Puerto Rican Pink Toe (Caribena laeta)

A rare gem among arboreals, Caribena laeta is an elegant and often overlooked species from the Caribbean. With its soft coloration, fuzzy legs, and graceful climbing behavior, it makes a fantastic (and less common) alternative to its famous cousin Caribena versicolor.

Quick Facts

Common Name: Puerto Rican Pink Toe

Scientific Name: Caribena laeta

Origin: Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands

Size: 4.5–5.5 inches (11–14 cm) leg span

Lifespan:

• Females: 10–12 years
• Males: ~2–3 years

Temperament: Skittish but not aggressive — fast and flighty

Coloration

Pale brown to greyish base with subtle pink/purple iridescence

Pinkish tarsi ("toes") — especially under bright light

Light fuzzy covering gives it a soft, pastel appearance

Juveniles are more vividly colored and lighten with age

Housing & Care

Enclosure Type: Arboreal — tall enclosure with vertical climbing space

Substrate: 2–3 inches of moist coco fiber

Humidity: 70–80% — mist lightly 1–2x/week

Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C)

Decor:

• Upright cork bark slab or vertical tube
• Fake plants, moss, and anchor points for webbing
• Water dish (essential)

Webs extensively if given anchor points — loves height and humidity.

Feeding

Diet: Crickets, roaches, mealworms

Feeding Schedule:

• Slings: 2–3x/week
• Juveniles: Weekly
• Adults: Every 10–14 days

Agile feeders — quick to strike but not overly aggressive

Why Keep One?

Rarely seen in the hobby — beautiful and unique species

Classic arboreal behavior with a more subtle, elegant look

Great webbers and climbers

Easier to care for than many Old World arboreals

Perfect for keepers looking to expand their Avic family collection

Notes

Fast and jumpy — not for handling

Needs good cross ventilation to prevent mold and respiratory issues

Juveniles are more bold; adults may stay hidden in their web tubes

Can be shy but active at night