Keeping Scorpions - Part 1

General advice for the keeping of live scorpions

Introduction

This information is aimed at European varieties of scorpion, but much of it may also apply to other varieties.

Scorpions in the home - varieties available

The varieties of scorpions kept by enthusiasts are usually those that are easy to acquire from common sources, i.e. pet shops. Naturally, pet suppliers tend to stock only popular varieties which will be sold quickly.

Despite making enquiries with a number of pets stores in the UK, I have been unable to purchase any of the European varieties. I have not seen them appearing on any stock lists anywhere.

I shall keep looking and making enquiries in the hope that interest in the European varieties will encourage pet shops to take notice and add them to the pet trade's regular stock lists.

Advantages and Disadvantages of keeping scorpions

Many hours of enjoyment can be achieved with persistence, patience and careful observation, but to help you decide, here are some simple comparisons:
 
 Advantages (+)

1. relatively low initial setup costs, maintenance & feeding costs
2. only limited space is required to house them
3. they are interesting subjects to photograph!
4. they won't chew your clothes or scratch the furniture
5. they don't need taking for "walkies"

 Disadvantages (-)

1. they are mainly nocturnal
2. the risk of being stung
3. special equipment may be required to maintain the correct environment
4. a licence may be required (for dangerous varieties)

Handling

The handling of scorpions is not recommended for the following reasons:-

•  it causes stress for the animal
•  there is a risk of injury to the animal
•  an increase in the chances of being stung
•  the risk of the animal getting loose and escaping

The safest approach is to never handle any scorpion with bare hands. If it becomes necessary to move a scorpion then the simplest method is to use some type of scoop (any suitably sized plastic container will suffice), preferably one with a secure lid. This is generally acknowledged as the best approach.

Alternatively, use long rubber-tipped forceps to grab the scorpion by its last-but-one tail segment (the one before the sting).

There is nothing macho about handling a scorpion!

Stings

The venom of European scorpions is generally considered to be harmless to most humans (frequently described as being equivalent to a mild bee sting), but the venom of some other species of scorpion is potentially life-threatening. Therefore, the trick is to avoid being stung.

Certain groups of people are considered to be at particularly high risk from the effects of scorpion venom. However, all individuals can suffer unpleasant or even serious side effects from a sting. In the event that you are stung, please follow the advice given under Safety Information. Regardless of which species is involved, if you are unfortunate enough to receive a sting it would be a wise precaution to seek immediate medical attention.

A particular word of caution regarding other animals: even if a scorpion sting only causes pain in a human, be aware that its effects on a smaller domestic animal (dog, cat, rabbit, hamster, etc.) may be more serious or even lethal.

Life Expectancy

Little is known about the life span of European scorpions in the wild, or in captivity for that matter. Perhaps with more interest in keeping the European varieties it will be possible in the future to indicate their life expectancy. Time will tell!

For further information, please refer to Keeping Scorpions Part 2

 
©  Copyright 2004   Gary J. Drew