A Rare South African Gem for Serious Keepers

The Brachionopus pretoriae Sling is a truly special addition to any tarantula collection — a locally native South African baboon spider that offers a unique, naturalistic keeping experience.

Unlike the more docile beginner species, this tarantula brings a more authentic, wild behaviour profile: fast, secretive, and fascinating to observe. If you're ready to level up your tarantula journey, this species delivers.

Why You'll Love This Species

• 🇿🇦 Local South African species – highly sought-after and unique
• 🕳️ Fascinating burrower – creates intricate underground homes
• ⚡ Fast & responsive – exciting for experienced keepers
• 🌱 Natural, earthy beauty – subtle tones that blend into its habitat
• 🧠 Behaviourally rich – a true "observe and learn" species

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Brachionopus pretoriae
• Common Name: Baboon Spider (Pretoria Baboon)
• Origin: South Africa (Gauteng & surrounding regions)
• Adult Size: ±10–12 cm leg span
• Temperament: Defensive, fast, reclusive
• Lifespan:
  • Females: ±12–15 years (estimated)
  • Males: ±3–5 years

Enclosure & Setup Guide (By Life Stage)

Sling

• Enclosure: Small terrestrial/burrowing vial or sling enclosure
• Substrate Depth: 5–8 cm (slightly compacted for burrowing)
• Setup: Pre-started burrow or angled cork bark
• Tip: This species feels safest underground — give it depth from day one

Juvenile

• Enclosure: Small terrestrial enclosure with deep substrate focus
• Substrate Depth: 8–12 cm
• Setup: Cork bark hide angled into substrate to encourage burrow

Sub-Adult

• Enclosure: Medium enclosure with ample digging space
• Substrate Depth: 12–15 cm
• Setup: Stable burrow structure + minimal disturbance

Adult

• Enclosure: Terrestrial burrowing setup (floor space + depth)
• Substrate Depth: 15–20 cm (critical for natural behaviour)
• Set up Essentials:
  • Cork bark or starter burrow
  • Water dish
  • Minimal décor (they prefer functional space over clutter)

Ideal Conditions:

• 🌡️ Temperature: 22–26°C
• 💧 Humidity: Moderate (50–65%) with a slightly moist lower layer
• 🌬️ Ventilation: Good airflow is essential

Feeding Guide

• Diet: Crickets, roaches, mealworms

Feeding Schedule:

• Slings: 2–3 times per week (small prey)
• Juveniles: Once per week
• Sub-adults: Every 7–10 days
• Adults: Every 10–14 days

These spiders are enthusiastic feeders but prefer to hunt from their burrow entrances.

Behaviour & Handling

This is not a beginner species — and that's exactly what makes it exciting.

• ⚡ Fast & defensive when threatened
• 🕳️ Spends most time in burrows
• 🕸️ May web lightly around the burrow entrance
• 🚫 Handling is not recommended

Best suited for keepers who enjoy observing natural behaviours rather than handling

Important Note

As a native South African baboon spider, always ensure you source responsibly and comply with any local regulations regarding ownership and trade.

Why Start With a Sling?

Raising a Brachionopus pretoriae from a sling allows you to:

• Witness its full burrowing behaviour develop
• Adapt your setup as it grows
• Build confidence handling faster, more defensive species

Ready to Add a True African Native to Your Collection?

The Brachionopus pretoriae Sling is perfect for keepers looking for something rare, wild, and deeply rewarding.

Limited availability — secure yours now and experience a true South African species firsthand.

Photo credit: Wessel Pretorius via Wikimedia Commons