deep rust-orange coloration, powerful build, and aggressive temperament make it a prized yet challenging species for advanced keepers.
🕷️ Key Features of Pelinobius muticus
Size: Females can reach up to 9 inches (23 cm) in leg span, making it one of the largest tarantulas globally.
Coloration: Typically rusty brown to orange, with a velvety texture and thick, muscular legs.
Disposition: Highly defensive and territorial. Known for its stridulation—a loud hissing sound produced by rubbing its chelicerae when threatened.
Venom: Potent and medically significant. Not suitable for handling.
Habitat: Fossorial (burrowing), found in dry scrublands and savannas of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
🌿 Care & Enclosure
Substrate: Deep (6–8 inches), slightly moist, and well-draining to support its extensive burrow system.
Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F); prefers warm, stable conditions.
Humidity: 50–70%; burrows help maintain internal humidity even in dry climates.
Enclosure Type: Terrestrial with ample space for digging. Avoid clutter and ensure secure lid—this species is strong and determined.
🧠 Behavior & Ecology
Lives in burrows up to 2 meters deep, which stay cool and humid even in extreme heat.
Rarely seen above ground unless disturbed or during feeding.
Females lay 30–180 eggs per sac, and spiderlings are slow-growing but long-lived.