Pamphobeteus sp. 'mascara'

**Mascara Giant Birdeater** — A large, fast-growing New World terrestrial from South America (Bolivia and Peru), introduced to the US hobby around 2019. Named for the rose/red 'mascara' blush behind the eyes and across the carapace against high-contrast black femurs. Unusually for the genus, mature males are the more colorful sex — deep purple with pink highlights — while females mature darker brown; the juvenile 'Christmas tree' abdominal marking often persists into adulthood.

An intermediate keeper's species mainly because of its size, speed, and appetite rather than any special difficulty. Temperament varies noticeably between individuals: some settle into bold display animals, others stay skittish or defensive and will bolt or kick urticating hairs when disturbed — handling isn't recommended.

Provide deep substrate (4-6 inches of coco fiber / peat) so it can burrow, a water dish, and room to grow into a 10+ gallon footprint. More forgiving of drier conditions than most Pamphobeteus — keep one corner damp and the water dish full rather than soaking the whole enclosure. Comfortable at 75-85°F. New World: urticating hairs present, venom not medically significant.