Hello to all plus a quick question.

[Robert Farmer]

Hi everyone out there my name is *see above lol* and have been keeping my B. Boehmei sling for about a fortnight now.

After having trawled through 2 books and countless sites I decided I was clued up enough to be able to apply myself fully to the hobby.

So far so good!

My sling is a voracious eater (which is nice) and I'm currently using peat as a sub.

Only thing is that when it'd feeding the sling seems to be wrestling with the crumbly sub as much as the prey (as if clumps of peat are sticking to the crickets feet, not web as some may think!).

What are your opinions on substrate for slings?

The sling doesn't climb the walls or indicate any other traits which would lead me to believe it isn't happy with the current substrate but I'm interested to hear your opinions.

Thanks in advance,

Rob.

[Nicola Dolby]

slings

Hi Robert,
I only use topsoil for my tarantulas. That is not a criticism of any other substrate, as long as the spider cannot be harmed there shouldn't be a concern whatever you use. out of interest how dry is the peat? I know little about Brachys but i do know they like substrate a little dry. If the sling is too small for a waterbowl then lightly spray a small part of one of the walls of its container, just above the substrate. I know they're not arborials but if thirsty it may wander over to the droplets and drink. Having said that it should be getting all the moisture needed from its food. Anyway, back to substrates. As I say I only use topsoil, I know there is more of a risk with fungus and stuff, but it gives me more time with my tarantulas so I don't mind. Hope this helps

[Robert Farmer]

Thanks for the reply.

I mist once per week very lightly.

I've since added a layer of fine light coloured gravel (easier to see cricket remains now lol ) and my wee sling looks just as happy as ever!

[Colin D Wilson]

I tend to agree with Nichola, you can buy steralised top soil from local DIY stores, (be sure to check if the soil has any insectasides, fertalisers or bleaches added, if so DONT use). You may have to clean the environment more often to avoid molds etc but that's all part of the experience in my mind.
I myself mix a little vermiculite (again a sterile product) with the soil to lighten it (both in weight and colour), it tends to hold a little more moisture so you dont have to mist so often. Again, as Nichola says, mist the side of the tank / container so the sling can drink from the small droplets. Good luck

[Simon Batten]

I always use either pure vermiculite or vermiculite/forest bedding 50/50, I dont think gravel is the best thing to use to be honest

[Robert Farmer]

I always use either pure vermiculite or vermiculite/forest bedding 50/50, I dont think gravel is the best thing to use to be honest

It's more like 50:50 gravel/peat at the mo, I'm going to try some vermic mixed with coir soon.