Keeper guide

Is Togo Starburst a Good Beginner Tarantula? — Heteroscodra maculata

Togo Starburst is not an easy first tarantula. Feeding is straightforward; the harder part is safe maintenance and rehousing around a spider described as extremely fast, reactive and defensive when exposed.

Enclosure and maintenance

Adults reach around 12–15 cm (5–6 in). Heteroscodra maculata is an arboreal species, so the enclosure should prioritise usable height, a vertical cork retreat, web anchors and safe access to the water dish.

With Heteroscodra maculata, plan routine maintenance so your hands do not need to share the spider's space. Keep a catch cup and long tools ready before opening the enclosure.

Growth, feeding and moulting

Growth is fast. Feed to the spider's size, appetite and abdomen rather than forcing a rigid weekly schedule; the routine will change as Heteroscodra maculata grows.

If Heteroscodra maculata refuses food and shows premoult signs, remove live prey, keep water available and leave it alone. There is no need to make a spider in normal premoult eat.

Lifespan and buying one

Togo Starburst females often live 10–15 years; males live around 2–3 years. An unsexed youngster can therefore become either a relatively short or a much longer commitment.

If sex matters when buying Togo Starburst, ask how it was confirmed. For enclosure planning, a measured leg span is more useful than hobby labels such as juvenile or sub-adult.