Pterinochilus murinus, commonly known as the Orange Baboon Tarantula (OBT) or humorously as the "Orange Bitey Thing," is an Old World tarantula species native to central and southern Africa.
 
Quick Species Overview
Scientific Name: Pterinochilus murinus.
Common Names: Orange Baboon Tarantula (OBT), Mombasa Golden Starburst, Usambara Baboon, Pterror.
Type: Primarily terrestrial, but often exhibits semi-arboreal behavior by webbing up bushes or low trees.
Origin: Found across Angola, Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Experience Level: Recommended for advanced keepers due to extreme speed, defensiveness, and medically significant venom. 
 
Physical Characteristics
Size: Females reach a diagonal leg span of 4–6 inches (10–15 cm), while males are smaller, typically 3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm).
Coloration: Most famous for its brilliant orange color form, though color varies by locality. Known forms include:
RCF/OCF: Red/Orange Colour Form (the most common in the hobby).
TCF: Typical Colour Form (grey/tan).
DCF: Dark Colour Form.
BCF: Brown Colour Form.
Unique Features: Iridescent blue-green coloring on the underside of their feet, visible during a "threat posture". 
 
Behavior and Temperament
Defensive: Known for being highly defensive. It will readily enter a threat pose (rearing up) and is more willing to bite than retreat.
Speed: Extremely fast; hobbyists often describe them as "teleporting".
No Urticating Hairs: Unlike New World tarantulas, they lack irritating hairs and rely solely on speed and venom for defense.
Heavy Webbing: They are prolific webbers, often covering their entire enclosure in intricate silk tunnels. 
 
Captive Care (2026 Standards)
Enclosure: A horizontal enclosure that allows for both burrowing and web anchoring. For adults, an enclosure 3–5 times their leg span is ideal.
Substrate: Should be kept mostly dry. Provide 2–3 inches of substrate for burrowing.
Temperature: Ambient temperatures of 68°F–76°F (20°C–24°C).
Diet: Voracious eaters that accept crickets, roaches, and other common feeder insects.
Longevity: Females can live up to 14–15 years, whereas males generally live about 3–4 years.