Desert hairy scorpion

Meet the Desert Hairy Scorpion, North America's largest scorpion! With its remarkable size and distinctive hairy appearance, it's not only a sight to behold but also a fascinating pet for enthusiasts. Hailing from the rigorous desert climates, this creature can flourish in captivity when provided with the right care.

  1. Habitat:

    • Enclosure: A 10-gallon terrarium or its equivalent is suitable for an adult. Ensure a secure lid to deter escape attempts.
    • Substrate: Substrate is crucial for the Desert Hairy Scorpion. Combine sand, clay, and a hint of coconut coir for best results. This blend aids in burrow stability and achieves the necessary humidity for molting. Target a depth of 4-6 inches to ensure adequate burrowing.
    • Hideouts: Besides their burrowing nature, provide other hiding spots such as flat rocks or bark pieces.

  2. Temperature & Humidity:

    • Temperature: These desert natives prefer higher temperatures, with a gradient of 26-35°C (78-95°F). Use a heating pad or ceramic heat emitter for this purpose.
    • Humidity: Despite their desert origins, they need some humidity, about 40-50%. A weekly light misting, combined with a shallow water dish, should suffice.

  3. Diet:

    • Food: Offer crickets, mealworms, or roaches. Feed adults once a week and younger scorpions 2-3 times weekly.
    • Water: Always have a shallow water dish available. While they might not drink frequently, the option should always be there.

  4. Handling:

    • Minimize handling with Desert Hairy Scorpions. Their sting isn't lethal to humans, but it can be quite painful, leading to localized swelling.
    • If necessary to handle, use tongs or a soft brush to guide them gently.

  5. Molting & Longevity:

    • Life Span: Properly cared for, Desert Hairy Scorpions can live for several years, with many reaching up to 8-10 years or longer.
    • Molting Issues: Complications during molting are a common cause of premature death in captivity. The right substrate depth and mix are vital. These scorpions often retreat into their humid burrow to molt. Without proper substrate, they might face challenges during molting, potentially leading to fatality.
    • Post-molting, they may appear paler and be more vulnerable. Allow them space and time for recovery.

Final Note: Remember, each Desert Hairy Scorpion is unique. Always observe and adapt care as needed. With attentive care, they can be a long-lived and captivating pet.

Disclaimer: This guide provides a general overview. For more in-depth care, consider consulting with arachnology experts or specialized forums.