Rear-horned Baboon

Looks how to spot one

carapace and abdomen

This tarantula has a sturdy body covered in fine hairs. Its most striking feature is a black, backward-curved horn on the top of the carapace, which is unique among tarantulas. The legs are robust and the whole spider looks quite formidable.12

Personality what they are like

This tarantula is fast, defensive and quick to react. It does not have urticating hairs, so it relies on its speed and potent venom for protection. It will often stand its ground and show a threat pose if disturbed. It is not suitable for handling and is best kept by experienced keepers.25

Daily activity how busy a day looks

It is an obligate burrower and spends most of its time hidden in deep burrows, emerging mainly at night or during feeding. It does not need exercise but requires deep substrate to dig.21

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Very low maintenance. The enclosure should be kept dry with good ventilation. A water dish should be provided and overflowed occasionally to create a moisture gradient. No special grooming is needed.25

Home where they are happiest

A fossorial setup with at least 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) of dry substrate such as coconut fibre, vermiculite or peat moss for burrowing. Temperature should be 21-28°C (70-82°F) and humidity 50-70%. Good airflow is important. It cannot cope with too much moisture. This species is not recommended for beginners due to its defensive nature and potent venom.2154

Food basics what goes in the bowl

It readily takes crickets, roaches and superworms. Adults can be fed 2-3 medium crickets or a medium Dubia roach every 7-10 days. It tends to avoid very large prey. Uneaten food should be removed.215

Company who they like around

This tarantula is solitary and aggressive towards other tarantulas. It must be housed alone. It is not a pet for handling; it is best kept as a display animal for experienced keepers. Its venom can cause pain, swelling, muscle cramping, nausea and headaches, so caution is needed.25

The story where it all began

Ceratogyrus darlingi was first described by the British zoologist Reginald Innes Pocock in 1897. It has been regularly collected and exported for the pet trade and is the most common Ceratogyrus species kept in captivity. It is often still sold under its old name Ceratogyrus bechuanicus. Its distinctive horn and bold behaviour have made it a favourite among experienced tarantula keepers.136

Recognised by the official bits

World Spider Catalog

First described by Reginald Innes Pocock in 1897.6