Stromatopelma calceatum Tarantula

Stromatopelma calceatum Tarantula Care

Species: Stromatopelma calceatum
Common Name: Feather Leg Baboon, Cameroon Arboreal Baboon

The Feather Leg Baboon (Stromatopelma calceatum) is one of the most formidable Old World arboreals in the tarantula hobby. Native to the humid forests of Cameroon and West Africa, this species is famed for its stunning leg striping, ornate carapace pattern, and unmatched speed and defensiveness.

Though breathtakingly beautiful, this spider is best suited only for experienced or expert keepers. Its venom is potent, its speed lightning-fast, and its reactivity near-instant. However, given proper conditions, S. calceatum can be a long-lived, fascinating display species that showcases the raw intensity of Africa’s arboreal tarantulas.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Stromatopelma calceatum
  • Common Names: Feather Leg Baboon, Cameroon Arboreal Baboon
  • Origin: West Africa (Cameroon, Ghana, Togo)
  • Adult Size: 13–15 cm (5–6 inches) leg span
  • Lifespan: Females 12–15 years; Males 3–4 years
  • Temperament: Extremely defensive, lightning-fast
  • Experience Level: Expert

Housing & Enclosure

Stromatopelma calceatum is strictly arboreal, living high in hollow trees where it constructs complex web tunnels for shelter and ambush.

Recommended enclosure sizes:

  • Juveniles: 20 × 20 × 30 cm
  • Adults: 30 × 30 × 45 cm (12 × 12 × 18 inches)

Setup guidelines:

  • Use a vertical cork bark slab or hollow tube for climbing
  • Include foliage or artificial plants for additional cover
  • Provide ample ventilation and a secure locking lid
  • Avoid bright lighting and excessive vibration

This species is an intense webber — expect it to fill most of the enclosure with thick, white silk. The web serves as both shelter and sensory network, warning it of any intrusion.

Substrate & Decoration

Recommended substrate:

  • Coco coir, topsoil, or peat moss (5–8 cm depth)

Add:

  • Vertical cork bark for height and structure
  • Branches or vines for natural climbing paths
  • Moss and leaf litter to help retain humidity

Once established, the spider will claim a territory and build a web fortress, often sealing itself away between molts.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
  • Humidity: 70–80%

Mist lightly every few days to maintain moisture levels, allowing one side of the enclosure to dry between mistings. Provide a shallow water dish — even if webbed over, refill regularly.

Good airflow is critical; avoid stagnant, overly damp air.

Feeding & Water

Stromatopelma calceatum is an aggressive feeder that responds instantly to prey.

Feeding schedule:

  • Slings: Every 4–5 days
  • Juveniles: Every 7 days
  • Adults: Every 10–12 days

Feed crickets, roaches, or locusts of suitable size. Drop prey near the web entrance — the spider will detect vibrations immediately.

Always provide a water dish and maintain humidity stability.

Handling & Temperament

Handling this species is strictly discouraged.

S. calceatum is among the fastest, most defensive, and most venomous tarantulas commonly available. Bites have been reported to cause severe pain, muscle cramps, and prolonged symptoms.

Behavioral notes:

  • Lightning-fast reactions — can bolt unpredictably
  • Will defend its web rather than flee
  • Powerful threat posture when cornered

All enclosure maintenance should be done with long tweezers, catch cups, and calm precision. Always know where the spider is before opening the lid.

Molting

Molting typically takes place deep within the web tunnel.

Pre-molt signs:

  • Refusal to feed
  • Sealing the retreat
  • Dull coloration

Avoid disturbance during this time. After the molt, wait 10–14 days before feeding to allow the fangs to harden.

Common Health Issues

  • Insufficient ventilation: Mold and poor air quality
  • Overly dry conditions: Can lead to dehydration
  • Stress or disturbance: Triggers defensive reactions

Maintain a calm, stable environment for this species to thrive.

Breeding (Overview)

Breeding S. calceatum is possible but not recommended for beginners.

  • Introduce the male only when both spiders are well-fed
  • Pair under close supervision and with escape tools ready
  • The female may produce an egg sac 8–10 weeks later containing 100–150 spiderlings

Spiderlings grow quickly and are as defensive as adults from an early stage.

Quick Care Checklist

  • Type: Arboreal
  • Enclosure: Tall (30 × 30 × 45 cm)
  • Substrate: Coco coir/topsoil (5–8 cm)
  • Temperature: 24–28°C
  • Humidity: 70–80%
  • Feeding: Crickets or roaches every 7–12 days
  • Handling: Not advised — extremely defensive and fast

Final Thoughts

The Feather Leg Baboon (Stromatopelma calceatum) is the epitome of the Old World arboreal experience — elegant, fast, and ferocious. Its feather-like leg markings and cryptic coloration make it one of the most visually striking tarantulas available, but also one of the most unpredictable.

For the serious keeper who appreciates power, speed, and beauty wrapped in silk, S. calceatum stands as a testament to the raw, untamed side of the tarantula world — a spider that commands respect, patience, and awe in equal measure.

© The Tarantula Vault
All information provided is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
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