Devil Scorpion

Looks how to spot one

Exoskeleton

A small, uniformly dark scorpion with a dull, nearly black carapace and abdomen. The legs and claws can be a dark reddish or brownish colour. The body is unstriped, which distinguishes it from some other scorpion species.12

Personality what they are like

This scorpion can be a bit feisty and defensive, but its venom is not considered very toxic to humans. It is an active and enthusiastic hunter, often described as a 'vicious eater' by keepers. It is generally not aggressive unless provoked, but it will sting to defend itself or subdue prey.46

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Nocturnal and fairly active at night. In captivity, it requires a secure enclosure with a deep substrate (2 to 3 inches) for burrowing, along with hides such as cork bark and leaf litter. A temperature gradient and a humid microclimate are appreciated.46

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Minimal grooming needed. The enclosure should be spot cleaned regularly to remove uneaten prey and waste. A shallow water dish should be provided and kept clean. The substrate should be kept partially moist to maintain humidity, as this species prefers a moist environment.62

Home where they are happiest

A secure terrarium with a tight-fitting lid is essential. Provide 2 to 3 inches of substrate (such as coco fibre or soil) for burrowing, with one side kept moist and the other dry. Include hides like cork bark and leaf litter. A shallow water dish is needed. Temperature can be room temperature (around 70-80°F) and a heat mat can be used to create a warm spot. This species is not desert-dwelling; it prefers a humid, mesic environment.461

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A predator of small arthropods. In captivity, it readily accepts crickets, mealworms, termites, roaches, and other appropriately sized insects. Feed 2 to 3 times a week. It can take prey nearly as large as itself, but soft-bodied prey is preferred.176

Company who they like around

Solitary. This species can be cannibalistic, especially towards smaller individuals. It is best kept alone. It is not venomous enough to be dangerous to humans, but its sting can be painful. It is not a protected species and is legal to keep in most areas, but local regulations should always be checked.14

The story where it all began

The southern devil scorpion has been known to science since 1805, when it was first described by Palisot de Beauvois. It is a native species of the southeastern United States, where it has long been a familiar inhabitant of moist woodlands. In recent decades, it has gained popularity among invertebrate hobbyists due to its manageable size, relatively mild venom, and interesting behaviour. It is often collected from the wild or bred in captivity for the pet trade.14