So, you’re thinking about buying scorpions? As pets, scorpions are definitely fascinating, but they also require a lot of care and attention. These arachnids belong to the order Scorpiones, and there are around 1,500 different species out there!
Before you even think about acquiring a scorpion, it’s vital to do your homework and understand what responsible scorpion ownership entails. Never, ever bring one of these creatures home without knowing exactly what it needs to survive and thrive.
This article will give you the essential information you need if you’re considering scorpion ownership.
Understanding scorpions: Basic biology and behavior
If you’re thinking about buying a scorpion, it’s helpful to know a bit about them.
Scorpion characteristics
- Scorpions are nocturnal, so they’re active at night.
- Most scorpion species live in the tropics, but one introduced species has taken up residence in the UK.
- Many live underground in burrows, but others make their homes above ground.
- Some scorpions can live as long as six or seven years.
Why keep scorpions?
It’s important to remember that scorpions should be kept for the purpose of observation, not to be shown off to friends. These fascinating creatures have unique behaviors and adaptations that make them compelling to study.
Setting Up a Scorpion Habitat
Once you’ve done your research and decided which scorpion is right for you, you’ll need to set up a habitat that meets its needs.
Enclosure Requirements
A secure glass aquarium with a lid that locks is usually the best bet. You’ll need to make sure your enclosure maintains the temperature and humidity recommended for your particular scorpion species.
Substrate Selection
The kind of substrate to use in your scorpion’s enclosure will depend on whether you have a forest species or a desert species.
Forest species will need a substrate depth of about 6 or 7 centimeters (about 2.5 inches), while desert species will need about 10 cm (almost 4 inches) so they can burrow.
Heating and Lighting
Heat mats are generally recommended to keep your scorpion warm enough. You’ll want to create a temperature gradient in the enclosure, with one area around 25°C (77°F). Be sure to use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, and place the heat mat in a way that lets your scorpion move to a cooler part of the enclosure if it needs to.
Feeding and Hydration
Scorpions are carnivores. In the wild, they eat insects, spiders, and even small mice and lizards.
If you have a large scorpion like a Pandinus imperator, you’ll probably need to feed it two or three adult crickets each week. You should always feed your scorpion at night, as that is when it will naturally hunt.
You’ll also need to give your scorpion a shallow dish of fresh water. Make sure you keep the water clean.
Safety and Handling
Before you buy a scorpion, you need to know how to handle it safely.
Risks of Handling
Most scorpions should never be handled. Some species have stings that are dangerous to humans, and it takes an expert to know which species are safe to handle.
It’s risky to assume the seller knows what they’re talking about. There are 100 species of scorpion that have stings that could put you in danger.
Safe Handling Practices
If you absolutely must handle a scorpion, use long, foam-tipped forceps (tweezers). Even then, you should use extreme caution and treat the scorpion and its venom with respect.
Choosing the Right Scorpion Species
Not all scorpions are created equal. Some are docile and easy to care for, while others are aggressive and require expert handling. When you’re starting out, it’s crucial to pick a species that’s known for being relatively chill.
Recommended Species for Beginners
The Imperial Scorpion (Pandinus imperator) is a popular choice for beginners because of its docile nature. Scorpions from the Heterometrus and Pandinus genera are generally known for their calm temperaments. The Pandinus imperator can grow up to 15 centimeters, making it an impressive but manageable pet.
Species to Avoid
Avoid species from the Hadrurus, Androctonus, and Centruroides genera. These scorpions can be more aggressive and their venom can be more potent. Even the Hadrurus species, which only reaches about 10 centimeters in size, is not recommended for beginners.
Importance of Accurate Identification
Always double-check the species identification with a trusted source. Mistakes can be dangerous, as some scorpions can inflict a painful or even dangerous sting.
In Summary
Bringing a scorpion into your home is a serious commitment. As a responsible scorpion owner, you’ll need to learn all you can about the specific species you’ve chosen and adjust your care practices accordingly.
To recap, before you buy a scorpion, do your research. Set up a suitable habitat. Learn what your scorpion eats and how often it needs to feed. Prioritize safety – for yourself and your scorpion. And most importantly, select a scorpion species that matches your experience level and available resources.