California Zoological Supply | Emperor Scorpions

CALZOO'S REFERENCE SHEET > Emperor Scorpions

Latin name	Pandinus imperator	Maximum length	Up to 10 inches (Includes tail)
Native to	West Africa	Approximate life span	5 - 8 years

GENERAL INFORMATION
These scorpions are NOT deadly! They are no more harmful than a bee and are extremely docile. However, always handle with caution to avoid being stung. The sting alone would be still be painful. Slightly more than 1.5% of the 1,500 known species of scorpions are deadly. The only deadly scorpions native to the United States are found in Arizona. Rule of thumb: Large stinger, small pincers...potentially dangerous! Weak pincers mean the scorpion needs a higher toxic level of venom in order subdue it's prey. A scorpion with large pincers can kill its prey with ease. The best way to pick up scorpions is by the stinger using tongs. They can be kept in large numbers together, although two males may sometimes pair off and fight to the death. As a rule they coexist well. Emperor Scorpions are nocturnal (active at night and sleep during the day). Provide large hiding places so they can sleep. You can easily determine the sex of an Emperor Scorpion by looking on its belly. About midway you will see two comb-like appendages. These are called pectines. The "teeth" on a male's pectines are larger that that of the females. Emperor Scorpions reach sexual maturity after 6 - 7 molts (anywhere from 3 - 7 years). After sexual maturity the Emperor Scorpion ceases to molt. Gestation lasts 4 - 6 months.

ENCLOSURE
Any glass aquarium or "Carry-Pal" type containers work well. 5 Emperor Scorpions can comfortably fit into a 10-gallon aquarium. They will do a minimal amount of climbing, but a few branches and rocks situated properly will not only give them a secure hiding place, but will enhance the look enclosure as well.

SUBSTRATE
The best choice is sphagnum moss or ZOO MED REPTI-BARK™. Keep slightly damp. Females with young will prefer damp peat moss (potting soil). When the young leave the mother's back, they will start to burrow. It is more interesting to watch this when they are forced to dig their own burrows, rather than escape under sphagnum moss. If peat moss is used, mix with some Zoo Med REPTI-BARK™ to aid in drainage.

TEMPERATURE & HUMIDITY
Emperor Scorpions come from the forests in Africa where it is warm, moist and dimly lit. Daytime temperatures 80 - 85°. Nighttime temperatures 78 - 80ºf. Humidity level should be 80%. NOTE: The humidity level should never create condensation on the walls of the enclosure. This is an indication there is improper ventilation.

HEATING
ZOO MED UNDER TANK HEATER™ (U.T.H.) permanently on and use with a ZOO MED RHEOSTAT™ for heat control. ZOO MED BASKING LIGHT™ during the day. Always use a thermometer in all reptile & amphibian enclosures. Only use MINI size U.T.H. with plastic enclosures. Leave Under Tank Heaters on permanently as they take a few hours to attain their optimal temperature.

LIGHTING
UVB is not necessary, in fact they prefer darker enclosures. Although they appear black, under a fluorescent black light (which are purple) Emperor Scorpions will glow green!

FOOD & WATER
Feed medium to large size crickets 3 times a week. Keep well-fed as Emperor Scorpions have been know to cannibalize. Always feed your crickets assorted fruit and vegetables or a prepared commercial cricket diet 12 - 24 hours before feeding the crickets to your Emperor Scorpions. Dust crickets lightly with REPTIVITE™ every-other feeding. Provide a shallow water bowl with easy access. Scorpions like to lean over the bowl to drink so make sure they can easily get out of the bowl should they fall in!

NOTES
Always wash your hands before and immediately after handling reptiles and amphibians. Never leave live food long term with reptiles & amphibians. They can inflict severe harm, even kill your pet. If your animals take some time to eat or you feed them at night, leave a slice of potato, carrot or dry dog food for the live food items to eat. Your local pet shop is an ideal source for reptile and amphibian related books and supplies. Please make sure you read and become familiar with any instructions provided with reptile support products you may purchase.

For further information on reptiles and amphibians we recommend you read REPTILES MAGAZINE and THE VIVARIUM. California Zoological Supply hopes you have enjoyed reading this reference sheet on Emperor Scorpions. We hope that our guidelines will assist you with the care or possible purchase of your new pet.

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