Pterinochilus murinus DCF

Pterinochilus murinus DCF, affectionately dubbed the Orange Bitey Thing or OBT, hails from the drier regions of East Africa, particularly Tanzania, Kenya, and parts of Mozambique. Here, they inhabit scrublands and savannahs, adapting to both sandy and rocky soil with gusto. These resourceful tarantulas are often found tucked away in burrows under rocks, tree roots or fallen logs, making the most of whatever nooks and crannies nature provides. The climate in their native range is typically hot with marked dry and wet seasons, so they're perfectly equipped to handle both arid spells and spikes in humidity. Their adaptability is one of the reasons they've become such a legend in the hobby.

An adult P. murinus DCF typically reaches a diagonal leg span of 12–15 cm. Females are bulkier and often slightly larger than their male counterparts, who have a more slender build and longer legs. Juveniles grow into robust spiders with striking orange and black colouration—especially in the DCF 'Dark Colour Form' variant. It’s not the largest tarantula you’ll ever keep, but certainly one of the most visually impressive, especially when you see those oranges brighten with each moult. Males mature faster and are a bit less colourful, but both genders make a stunning addition to any collection.

In captivity, P. murinus DCF are the definition of creative home renovation. They are best described as semi-fossorial and terrestrial: they'll happily burrow and web up every inch of their enclosure if given the opportunity. Expect them to dig elaborate tunnels and plaster every surface in thick, bright orange silk—making a truly eye-catching display for those who appreciate an eight-legged interior designer. Unlike true burrowers who rarely emerge, OBTs will often sit just outside their hide, waiting to dart back if disturbed. Fast, alert and surprisingly cryptic when they want to be, they thrive where they can combine digging and webbing to their heart’s content.

Females of this species are in it for the long haul, often reaching 10 to 15 years with good care. Males, however, tend to live fast and die young, typically maturing by their third or fourth year and rarely surviving more than a year or so after reaching adulthood. If you’re after commitment, a female OBT is your best bet; males offer all the fiery antics but on a much shorter timeline. Whichever sex you end up with, you’re bound to be entertained—just be prepared for a rollercoaster either way.

P. murinus DCF are delightfully eager growers. Given regular feeding and the right temperatures, slings can grow surprisingly quickly, reaching juvenile size in a year or two. They tend to put on noticeable size after each moult, especially if you don't skimp on the crickets. As with all tarantulas, cooler temperatures and leaner feeding schedules will slow things down, but most hobbyists are surprised by how rapidly their 'OBT' goes from tiny orange speck to webbing whirlwind.

Notorious and beloved for their fiery temperament, OBTs really put the 'personality' in pet tarantula. They are defensive, quick to stand their ground, and famed for dramatic threat postures. While rarely aggressive without provocation, they won’t hesitate to show who’s boss if disturbed. They’re lightning fast and would rather bolt than fight, but don’t confuse evasiveness for timidity—this is not a lap spider! Observing their antics from behind glass is the best way to enjoy them, with far less risk to your fingers (or ego).

For P. murinus DCF, room temperatures between 21–26°C are ideal. They can tolerate the odd dip a bit below, as well as brief warmer spells due to their African heritage, but sudden extremes aren’t recommended. Supplementary heating in the form of a heat mat (attached to the side, never underneath) can be used during winter, but most UK homes will provide a suitable ambient temperature. Always monitor using a thermometer and avoid direct contact with heat sources—these spiders are tough but not invincible. Overnight drops are fine; in fact, they mimic natural conditions and can help trigger normal behaviour.

Aim for a relative humidity of 50–60%, which can be easily maintained with a water dish and periodic, light misting of a corner of the substrate—never drench it. The enclosure should be well-ventilated to prevent stagnant air, as OBTs are more tolerant of dryness than dampness (think crispy, not swampy). A simple water bowl is essential—a dried out water dish is a sure way to earn a withering glare (or, at least, more frantic webbing). Get the balance right and you'll see those vibrant web tunnels really take off.

OBTs are a fascinating blend of shy and show-off. When new or freshly rehoused, they might spend a week or two hidden in their web palace, only emerging at feeding time. Once settled, they often sit proudly at the entrance to their lair, legs akimbo, daring you to peek (or deliver food). Their webbing is a spectacle in itself, so even if the spider is out of sight, you’ll enjoy the daily changes to their silken fortress. Patience really pays off with this species—you’ll get more sightings as the spider settles and establishes its routine.

Webbing is where OBTs truly shine—think interior decorator gone wild. They’ll shroud the enclosure in thick, bright orange silk, building tunnels, chambers and elaborate tripwires. The webbing not only looks spectacular but also gives clues about the spider’s movements and moods. You might even see them race around, fortifying walls or constructing a new escape route. Watching their architectural adventures is half the fun, and for many, the main reason to keep this species. Give them anchor points and they’ll treat you to a daily show.

Feed P. murinus DCF a variety of live invertebrate prey—crickets, dubia roaches, locusts, and the occasional mealworm will do the trick. Slings can be fed twice a week with appropriately-sized prey, while juveniles and adults can be fed once a week or every ten days. Watch for the classic feeding response: a lightning-fast strike, followed by the prey being dragged into a silken tunnel for ‘dinner in private’. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and lethargy, especially for adults, so keep an eye on abdomen size and adapt feeding accordingly. Avoid leaving uneaten prey in the enclosure, especially with younger spiders post-moult, as it can lead to stress or injury. Moulted individuals will refuse food—give them a week or two before offering anything again. Basically: offer food, observe, adjust. Your OBT will do the rest (preferably at a speed that makes you question your reflexes).

Choose a secure, escape-proof enclosure that allows for at least 5–6 inches of substrate to accommodate burrowing and webbing. A plastic or glass terrarium with good cross-ventilation is perfect. Include a sturdy hide, though chances are your OBT will soon turn it into part of an elaborate silk bunker. Cork bark, rocks and artificial plants make great anchor points for their webbing extravaganza. Avoid excessive moisture—mist lightly and keep a water dish topped up. Enclosures should have a tight-fitting lid; OBTs are persistent explorers and can squeeze through the tiniest gap when the mood strikes! Maintenance is best carried out with a gentle touch and minimal disturbance to avoid triggering the OBT Olympics (sprint edition). It’s all part of the charm.

OBTs are best reserved for intermediate to advanced keepers. Their speed, defensiveness, and Houdini-like escapes can catch out the unwary, especially during enclosure maintenance. This isn’t a species for those looking for a laid-back introduction to tarantulas—if you want mellow, look elsewhere! For veteran hobbyists seeking 'character' and a display animal like no other, however, P. murinus DCF is just the ticket. If you’ve cut your teeth on less feisty species, you’ll appreciate the challenge and spectacle these beauties provide.

Pterinochilus murinus DCF isn’t just a tarantula—it’s a full-blown hobby legend. Their vibrant colour, dramatic webbing, and bold antics offer a unique challenge and spectacle for intermediate and advanced keepers. Maintenance can be a bit nerve-wracking, but stick to solid husbandry and a healthy respect for their temperament, and you’re rewarded with one of the most visually striking spiders in the trade. Not for the faint-hearted or first-timers, but an OBT is a rite of passage in many collections. Unique, opinionated, and always entertaining—what more could you ask for (apart from a little less sass, perhaps)?