Bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater (Pamphobeteus antinous)
Photo: John / CC BY 2.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Arachnid · Terrestrial tarantula

Bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater care guide

Pamphobeteus antinous

Advanced

The bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater is a advanced-level terrestrial tarantula from Bolivia, Peru. Adults reach Leg span 20–23 cm and live Females 15–25 years, males 3–5 years in captivity. Needs moisture and a large hide; mature males are known for their huge size and colour.

  • Enclosure 45 × 30 × 30 cm
  • Temp 22–27°C
  • Humidity 65–75%

How much does a bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater cost in Canada?

Animal$80–250Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$110–180Enclosure $40–80 · equipment $20–40 · bioactive supplies ≈ $60
Yearly upkeep$60–120Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$250–550All prices CAD, estimates

Bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater quick facts

Skill level
Advanced
Adult size
Leg span 20–23 cm
Lifespan
Females 15–25 years, males 3–5 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
Bolivia, Peru
Minimum enclosure
45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
22–27°C
Humidity
65–75%
UVB
Not needed
Diet
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
Bioactive style
Terrestrial tarantula

Bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a terrestrial tarantula bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Tarantula Mix12 cm

Keep the gap between the soil surface and the lid no more than about twice the spider’s leg span, to prevent falls.

Temperature: 22–27°C. Humidity: 65–75%. UVB: Not needed.

What does a bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–4 large roaches or crickets every 7–10 days; slings eat heavily and grow fast.

Handling, temperament & health

Large, fast and defensive with potent urticating hairs; do not handle.

Health watch: Watch for dehydration and stuck molts; always provide a water dish and never feed a molting spider.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Quick visual check – no need to disturb.

Weekly

  • Offer food; remove leftovers (boluses) within 24 h.
  • Refill the water dish; overflow it slightly now and then to dampen one corner.

Monthly

  • Check crew and moisture; a dry top with a slightly moist lower layer is ideal.

Yearly

  • Rehouse into a larger enclosure as the spider grows.

Recommended for a bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 30 × 30 cm).

Bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater FAQ

Is the bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater good for beginners?

The bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Large, fast and defensive with potent urticating hairs; do not handle.

What size enclosure does a bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater need?

At least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (about 18 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 11 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater cost in Canada?

Typically $80–250 CAD to buy, about $110–180 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $60–120 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater need?

Temperature: 22–27°C. Humidity: 65–75%.

What does a bolivian steely blue-leg birdeater eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–4 large roaches or crickets every 7–10 days; slings eat heavily and grow fast.

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This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.