Ornithoctonus auriotibialis

This is a species of "fairly" defesive tarantula from central Thailand. It is far from handleable by the average hobbyist and is pretty much a look only species. Its venom is fairly potent and since this species of tarantula is quick to bite, this makes it pretty much a look but don't touch type of tarantula.
This species is of the Ornithoctonus Genus, which sets it apart from many other genus in the area. Thins that set it apart would be the position of the ocular tubercle or the eyes. The Genus Haplopelma has its eyes set much more forward



The Genus Ornithoctonus has its eyes positioned much more rearward



The species Ornithoctonus auriotibialis or as it is also known as the Thailand Gold Fringe is fairly common compared to the other members of the Ornithoctonus Genus but is still semi hard to find, but far from impossible. When this species first was introduced to the hobby it was misidentified as Haplopelma minax. I'm not sure why since they really look nothing alike, but these things happen from time to time. It is a much smaller species in comparison to other tarantulas found in the area with maybe the exception of Haplopelma albostriatum and maxes out at a little bit over four inches. It is semi reclusive at a young age and gets much more reserved as it ages, coming out from its burrow only a great once in a while.
Its burrow resembles that of a volcano as seen here



In the wild, it will forage for leaf litter and use it to reinforce its burrow. Here is a good example of what you may find in the wild



The burrow entrance is usually referred to as a turret, much like a turret on a castle wall. It is elevated above the ground level and is where the tarantula will wait for prey to move by. This species, like many other species from Thailand is very territorial and would prefer to stay near its turret rather than wander off. If disturbed, normally this species will dart down the burrow to safety, but when cornered this species is very fast to throw up a threat stance and defend itself.



Many species from Thailand, and Asia for that matter will throw up a threat stance and bite, but this species I have noticed is very quick to defend its home. Many species of Haplopelma tarantulas will run to the far end of their burrows where this species will wait near the entrance as if to taunt the offender to come in and see what happens.
All in all, a very interesting species of tarantula. If you ever decide to get one, proceed with caution, they will bite.

Dang dude is that the real color of the eyes? Yall sure got some pertty trantulas!!Love seeing your pictures.

Ooo my!! Looks like she's waiting for her dance partner, Spider! It's not good to keep a lady waiting, you know. LOL
That is one beautiful T! How come the feisty ones have to be so captivating?

Actually, I photoshopped the eyes to show their positioning and how they differ from each other. In regards to keeping a girl waiting, she kind of wanted to be kept waiting, but when one of those says she wants to dance, you better start dancing!