Are you a lover of all creatures, no matter how scary they appear? If so, then a pet scorpion could be the excellent companion for you!
You’ve doubtless heard horror tales about these nocturnal predators, however do you know that a number of species are each mild and appropriate as pets?
From emperor scorpions to striped dwarf bark scorpions, there’s a variety of exotics on the market. Here’s an inside look into the 8 finest scorpion sorts together with their distinctive habitat wants and what it’ll value to make them a part of your loved ones.
Get prepared for some severe “sting”er-tainment!
Emperor Scorpion
The emperor scorpion (Pandinus imperator) is among the hottest pet scorpions on this planet. It’s native to tropical West Africa and may attain as much as 8 inches lengthy when absolutely grown, making it one of many largest species of scorpion.
This nocturnal creature has a shiny black exoskeleton that provides off a metallic sheen underneath brilliant mild, with yellow-tinted claws and legs that distinction fantastically in opposition to its darkish carapace. Emperor scorpions are identified for his or her docile temperament and mild nature, permitting them to be dealt with safely by adults and even youngsters who’re supervised correctly.
In phrases of housing necessities, a 10-gallon tank will present sufficient area for an grownup emperor scorpion whereas juveniles might require smaller enclosures as they develop into maturity. Emperor scorpions are nocturnal so they’ll want a safe habitat the place they’ll disguise throughout sunlight hours. They additionally require excessive humidity ranges for optimum well being so ideally an enclosure with excessive humidity ranges however well-ventilated air circulation. They additionally choose temperatures between 75°F–85°F throughout the day and 65°F–75°F at night time to be able to keep wholesome. Check out our emperor scorpion care guide here.
As for meals, they want loads of stay meals sources equivalent to crickets or mealworms, and a planned feeding frequency. On common, it is best to count on to pay between $30-$60 USD for an Emperor Scorpion relying on measurement and age.
Emperor Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Pandinus imperator
Can develop as much as: 6 to eight inches
Lifespan in captivity: 6 to eight years
Average Price Range: $30 to $60 per scorpion
Experience Level Required: Beginner pleasant
Giant Forest Scorpion aka Malaysian Black Scorpion
The Giant Forest Scorpion (Heterometrus swammerdami) is a species of scorpion native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. It is among the largest species of scorpions, reaching as much as 9 inches in size when absolutely grown.
This spectacular creature has an intimidating look with its reddish-dark brown coloration and lengthy pincers, however it will possibly make for a wonderful pet if you’re prepared to supply them with its correct habitat wants.
The large forest scorpion requires excessive humidity ranges and heat temperatures to be able to thrive; nevertheless, they don’t require as a lot area as another arachnid pets would possibly want. They are additionally comparatively low-maintenance and reasonably priced in comparison with different unique animals – making them nice decisions for these on the lookout for one thing distinctive!
On common, these creatures will value between $25-$65 every relying on the place you buy them from. With their mild nature and lengthy lifespan (as much as 8 years!), the large forest scorpion might be an ideal companion for any skilled keeper!
Giant Forest Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Heterometrus swammerdami
Also often known as: Giant Blue Scorpion, Malaysian Forest Scorpion, Malaysian Black Scorpion
Can develop as much as: 5 to 9 inches
Lifespan in captivity: 7 to eight years
Average Price Range: $25 to $65 per scorpion (relying on measurement)
Experience Level Required: Beginner to Intermediate
Javanese Jungle Scorpion
The Javanese Jungle Scorpion (Heterometrus javanensis) is a species of scorpion native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia. It is among the distinctive species of scorpions, reaching as much as 4 to 7 inches in size when absolutely grown.
This spectacular creature has an intimidating look with its brown and crimson physique. They don’t have very potent venom, however are fairly defensive and territorial, utilizing their sturdy claws for protection.
The Javanese Jungle Scorpion requires excessive humidity ranges and heat temperatures to be able to thrive; nevertheless, they don’t require as a lot area as another arachnid pets would possibly want. They are additionally comparatively low-maintenance and reasonably priced in comparison with different unique animals – making them nice decisions for these on the lookout for one thing distinctive!
On common, these creatures will value between $20-$50 every relying on the place you buy them from. With their mild nature and quick lifespan (5 years or much less!), the Javanese Jungle Scorpion might be an ideal companion for any adventurous keeper!
Javanese Jungle Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Heterometrus javanensis
Can develop as much as: 4 to 7 inches
Lifespan in captivity: 5 to eight years
Average Price Range: $20-$50
Experience Level Required: Beginner to Intermediate
Dictator Scorpion
The Dictator Scorpion (Pandinus dictator) is a powerful and intimidating species of scorpion native to the tropical areas of Africa. Being a detailed relative to the Emperor Scorpion, the Dictator Scorpion can also be one of many largest scorpions in existence, reaching as much as 8 inches in size when absolutely grown. The Dictator has a singular look with its black physique and yellow-tipped claws, giving it an virtually regal air that belies its harmful nature.
This species prefers heat temperatures between 75°F – 85°F (24°C – 29°C) throughout the day in addition to excessive humidity ranges (60% or greater). A ten-gallon terrarium ought to be ample housing for this species of scorpion.
On common, these scorpions will value between $25-$65 every relying on the place you buy them from; nevertheless bigger specimens might value extra as a consequence of their measurement and rarity.
In phrases of temperament, these Dictator Scorpions may also be very defensive and territorial which is similar to the Emperor Scorpions. As for Venom, Dictator Scorpions have slightly a low venom efficiency that’s usually not deadly to adults. They use their giant pinchers extra usually for protection slightly their stingers. However, do nonetheless watch out particularly if there are kids or pregnant ladies current.
Dictator Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Pandinus dictator
Can develop as much as: About 8 inches
Lifespan in captivity: 5 to eight years
Average Price Range: $20 to $65 per scorpion
Experience Level Required: Beginner
Asian Forest Scorpion
The Asian Forest Scorpion (Heterometrus longimanus) is a species of scorpion native to the tropical forests and jungles of Southeast Asia. The menacing and stately determine of this creature is masked by its obsidian physique and golden-tipped claws, warning all who strategy that hazard lies inside.
The Asian Forest Scorpion prefers heat temperatures between 75°F – 85°F (24°C – 29°C) throughout the day in addition to excessive humidity ranges (60% or greater). A ten-gallon terrarium ought to be ample housing for this spectacular arachnid pet. On common, these creatures will value between $25-$65 every relying on the place you buy them from; nevertheless bigger specimens might value extra as a consequence of their measurement and rarity.
When it involves character, these Asian Forest Scorpions may be fairly aggressive and possessive. Their venom nevertheless isn’t successfully sturdy sufficient to trigger fatalities in adults; nevertheless, warning ought to nonetheless at all times be taken if there are children or pregnant ladies close by.
Asian Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Heterometrus longimanus
Can develop as much as: 3 to five inches
Lifespan in captivity: 5 to eight years
Average Price Range: $10 to $40 per scorpion (relying on intercourse, measurement, and age)
Experience Level Required: Beginner
Where to purchase: reptilerapture.internet
Tanzanian Red-Clawed Scorpion aka Red Claw Scorpion
The Tanzanian Red-Clawed Scorpion is one other selection of the scorpion for anybody wanting to boost their dwelling with an unique arachnid. This species of scorpion hails from Africa’s tropical rainforests, particularly Tanzania and encompasses a distinctive crimson claw that units it other than different scorpions.
They are stunning to take a look at, however these fascinating creatures are additionally identified for being extra aggressive than the emperor scorpion. Their sting may be fairly painful and far just like a bee sting. The venom from the Tanzanian Red-Clawed although not life-threatening, may be harmful to youngsters and pregnant ladies.
With its distinctive look, aggressive temperament, and comparatively low value, the Tanzanian Red-Clawed Scorpion isn’t newbie pleasant however appropriate for many who are up for an journey.
Tanzanian Red-Clawed Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Pandinus cavimanus
Also often known as: Red Claw Scorpion
Can develop as much as: 3.5 to five inches
Lifespan in captivity: 8 years (generally extra in captivity)
Average Price Range: $14 to $50 per scorpion
Experience Level Required: Intermediate to Advanced
Israeli Gold Scorpion
The Israeli gold scorpion (Pandinus imperator) is a powerful and intimidating creature that has lengthy been standard amongst unique pet fanatics. Native to tropical areas of western Africa, these arachnids can attain as much as 3 inches in size when absolutely grown.
These Scorpions are hardy however may be aggressive when sensing hazard, which makes them more durable to deal with than different species of scorpions such because the emperor scorpion – So at all times deal with them fastidiously both with gloves or tweezers. Experienced handlers are suggested when dealing with these creatures as a consequence of their aggressive temperament – they’ve been identified to inflict severe damage if provoked!
This species prefers heat temperatures between 75°F – 85°F (24°C – 29°C) throughout the day, in addition to excessive humidity ranges (60% or greater). A ten-gallon terrarium ought to be ample housing for this species of scorpion. On common, these scorpions will value between $20-$120 every relying on the place you buy them from; nevertheless, bigger specimens might value extra
Israeli Gold Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Scorpio maurus
Also often known as: Large-clawed scorpion, Israeli Large Claw, Middle East Gold Scorpion
Can develop as much as: 2 to three inches
Lifespan in captivity: Around 5 years or much less
Average Price Range: $20 to $120 per scorpion (relying on intercourse, measurement and age)
Experience Level Required: Intermediate to superior
Desert Hairy Scorpion
The Desert Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis) is an unbelievable arachnid native to the desert areas of Arizona, California and Nevada. It is among the largest species of scorpion in North America, with adults reaching as much as 5 to six inches in size. This spectacular creature has a singular look — its physique is roofed in brief hairs and it has lengthy pincers that carry venom sturdy sufficient to trigger severe damage if provoked.
The desert furry scorpion prefers heat temperatures between 70°F – 85°F (21°C – 29°C) throughout the day and excessive humidity ranges (60% or greater). A ten-gallon terrarium ought to be ample housing for this species of scorpion.
On common, these scorpions will value between $20-$100 every relying on the place you buy them from; nevertheless bigger specimens might value extra as a consequence of their measurement and rarity.
This species requires minimal care however may be aggressive when sensing hazard so at all times deal with them fastidiously both with gloves or tweezers—skilled handlers are suggested when dealing with these creatures! With its distinctive look, intimidating temperament, and comparatively low value, the Desert Hairy Scorpion makes an attention-grabbing addition to any unique pet assortment
Desert Hairy Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Hadrurus arizonensis
Also often known as: Arizona Desert Hairy Scorpion, Giant Hairy Desert Scorpion
Can develop as much as: 4 to six inches
Lifespan in captivity: 20 years+
Average Price Range: $20 to $40 per scorpion
Experience Level Required: Intermediate to Advanced
Scorpions make a great exotic pet for skilled handlers who’re on the lookout for one thing totally different and may deal with the intimidating temperament of those creatures. They are available all shapes, sizes, and colours; from Israeli Gold Scorpions to Desert Hairy Scorpions. Prices vary from $14-$50 per scorpion relying on the place you purchase them and their measurement/age. You might even have the ability to discover some at native pet shops or on-line retailers specializing in arachnids! With correct care and dealing with methods, any considered one of these 8 species might change into a beloved member of your loved ones – so decide up an arachnid at present!
