A Powerful African Burrower with Serious Presence

The King Baboon Sling is one of the most impressive Old World tarantulas you can own. Known for its bold orange colouration, immense strength, and deep burrowing behaviour, Pelinobius muticus commands respect.

This is not a display tarantula in the traditional sense — it is a true underground architect, building extensive tunnel systems and emerging with explosive speed when hunting.

Why You'll Want This Species

• Large, robust African baboon spider with a strong presence
• Rich orange to rust colouration that deepens with age
• Exceptional burrowing behaviour with complex tunnel systems
• Powerful, fast, and highly responsive feeder
• A must-have for serious collectors of Old World species

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Pelinobius muticus
• Common Name: King Baboon
• Origin: East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania)
• Adult Size: ±15–20 cm leg span
• Temperament: Highly defensive, very fast, reclusive
• Lifespan:
  • Females: ±20–25 years
  • Males: ±4–6 years

Appearance

• Deep orange, rust, or burnt-red colouration
• Thick, powerful legs adapted for digging
• Dense body structure with a rugged, earthy look

This species is less about contrast and more about raw, natural strength and presence.

Enclosure & Setup Guide (By Life Stage)

Sling

• Enclosure: Small burrowing vial or sling enclosure
• Substrate Depth: 5–8 cm (slightly moist, compacted)
• Set up: Starter burrow or angled cork bark
• Tip: Early access to a burrow is critical for reducing stress

Juvenile

• Enclosure: Small terrestrial enclosure with emphasis on depth
• Substrate Depth: 10–15 cm
• Setup: Deep substrate, minimal surface décor

Sub-Adult

• Enclosure: Medium enclosure with significant digging space
• Substrate Depth: 15–20 cm
• Setup: Cork bark starter hide, water dish

Adult

• Enclosure: Large terrestrial burrowing setup
• Substrate Depth: 20–30 cm (essential for natural behaviour)
• Set up Essentials:
  • Deep, compact substrate for tunnelling
  • Water dish
  • Low disturbance environment

Ideal Conditions:

• Temperature: 24–28°C
• Humidity: 60–70% (keep lower layers slightly moist)
• Lighting: Low light preferred
• Ventilation: Good airflow without drying the substrate completely

Feeding Guide

• Diet: Crickets, roaches, locusts

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 a powerful ambush predator, often striking with speed from within its burrow.

Behaviour & Handling

The King Baboon is well known for its defensive nature and strong reactions.

• Extremely fast and powerful
• Highly defensive when disturbed
• Produces a distinctive stridulation (hissing sound) as a warning
• Spends most of its time hidden underground
• Handling is not recommended

This is a species for keepers who understand and respect Old World behaviour patterns.

Important Considerations

• Venom: Potent (Old World) — medically significant
• Visibility: Very low ("pet hole" species)
• Experience Level: Advanced

Why Start With a Sling?

Starting with a sling allows you to:

• Observe the development of its extensive burrow system
• Grow into managing a large, powerful species
• Experience one of Africa's most iconic tarantulas from the beginning

Ready to Own a True Giant of the Tarantula World?

The King Baboon Sling is ideal for keepers who want a powerful, rare, and behaviourally fascinating species.

Secure yours while available — this is one of the most respected Old World tarantulas in the hobby.