The Cameroon Red Tarantula, also known as the Cameroon Red Baboon, is a fast growing, aggressive, deep burrowing species that is native to the West African countries of Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea and Zaire. Pocock first described this species in 1897.

A very solitary tarantula, the Cameroon Red burrows very deep into the ground and can build elaborate networks of tunnels. While they are quite beautiful to look at, they do not make good display tarantulas. The Cameroon Red is a nocturnal animal and will come out of its burrows at night and when it is time to feed. They are normally very shy, but can become very aggressive if provoked. They are very fast and will strike repeatedly. Because their native home is the rainforests of Africa, they are best kept in high humidity. In their native habitat, they will attack and eat anything that moves. In captivity, they are usually fed on crickets, cockroaches, superworms and small mice.

The Cameroon Red Tarantula is large. Its maximum leg span is usually 6 to 6.5 inches. Its coloration varies depending on its molting cycle. They are mostly black after a fresh molt, but prior to a molt are reddish brown with some orange markings. They have thick rear legs, which likely make them more adept at burrowing. They dislike bright lights.

Because the Cameroon Red is a burrowing species, it is necessary that it have at least 7" of substrate to burrow into. Peat moss/potting soil mix is usually used. A large tank, at least 10 gallons, is necessary for mature members of the species. The tank should be kept at 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit with very high (at least 80-90%) humidity. A large water dish and daily misting will help keep the humidity high.

There is currently no special breeding information in our databases for this animal. To submit breeding / propagation information that is specific to this animal please click here.