Idiothele mira

Scientific Name: Idiothele mira
Common Name: Blue Footed Baboon
Lifestyle: Fossorial
Endemic Location: South Africa
Adult Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): Upto 4″
Growth Rate: Medium to Fast
Life Expectancy: Females 12 to 15 years / Males 3 to 4 years
Recommended Experience Level: Advanced

Idiothele mira belongs to the Harpactirinae subfamily of African baboon tarantulas, known for their defensive nature and intricate burrowing behaviors. The genus name Idiothele is derived from Greek, meaning “peculiar nipple,” referring to unique structures found on the spinnerets of this genus. The species name mira translates to “wonderful” or “astonishing,” a fitting description for this distinctive tarantula.

Native to South Africa, I. mira inhabits dry savanna and scrubland regions, where it constructs deep burrows reinforced with trapdoors made of silk, soil, and plant material. These burrows serve as both a defensive structure and an ambush site for prey. This natural behavior is rarely observed in other tarantula species, making it a fascinating addition to a well-maintained collection.

I. mira is highly defensive, fast-moving, and reclusive. While it is not as aggressive as some African baboon species, it will bite readily if provoked. Like all Old World tarantulas, I. mira lacks urticating hairs and relies on its speed and potent venom as its primary defense mechanisms.

This species is an expert burrower, spending the majority of its time inside its silken trapdoor burrow. Keepers should expect to see little of this species outside of feeding time, making it more of a display tarantula for those who enjoy natural behaviors rather than frequent interactions.