Scorpion

Scorpions are in the arthropod class Arachnida, in the order Sorpionida.  There are between 1000 and 1500 species of scorpions.  Scorpions are venemous, and should be handled with caution.  Scorpions are nocturnal and secretive.  They are inactive during the day and generally feed at night.  They tend to burrow beneath the substrate in their cage.  Scorpions may live up to 12 years in captivity if properly maintained.

Availability: *Due to the high price of these Arachnids we cannot provide one to you.  But if you want to buy a scorpion on your own, we can let you know of good suppliers to go through.  Here are some rearing tips for you.

Housing: Scorpions have fairly simple needs for shelter.  They should be maintained in a secure container (generally a glass aquarium or plastic terrarium will suffice) with a tight-fitting, ventilated lid.  Scorpions climb, so it is imperative to use a fairly high-sided terrarium.  A 5-gallon terrarium generally provides adequate space for one or two animals.  Scorpions kept together should be of similar size.  Scorpions are nocturnal and do not need to bask.  They should not need supplemental lighting.  The best heat source is a tank bottom heater.  A small dry tank heater that maintains a constant temperature of about 80 degrees F is ideal.  Place the heater on no more than 1/3 of the tank bottom.  This provides a heat gradient in the tank, allowing the animal to regulate its own body temperature.  If a scorpion does not feed, it may be too cold.  If it remains on the surface (not burrowing), acts very aggressive, and then appears uncoordinated or "angry", the temperature may be too high.  Scorpions need a warm humid terrarium with a substrate of  bark or mulch.  Substrate depth should be at least 2-3 inches and may be up to twice the length of the scorpion.  Saturate the bottom 1/2 inch (no more) of bark or mulch with water.  Spray the substrate every few days so that it stays moist.  You can add a can or cup for the scorpion to hide inside of as well.  Partially bury it in the substrate, so there is just enough room for the scorpion to enter and turn around. 

Food: Feed 1-3 live crickets one time each week.  You can offer mealworms for occasional variety in diet.  Provide the food at night to simulate the scorpion's normal feeding cycle.  If the scorpion is not feeding do not add more crickets, as it may be preparing to molt and the crickets may feed on it before it has had time to fully sclerotize.  Try to remove all crickets from the cage if you think that molting may soon occur.  Check the temperature as well, to make sure that the cage is warm enough for the scorpion.