How to Care for Emperor Scorpions: Tips for Beginner Arachnid Pet Owners

In this video, you will learn how to care for emperor scorpions. Emperor scorpions are an interesting pet option for beginners interested in arachnid pets. They are docile, tolerant of caregiver mistakes, and can grow up to 8 inches in length. To provide suitable housing for your emperor scorpion, use a well-ventilated glass or plastic tank with a secure lid. The tank should be around 30cm x 20cm x 10cm in size. It is important to maintain a suitable temperature range of 29ºC during the day and 23ºC at night, using a heat mat or a non-UV black heat lamp. The tank floor should be covered with a thick layer of substrate like cocoa fiber or peat, which should be kept moist. Additionally, provide obstacles, such as bark and rocks, for your scorpion to climb, burrow, and hide in. Maintaining high humidity levels between 60-70% is crucial, and this can be monitored using a hygrometer. Handling emperor scorpions requires great care as they can sting and bite. If you need to move them, coax them into a ventilated container with holes for air ventilation or gently pick them up just below the sting using your fingers. Although emperor scorpions can be kept together, they prefer to live alone and should have plenty of hiding places to avoid territorial issues. It is essential to provide a healthy diet of live crickets, locusts, and mealworms for your scorpion, ensuring the insects are gut-loaded beforehand. Feed your scorpion one insect at a time using tongs. It is normal for scorpions to fast for a week or more and not eat before or after molting. Make sure fresh water is available daily, avoiding harmful substances like silica gel or cotton wool soaked in water. Scorpions get exercise within their enclosure, so there is no need for additional measures. Keep their home clean by removing any food remains and changing the substrate every 3 or 4 months, using an arachnid-friendly disinfectant. Remember to contact your local vet or the pet store if you notice any abnormal behavior or excessive movement in your scorpion.