Ornithoctoninae sp. "Long Na" — Long Na Earth Tiger (Sling)

A Rare Southeast Asian Earth Tiger with Incredible Collector Appeal

The Long Na Earth Tiger Sling is a highly desirable Old World tarantula that has earned a strong following among collectors for its rarity, impressive growth potential, and fascinating natural behaviour. Although still awaiting formal scientific classification, this species is already recognised as one of the standout Earth Tigers originating from Southeast Asia.

Like many members of the Ornithoctoninae group, the Long Na Earth Tiger is a powerful burrower that creates extensive underground tunnel systems. Combined with its fast growth, strong feeding response, and attractive dark colouration, it offers everything experienced keepers appreciate in a premium Old World species.

For hobbyists looking to add a rare and exciting tarantula to their collection, the Long Na Earth Tiger is a fantastic choice.

Why You'll Want This Species

• Rare and highly sought-after collector's species

• Fascinating burrowing and web-building behaviour

• Fast-growing compared to many tarantulas

• Strong feeding response

• Impressive adult size

• A rewarding species for experienced keepers

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Ornithoctoninae sp. "Long Na"

• Common Name: Long Na Earth Tiger

• Origin: Thailand

• Adult Size: Approximately 14–18 cm leg span

• Temperament: Defensive, fast, and highly alert

• Lifespan:

  • Females: 12–15 years

  • Males: 3–4 years

Appearance

The Long Na Earth Tiger possesses the understated beauty that Earth Tiger enthusiasts love:

• Dark brown to charcoal-black body colouration

• Subtle bronze, steel-grey, or earthy highlights under light

• Velvety appearance across the legs and carapace

• Strong, powerful build designed for digging and ambush hunting

While not as brightly coloured as some species, it has a robust appearance and natural elegance that make it highly desirable among collectors.

Enclosure & Setup Guide (By Life Stage)

Sling

• Enclosure: Small burrowing sling enclosure

• Substrate Depth: 5–8 cm

• Setup: Starter burrow and cork bark hide

• Tip: Deep substrate from an early age encourages natural behaviour

Juvenile

• Enclosure: Small terrestrial enclosure

• Substrate Depth: 10–12 cm

• Setup: Cork bark retreat, water dish, and deep substrate

Sub-Adult

• Enclosure: Medium terrestrial enclosure

• Substrate Depth: 12–18 cm

• Setup: Deep substrate, web anchor points, and minimal disturbance

Adult

• Enclosure: Terrestrial burrowing setup with ample floor space

• Substrate Depth: 15–20 cm

• Setup Essentials:

  • Deep substrate for tunnelling

  • Cork bark hide or starter burrow

  • Water dish

  • Secure enclosure with good ventilation

Ideal Conditions:

• Temperature: 24–28°C

• Humidity: 70–80%

• Lighting: Low light preferred

• Ventilation: Good airflow while maintaining moisture in the lower substrate layers

Feeding Guide

Diet:
Crickets, roaches, locusts, mealworms, and other appropriately sized feeder insects.

Feeding Schedule:

• Slings: 2–3 times per week

• Juveniles: Once per week

• Sub-adults: Every 7–10 days

• Adults: Every 10–14 days

This species is an enthusiastic predator and is known for its quick, decisive feeding strikes.

Behaviour & Handling

• Extremely fast and highly reactive

• Constructs extensive burrow systems

• Frequently, webs around tunnel entrances

• Defensive when disturbed

• Handling is not recommended

Like most Earth Tigers, this species is best appreciated by observing its natural behaviour rather than by interacting with it directly.

Important Considerations

• Venom: Potent (Old World species) — medically significant

• Visibility: Low to moderate

• Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced

• Speed: Extremely fast

This species is best suited to keepers who have experience with defensive Old World tarantulas and secure enclosure maintenance procedures.

Why Start With a Sling?

Starting with a sling allows you to:

• Observe its impressive burrowing behaviour from the beginning

• Watch its colours and patterns develop through successive moults

• Gain experience with a rare and desirable Earth Tiger species

• Raise a remarkable adult specimen from its earliest stage

Ready to Add a Rare Earth Tiger to Your Collection?

The Long Na Earth Tiger Sling is perfect for collectors who appreciate rarity, powerful behaviour, and the challenge of keeping one of Southeast Asia's most fascinating tarantulas.

Secure yours today and experience the rewarding journey of raising this impressive Earth Tiger from sling to adulthood.