Ornithoctoninae sp. 'Veronica Dwarf'( Veronica Dwarf Earth Tiger) care guide
- Mar 18
- 2 min read
**Ornithoctoninae sp. 'Veronica Dwarf'**—a lesser-known but fascinating Old World dwarf tarantula.
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# 🕷️ Fast Facts
* **Common name:** Veronica Dwarf Earth Tiger
* **Scientific label:** Ornithoctoninae sp. “Veronica Dwarf” (undescribed species)
* **Origin:** Southeast Asia (likely Vietnam/Cambodia region)
* **Type:** Old World, fossorial (burrowing)
* **Size:** ~3–4 inches leg span
* **Lifespan:**
* Females: ~10–15 years
* Males: ~3–5 years
* **Temperament:** Defensive, fast, not beginner-friendly
* **Venom:** Medically significant (Old World potency; not deadly but can cause strong reactions)
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# 🏡 Enclosure Setup
This species is a **burrower**, so prioritize depth over height.
### Tank
* Size: ~5–10 gallons (they stay small)
* Orientation: Terrestrial/fossorial
* Lid: Secure (they’re quick escape artists)
### Substrate
* Depth: **4–6+ inches minimum**
* Type: Moisture-retaining mix
* Coco fiber + organic topsoil works well
* Must hold burrows without collapsing
### Decor
* Cork bark or starter burrow
* Minimal open space—they prefer tight, hidden areas
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# 🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
* **Temperature:** 72–80°F (22–27°C)
* **Humidity:** 70–85%
* Keep substrate slightly moist (not soggy)
đź’ˇ Tip: Pour water into one corner occasionally to maintain a moisture gradient.
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# 🥤 Water
* Provide a **small, shallow water dish**
* Keep it clean and topped up
* They may ignore it but humidity benefits
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# 🦗 Feeding
* Diet: Crickets, roaches, small mealworms
* Frequency:
* Slings: every 3–4 days
* Juveniles/adults: once weekly
* Prey size: Smaller than body length
⚠️ Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours.
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# 🕳️ Behavior
* Heavy burrowers—often rarely seen
* Extremely fast and skittish
* Will bolt or defend rather than tolerate handling
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# ⚠️ Handling & Safety
* **Do NOT handle**
* Old World species lack urticating hairs and rely on biting
* Use tools (tongs, catch cups) for maintenance
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# 🧼 Maintenance
* Spot clean regularly
* Watch for mold in high humidity
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# Molting Notes
* May seal burrow before molting
* Refuse food beforehand (normal)
* Do not disturb during this period
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# đź‘Ť Pros & đź‘Ž Cons
### Pros
* Unique dwarf species
* Fascinating burrowing behavior
* Small space requirements
### Cons
* Rarely visible
* Fast and defensive
* Not beginner-friendly
* Harder to source than common tarantulas
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# 🧠Quick Care Summary
* **Deep, moist substrate + high humidity**
* **No handling**
* **Small prey weekly**
* **Expect a pet hole, not a display tarantula**
