Cameroon Red Baboon Tarantula

Hysterocrates gigas Care Guide

Cameroon Red Baboon Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Hysterocrates gigas, commonly known as the Cameroon Red Baboon Tarantula, is a large, highly adaptable fossorial species native to the dense rainforests of Cameroon and surrounding regions in West Africa. Known for its bold temperament, extensive burrowing behavior, and ability to swim, this species is one of the most unique baboon tarantulas in the hobby.

Unlike many other fossorial species, H. gigas is capable of submerging itself underwater for extended periods and has even been observed capturing prey in shallow water. Due to its aggressive feeding response, strong defensive nature, and incredible speed, this species is best suited for experienced keepers who are comfortable handling Old World tarantulas.

While not as vibrantly colored as some other African tarantulas, its reddish-brown hues, massive size, and intriguing behaviors make it a rewarding display species for those who appreciate fossorial tarantulas.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Hysterocrates gigas

• Common Names: Cameroon Red Baboon Tarantula

• Type: Fossorial (Obligate Burrower)

• Category: Old World

• Native Range: Cameroon and surrounding regions in West Africa

• Size: Up to 8” (20 cm) DLS

• Growth Rate: Medium to Fast

• Life Expectancy: Females ~15–20 years; Males ~3–4 years

• Recommended Experience Level: Advanced

• Urticating Hairs: No

• Venom Potency: Strong (potentially medically significant)

Taxonomy, Etymology & Natural Environment

The genus Hysterocrates is composed of large, burrowing baboon tarantulas native to the tropical forests and savannas of Africa. The name Hysterocrates is derived from Greek, meaning "powerful ruler," a fitting name given the bold temperament and aggressive feeding habits of this species.

H. gigas is primarily found in humid, forested regions of Cameroon, where it constructs deep burrows in compacted soil. Unlike most fossorial species, this tarantula is often found near swamps, rivers, and flooded areas, where it takes advantage of its ability to submerge underwater when threatened. In captivity, some keepers have experimented with adding shallow water features to enclosures, but this is not a requirement for successful husbandry.

Unique Hunting & Aquatic Behavior

One of the most fascinating aspects of Hysterocrates gigas is its ability to hunt in water, an uncommon behavior among tarantulas. In the wild, this species has been observed capturing small fish and amphibians, using its speed and ambush tactics to strike prey from beneath the water’s surface. This adaptation allows H. gigas to thrive in swampy environments where other tarantulas might struggle.

Some keepers have successfully replicated this hunting behavior in captivity by introducing shallow water areas into their enclosures. Reports indicate that H. gigas will readily submerge itself when startled, and in some cases, even ambush live fish placed in the enclosure. While offering a water feature is not a necessary aspect of their care, it can provide a unique opportunity to observe their semi-aquatic tendencies in action.

However, it is important to ensure that any water feature is shallow and accessible to prevent drowning risks and to maintain proper ventilation to avoid excess humidity buildup.

Behavior & Temperament

H. gigas is highly defensive, fast-moving, and an aggressive eater. It will not hesitate to deliver a strong threat posture or bite if disturbed. Like other Old World tarantulas, it lacks urticating hairs and relies solely on its venom and speed for defense.

This species is an avid burrower and webber, often creating intricate tunnel systems underground. However, it will also take advantage of hides if given the opportunity. Keepers should expect a largely reclusive tarantula that will spend most of its time hidden except during nighttime hunting.

Housing & Substrate – Fossorial Setup

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Spiderlings

• Enclosure Size: OG Sling Crib, 3” Tarantula Cube, 4” Tarantula Cube

• Substrate: Fill at least 2/3 of the enclosure with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude.

• Humidity: Keep the substrate slightly damp but not swampy. Provide a tiny water dish if space allows or drip water onto webbing weekly.

Juveniles

• Enclosure Size: Crib 360-4” Fossorial, 5” Hex Crib, 6” Tarantula Cube, 8” Cube

• Substrate: Fill ½ to ¾ of the enclosure with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to support deep burrowing.

• Humidity: Let part of the substrate dry out while keeping one corner slightly damp by overflowing the water dish occasionally.

• Additional Features: Cork bark or dried leaves as web anchors.

Adults

• Enclosure Size: 8” Hex Crib, Crib 360-8” Fossorial, 12” Tarantula Cube, 18” Tarantula Cube

• Substrate: Fill at least ½–¾ of the enclosure with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude.

• Additional Features: A deep burrow setup is essential. I like to add some branches or plants so they can web up around their burrow entrance as well.

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Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: 70–78°F (21–26°C)

• Humidity: 50–60%

• Ventilation: Ensure good airflow to prevent stale conditions.

• Water Dish: Keep one filled and overflow occasionally to maintain a moisture gradient.

Feeding Schedule

Spiderlings

• Frequency:
  Feed twice a week.

• Prey:
  Offer small prey such as flightless fruit flies, confused flour beetles, or pre-killed tiny crickets/roach nymphs. Remove any uneaten prey after 24 hours. increase the size of the prey as the spider grows. Prekill any prey that is over 2/3 the size of the sling. For more detailed information on feeding spiderlings, watch this video: How To Feed Spiderlings & Scorplings (Baby Tarantulas & Scorpions)

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 24–48 hours after a molt before feeding. Ensure that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is not soft or shiny.

Juveniles

• Frequency:
  Feed every 7–10 days.

• Prey:
  Provide 2–3 small to medium crickets or a medium Dubia roach.

• Feeding Guidelines:

  • If the abdomen is thinner than the widest part of the carapace, feed more prey more often.

  • If the abdomen is wider than the carapace, feed less prey, less often.
    This strategy helps prevent obesity, which can lead to molting complications or increase the risk of an abdomen rupture from even a small fall.

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 3–7 days after a molt before feeding, ensuring that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened.

Adults

• Frequency:
  Feed every 2–3 weeks (or as needed).

• Prey:
  Offer 4–5 large crickets or one large Dubia roach.

• Feeding Guidelines:

  • If the abdomen is thinner than the carapace’s widest part, increase feeding frequency.

  • If the abdomen is wider than the carapace, reduce feeding frequency.
    This is crucial to avoid obesity, which can interfere with proper molting or cause dangerous issues such as an abdomen rupture.

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 5–10 days after a molt before feeding, ensuring that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened.

Breeding Hysterocrates gigas in Captivity

(general outline, specifics under revision)

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Males: Reach maturity in 2–4 years.

• Females: Reach reproductive maturity in 4–6 years.

• Pairing: Introduce the male into the female’s enclosure at night, ensuring multiple escape routes for him.

Mating Process

• Males initiate courtship with palp drumming and leg tapping.

• If receptive, the female will allow insertion before retreating.

• Males should be removed immediately after mating to prevent potential predation.

Egg Sac Production

• Females produce an egg sac 3–6 months post-mating.

• Egg sacs contain 100–300 eggs.

• Maintain 75-80°F (24-27°C) with high humidity (75-80%).

Raising Spiderlings

• First instar spiderlings emerge 6-8 weeks post-sac.

• Feed pinhead crickets or fruit flies every 3-4 days.

• Provide high humidity with proper airflow.

Challenges & Considerations

• H. gigas’s speed and defensiveness make pairing tricky.

• High humidity balance is critical to avoid dehydration or mold growth.

• Ethical breeding is crucial to reducing wild collection and sustaining this species in the hobby.

Final Thoughts

Hysterocrates gigas is one of the most fascinating fossorial tarantulas, combining large size, defensive behavior, and unique aquatic tendencies. While its care requirements are straightforward for experienced keepers, its aggressive temperament and potent venom make it unsuitable for beginners. This species is best observed in a deep-burrow setup, where its natural behaviors can be fully appreciated.

Due to ongoing habitat loss and collection pressures, supporting captive breeding efforts is essential to ensure the sustainability of this species in the hobby. If you’re looking for a bold, high-energy fossorial species, H. gigas is a fantastic addition to a well-maintained collection.

Additional Recommendations

For enclosures, consider Tarantula Cribs (TTC10 for 10% off), and use Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate. For legal captive-bred tarantulas, check out Spider Shoppe (TTC10 for 10% off).