Pterinochilus murinus "DCF" (Mikumi)

Well started slings, 1/2"-3/4"

Ah yes. The infamous OBT.

Our very first spider order ever included an OBT to fill the role of “we need a psycho monster beast spider.” Did we get it for the wrong reasons? Probably. Did it live up to the hype? Not exactly.

Its reputation absolutely deserves respect and caution. That may be precisely why we never experienced the notorious defensive behavior everyone talks about. Will it bite if given a reason? Yes. Without hesitation. Is it a vicious, rabid beast by default? Not in our experience.

When provided with security, space, and options to do its own thing, this species has been far more predictable than its reputation suggests. The only time we saw extreme threat displays was during feeding, when a feeder wandered into its space while it wasn't ready to eat. In those moments, it would threat posture so hard it flipped onto its back and stayed there until we left the room. Clear communication. Point taken.

This particular OBT is not the classic bright orange form, which we also keep and love. This is the dark color form, DCF, known as Pterinochilus murinus “DCF” (Mikumi), named for the region where it is found in the wild. As fans of darker aesthetics, we can't help but stop and stare every time it's feeding day.

If you’ve been curious about OBTs but hesitant because of the reputation, we recommend digging into info from a range of reputable sources. The links below are ones we personally leaned on when keeping our first OBT and still reference today. They’re a great place to start. Learning from multiple keepers, paying attention to your own spider, and sticking to safe, respectful practices are what make it possible to keep even the most notorious, misunderstood animals responsibly and enjoy them for what they really are.

Please research care before ordering.

Juice's Arthropods | Pterinochilus murinus (Orange Baboon Tarantula) Pros, Cons, and Care Guide

The Tarantula Collective | Orange Baboon Tarantula (Pterinochilus murinus)

Care Sheet

Tom Moran (Tom's Big Spiders) | Husbandry Article (2014)