Are you a lover of all creatures, regardless of how scary they seem? If so, then a pet scorpion may be the perfect companion for you!
You’ve likely heard horror stories about these nocturnal predators, but did you know that several species are both gentle and suitable as pets?
From emperor scorpions to striped dwarf bark scorpions, there’s a wide range of exotics out there. Here’s an inside look into the 8 best scorpion types along with their unique habitat needs and what it’ll cost to make them part of your family.
Get ready for some serious “sting”er-tainment!
Emperor Scorpion
The emperor scorpion (Pandinus imperator) is one of the most popular pet scorpions in the world. It’s native to tropical West Africa and can reach up to 8 inches long when fully grown, making it one of the largest species of scorpion.
This nocturnal creature has a glossy black exoskeleton that gives off a metallic sheen under bright light, with yellow-tinted claws and legs that contrast beautifully against its dark carapace. Emperor scorpions are known for their docile temperament and gentle nature, allowing them to be handled safely by adults and even children who are supervised properly.
In terms of housing requirements, a 10-gallon tank will provide enough space for an adult emperor scorpion while juveniles may require smaller enclosures as they grow into adulthood. Emperor scorpions are nocturnal so they will need a secure habitat where they can hide during daylight hours. They also require high humidity levels for optimal health so preferably an enclosure with high humidity levels but well-ventilated air circulation. They also prefer temperatures between 75°F–85°F during the day and 65°F–75°F at night in order to stay healthy
As for food, they need plenty of live food sources such as crickets or mealworms. On average, you should expect to pay between $30-$60 USD for an Emperor Scorpion depending on size and age.
Emperor Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Pandinus imperator
Can grow up to: 6 to 8 inches
Lifespan in captivity: 6 to 8 years
Average Price Range: $30 to $60 per scorpion
Experience Level Required: Beginner friendly
Giant Forest Scorpion aka Malaysian Black Scorpion
The Giant Forest Scorpion (Heterometrus swammerdami) is a species of scorpion native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. It is one of the largest species of scorpions, reaching up to 9 inches in length when fully grown.
This impressive creature has an intimidating appearance with its reddish-dark brown coloration and long pincers, but it can make for an excellent pet if you are willing to provide them with its proper habitat needs.
The giant forest scorpion requires high humidity levels and warm temperatures in order to thrive; however, they do not require as much space as some other arachnid pets might need. They are also relatively low-maintenance and affordable compared to other exotic animals – making them great choices for those looking for something unique!
On average, these creatures will cost between $25-$65 each depending on where you purchase them from. With their gentle nature and long lifespan (up to 8 years!), the giant forest scorpion could be a perfect companion for any experienced keeper!
Giant Forest Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Heterometrus swammerdami
Also known as: Giant Blue Scorpion, Malaysian Forest Scorpion, Malaysian Black Scorpion
Can grow up to: 5 to 9 inches
Lifespan in captivity: 7 to 8 years
Average Price Range: $25 to $65 per scorpion (depending on size)
Experience Level Required: Beginner to Intermediate
Javanese Jungle Scorpion
The Javanese Jungle Scorpion (Heterometrus javanensis) is a species of scorpion native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, specifically Indonesia. It is one of the unique species of scorpions, reaching up to 4 to 7 inches in length when fully grown.
This impressive creature has an intimidating appearance with its brown and red body. They don’t have very potent venom, but are quite defensive and territorial, using their strong claws for defense.
The Javanese Jungle Scorpion requires high humidity levels and warm temperatures in order to thrive; however, they do not require as much space as some other arachnid pets might need. They are also relatively low-maintenance and affordable compared to other exotic animals – making them great choices for those looking for something unique!
On average, these creatures will cost between $20-$50 each depending on where you purchase them from. With their gentle nature and short lifespan (5 years or less!), the Javanese Jungle Scorpion could be a perfect companion for any adventurous keeper!
Javanese Jungle Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Heterometrus javanensis
Can grow up to: 4 to 7 inches
Lifespan in captivity: 5 to 8 years
Average Price Range: $20-$50
Experience Level Required: Beginner to Intermediate
Dictator Scorpion
The Dictator Scorpion (Pandinus dictator) is an impressive and intimidating species of scorpion native to the tropical regions of Africa. Being a close relative to the Emperor Scorpion, the Dictator Scorpion is also one of the largest scorpions in existence, reaching up to 8 inches in length when fully grown. The Dictator has a unique appearance with its black body and yellow-tipped claws, giving it an almost regal air that belies its dangerous nature.
This species prefers warm temperatures between 75°F – 85°F (24°C – 29°C) during the day as well as high humidity levels (60% or higher). A 10-gallon terrarium should be sufficient housing for this species of scorpion.
On average, these scorpions will cost between $25-$65 each depending on where you purchase them from; however larger specimens may cost more due to their size and rarity.
In terms of temperament, these Dictator Scorpions can also be very defensive and territorial which is very similar to the Emperor Scorpions. As for Venom, Dictator Scorpions have rather a low venom potency that is generally not lethal to adults. They use their large pinchers more often for defense rather their stingers. However, do still be careful especially if there are children or pregnant women present.
Dictator Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Pandinus dictator
Can grow up to: About 8 inches
Lifespan in captivity: 5 to 8 years
Average Price Range: $20 to $65 per scorpion
Experience Level Required: Beginner
Asian Forest Scorpion
The Asian Forest Scorpion (Heterometrus longimanus) is a species of scorpion native to the tropical forests and jungles of Southeast Asia. The menacing and stately figure of this creature is masked by its obsidian body and golden-tipped claws, warning all who approach that danger lies within.
The Asian Forest Scorpion prefers warm temperatures between 75°F – 85°F (24°C – 29°C) during the day as well as high humidity levels (60% or higher). A 10-gallon terrarium should be sufficient housing for this impressive arachnid pet. On average, these creatures will cost between $25-$65 each depending on where you purchase them from; however larger specimens may cost more due to their size and rarity.
When it comes to personality, these Asian Forest Scorpions can be quite aggressive and possessive. Their venom however is not effectively strong enough to cause fatalities in adults; however, caution should still always be taken if there are kids or pregnant women nearby.
Asian Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Heterometrus longimanus
Can grow up to: 3 to 5 inches
Lifespan in captivity: 5 to 8 years
Average Price Range: $10 to $40 per scorpion (depending on sex, size, and age)
Experience Level Required: Beginner
Where to buy: reptilerapture.net
Tanzanian Red-Clawed Scorpion aka Red Claw Scorpion
The Tanzanian Red-Clawed Scorpion is another choice of the scorpion for anyone looking to spice up their home with an exotic arachnid. This species of scorpion hails from Africa’s tropical rainforests, specifically Tanzania and features a distinctive red claw that sets it apart from other scorpions.
They are beautiful to look at, but these fascinating creatures are also known for being more aggressive than the emperor scorpion. Their sting can be quite painful and much similar to a bee sting. The venom from the Tanzanian Red-Clawed though not life-threatening, can be dangerous to children and pregnant women.
With its unique appearance, aggressive temperament, and relatively low cost, the Tanzanian Red-Clawed Scorpion is not beginner friendly but suitable for those who are up for an adventure.
Tanzanian Red-Clawed Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Pandinus cavimanus
Also known as: Red Claw Scorpion
Can grow up to: 3.5 to 5 inches
Lifespan in captivity: 8 years (sometimes more in captivity)
Average Price Range: $14 to $50 per scorpion
Experience Level Required: Intermediate to Advanced
Israeli Gold Scorpion
The Israeli gold scorpion (Pandinus imperator) is an impressive and intimidating creature that has long been popular among exotic pet enthusiasts. Native to tropical regions of western Africa, these arachnids can reach up to 3 inches in length when fully grown.
These Scorpions are hardy but can be aggressive when sensing danger, which makes them harder to handle than other species of scorpions such as the emperor scorpion – So always handle them carefully either with gloves or tweezers. Experienced handlers are advised when handling these creatures due to their aggressive temperament – they have been known to inflict serious injury if provoked!
This species prefers warm temperatures between 75°F – 85°F (24°C – 29°C) during the day, as well as high humidity levels (60% or higher). A 10-gallon terrarium should be sufficient housing for this species of scorpion. On average, these scorpions will cost between $20-$120 each depending on where you purchase them from; however, larger specimens may cost more
Israeli Gold Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Scorpio maurus
Also known as: Large-clawed scorpion, Israeli Large Claw, Middle East Gold Scorpion
Can grow up to: 2 to 3 inches
Lifespan in captivity: Around 5 years or less
Average Price Range: $20 to $120 per scorpion (depending on sex, size and age)
Experience Level Required: Intermediate to advanced
Desert Hairy Scorpion
The Desert Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis) is an incredible arachnid native to the desert regions of Arizona, California and Nevada. It is one of the largest species of scorpion in North America, with adults reaching up to 5 to 6 inches in length. This impressive creature has a unique look — its body is covered in short hairs and it has long pincers that carry venom strong enough to cause serious injury if provoked.
The desert hairy scorpion prefers warm temperatures between 70°F – 85°F (21°C – 29°C) during the day and high humidity levels (60% or higher). A 10-gallon terrarium should be sufficient housing for this species of scorpion.
On average, these scorpions will cost between $20-$100 each depending on where you purchase them from; however larger specimens may cost more due to their size and rarity.
This species requires minimal care but can be aggressive when sensing danger so always handle them carefully either with gloves or tweezers—experienced handlers are advised when handling these creatures! With its unique appearance, intimidating temperament, and relatively low cost, the Desert Hairy Scorpion makes an interesting addition to any exotic pet collection
Desert Hairy Scorpion Fact Sheet and Cost
Scientific Name: Hadrurus arizonensis
Also known as: Arizona Desert Hairy Scorpion, Giant Hairy Desert Scorpion
Can grow up to: 4 to 6 inches
Lifespan in captivity: 20 years+
Average Price Range: $20 to $40 per scorpion
Experience Level Required: Intermediate to Advanced
Scorpions make a great exotic pet for experienced handlers who are looking for something different and can handle the intimidating temperament of these creatures. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors; from Israeli Gold Scorpions to Desert Hairy Scorpions. Prices range from $14-$50 per scorpion depending on where you buy them and their size/age. You may even be able to find some at local pet stores or online retailers that specialize in reptiles! With proper care and handling techniques, any one of these 8 species could become a beloved member of your family – so pick up an arachnid today!
