Harpactira pulchripes (Golden Blue-Legged Baboon) 3" FEMALES

Upon first look of the Harpactira pulchripes (Golden Blue-Legged Baboon), many will exclaim a series of expletives. This Old World terrestrial species is one of a kind when it comes to the insane colors this species has. The abdomen and the carapace are 24 kt in all its shiny glory with dazzling oxford blue legs. If you are buying for looks alone, the Harpactira pulchripes may be your choice.  

Photo by Dylan Tinney, Eight Deadly Sins

Juvenile and adult pictured

Species: pulchripes
Genus: Harpactira
Subfamily: Harpactirinae
Identified: Pocock, 1901
Common Name: Golden Blue-Legged Baboon
Origin: South Africa
Lifestyle: Obligate Burrower
Max Size:  5-6”

Husbandry Recommendations

This is a terrestrial spider, so it will require an enclosure which offers more floor space than vertical space. The rule-of-thumb for the width or length or the enclosure is 3-4x leg span minimum. We recommend this spider be housed in the Spider Haus 3x4x5". This would be a suitable enclosure for several months up to a year. Our choice of substrate is a unique blend of coco and other organic materials - Hunter's Premium Substrate. This substrate will retain humidity, allow for sturdy burrows, and resist mold or fungal growth. Next, offering a cork bark flat creates a natural aesthetic and a safe retreat for your spider. Finalize the enclosure by adding Sphagnum Moss, Mixed Leaf Litter, or Magnolia Leaves. 

While this species is very hardy, and can tolerate many environmental conditions, we still recommend maintaining some level of moisture in the substrate. Soaking a corner once a week should be sufficient. You can alternate corners. The substrate should never be fully dried out. However, we also want to avoid sopping wet substrate or standing water. 

Common tools which would be helpful in caring for this spider include tweezers. These are used for feeding, cleaning, and rearranging the enclosure if needed. Another useful tool is a Mister. This allows for controlled and purposeful watering. 

Our suggestion for feeders is small crickets. At this size, this spider will eat a cricket up to 0.5", which is about 3-4 weeks old. Other small insect feeders also work - red runners, dubia roach, mealworms (smash the heads first).