Heteroscodra Maculata - Togo Starburst Baboon (Sling)

SIP Code: IL-OW-AR-S-020
Scientific Name: Heteroscodra maculata (Pocock, 1900)
Common Names: Togo Starburst Baboon Tarantula 

Shipping Monday - Wednesday 

Origin / Habitat

Native to Togo and Ghana. Found in humid lowland forests and forest-edge regions, living in tree hollows and under loose bark where it builds dense vertical silk retreats.

Category

Old World Arboreal

Adult Size

Females: 12–15 cm (4.7–5.9 in) leg span

Males: smaller, more slender

Temperament / Behavior

Highly defensive and extremely fast. Relies on speed and concealment; will strike if cornered. Venom is medically significant. Produces heavy vertical webbing and rarely leaves its retreat except to hunt.

Recommended Enclosure

Vertical arboreal enclosure (~12 in tall) with an upright cork bark hide.
Substrate 2–3 in deep, lightly moist for web anchoring.
Strong cross-ventilation and low ambient light preferred.

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature: 75–82 °F (24–28 °C)

Humidity: 70–80 % RH

Ventilation: High airflow to prevent mold or stagnation

Diet / Feeding Frequency

Slings: Micro crickets or fruit flies 2–3× per week

Juveniles: Small crickets or roach nymphs twice weekly

Adults: Medium crickets or roaches once weekly
Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours.

Growth Rate & Lifespan

Fast growing. Females mature in ~2 years and live 10–12 years; males 3–4 years post-maturity.

Handling / Caution

Handling not recommended. Use long tongs for maintenance; secure lid essential.

Invert-Labs – Summary

The Togo Starburst Baboon is a striking arboreal species recognized for its bone-white patterning and elaborate web structures. It prefers height, stability, and low disturbance. Fast and defensive, it rewards experienced keepers with fascinating behavior and a spectacular display web.

Care Snapshot

Difficulty: Advanced

Temperament: Defensive / Reclusive

Enclosure: Vertical Arboreal

Temperature: 75–82 °F

Humidity: 70–80 %

Growth / Lifespan: Fast | 10–12 yrs (female)

Beginner Guidance
Best attempted after mastering calmer New World species. Prioritize secure enclosure design and consistent environmental stability.