How to Care for a Desert Hairy Scorpion

The desert hairy scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis) is a popular choice for a pet scorpion. Although it is aggressive and stings readily, the venom is weak. Desert hairy scorpions are common in the deserts of the southwestern United States and are sold in many exotic pet stores. The following steps will help you care for this popular species.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Use a 2 1/2- to 5-gallon tank to house each adult separately. Adult desert hairy scorpions can attain a total length of 6 inches, and height is not as important as floor space.
2. Lay down 3 to 4 inches of sand as a substrate and a piece of bark as a hiding space since the desert hairy scorpion is an active burrower. The enclosure should be kept dark because this species is particularly sensitive to ultraviolet light.
3. Keep the enclosure for this scorpion warm (75 to 85 degrees) and dry. This species is especially sensitive to moisture and can die in high humidity.
4. Provide crickets or other large insects as live prey every other week. Reduce feeding to once a month during the winter. This species gets most of the water it needs from its prey, but you can provide a shallow container of water.
5. Put babies in a separate container with air holes if needed. The young can usually live with the mother, but she will occasionally cannibalize the young when stressed.

Tips & Warnings

• All scorpions have some venom. This species stings readily, but the venom is quite weak and is not considered dangerous. Some individuals may be especially sensitive to it, however.