Hysterocrates gigas (red baboon)

*SLINGS*

Big, burrowy unit with serious bulldozer energy. Fast grower, thirsty, and occasionally semi-aquatic—this one will remodel overnight and happily use a big water dish like a mini pool. Watch, don’t touch.

Quick care

• Lifestyle: Fossorial power-burrower; no urticating hairs—relies on speed and attitude.
• Enclosure: Floor space over height with a very secure lid; strong cross-vent; add a wide cork hide.
• Substrate: 15–20 cm firmly packed and kept evenly moist (not swampy). Leaf litter helps.
• Water: Oversized water dish is a must; optional shallow “wet zone” (1–2 cm) with an easy ramp out.
• Temps/Humidity: 23–27 °C; high humidity with good airflow
• Feeding: Voracious—slings 2× tiny feeders weekly; juvies every 5–7 days; adults 7–10 days. Pause during premoult.
• Temperament: Skittish/defensive with rapid bursts—no handling.