Togo Starburst Baboon Tarantula Care

Species: Heteroscodra maculata
Common Name: Togo Starburst Baboon, Ornamental Baboon Spider

The Togo Starburst Baboon (Heteroscodra maculata) is a stunning arboreal Old World tarantula from West Africa, famed for its complex patterning, incredible speed, and impressive defensive behavior. Its silvery-grey body, marked with white and brown starburst-like patches, provides exceptional camouflage against tree bark, making it both beautiful and cryptic.

Though undeniably one of the most striking arboreals in the hobby, H. maculata is also among the most defensive — best suited to experienced keepers who respect its speed, venom, and unpredictable nature.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Heteroscodra maculata
  • Common Name: Togo Starburst Baboon
  • Origin: Togo, Ghana, and surrounding West African regions
  • Adult Size: 12–13 cm (5 inches) leg span
  • Lifespan: Females 12–14 years; Males 3–4 years
  • Temperament: Extremely fast, defensive, secretive
  • Experience Level: Advanced

Housing & Enclosure

As an arboreal species, H. maculata needs a tall enclosure with multiple anchor points for webbing. This spider builds thick, funnel-like silk retreats high in the vertical space, often connecting cork bark and foliage into complex tunnels.

Recommended enclosure sizes:

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

Setup guidelines:

  • Vertical cork bark slab or tube for climbing and retreat
  • Artificial or live plants for cover and web anchoring
  • Adequate cross ventilation to prevent stagnant air
  • Secure top and side latches — this species is fast and strong

Once settled, H. maculata will cover most of the vertical space in thick, white silk tunnels and rarely leave its web unless hunting.

Substrate & Decoration

Recommended substrate:

  • A mix of coco coir and topsoil 5–8 cm deep

Add:

  • Vertical cork bark or curved tubes
  • Branches and leaves to mimic natural tree hollows
  • Moss or leaf litter to maintain moderate humidity

This spider prefers dim lighting and thrives when given multiple hiding options at different heights.

Temperature & Humidity

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

Mist one side of the enclosure lightly every few days, allowing one area to dry slightly to prevent mold. Provide a small water dish at the base — though it may get webbed over, ensure it’s always filled.

Feeding & Water

H. maculata is a powerful ambush predator, taking down prey with speed and precision.

Feeding schedule:

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

Feed gut-loaded crickets, roaches, or locusts of appropriate size. Drop prey near the web entrance and remove uneaten insects within 24 hours.

Always provide fresh water and stable humidity.

Handling & Temperament

Handling is strictly not recommended.

This species is one of the fastest and most defensive tarantulas in the hobby. It possesses potent Old World venom capable of causing severe localized pain and muscle cramping.

Behavioral notes:

  • Lightning-fast reactions
  • Will bolt or strike without warning
  • Prefers retreat, but defends its web fiercely

Maintenance should be done slowly and with full awareness of the spider’s position at all times. Use long tweezers, catch cups, and never reach into the enclosure directly.

Molting

Molts usually occur within the main web tunnel and often go unnoticed.

Pre-molt signs:

  • Refusal to feed
  • Sealed web retreat
  • Dull coloration

Leave the spider undisturbed until it reappears. After molting, wait 7–10 days before resuming feeding.

Common Health Issues

  • Overly dry conditions: Risk of dehydration and failed molts
  • Poor ventilation: Can cause mold buildup
  • Frequent disturbances: Triggers defensive displays and stress

Maintain balance: humid air with good airflow and a stable, quiet location.

Breeding (Overview)

Breeding H. maculata is possible but considered difficult due to the species’ aggression and reclusiveness.

  • Pair only mature, well-fed individuals
  • Introduce the male carefully and be ready to separate quickly
  • Egg sacs contain 100–200 spiderlings, produced about 8–10 weeks post-pairing

Spiderlings are hardy, grow quickly, and show webbing behavior early on.

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 — highly defensive and fast

Final Thoughts

The Togo Starburst Baboon (Heteroscodra maculata) is a masterpiece of natural design — cryptic, commanding, and mesmerizing to observe. Its silvery camouflage, combined with its intricate web structures, make it one of the most awe-inspiring yet challenging arboreals to keep.

For advanced keepers who respect its power and value its beauty from a distance, H. maculata is an unforgettable addition — a true jewel of the African canopy, both feared and admired in equal measure.

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