Large-clawed Scorpion

Looks how to spot one

Exoskeleton

The body is covered by a hard, segmented exoskeleton. It has large, powerful pincers (pedipalps) and a segmented tail ending in a venomous stinger. The surface is granular in texture, and the legs are lighter in colour.41

Personality what they are like

Large-clawed scorpions are semi-aggressive and defensive. They prefer to use their strong pincers for defence rather than stinging, but they will pinch if provoked. They are not social and should be housed alone. Handling is stressful for them and should be avoided.253

Daily activity how busy a day looks

These scorpions are nocturnal and have a low activity level. They spend most of the day hidden in their burrows and may be seen standing at the burrow entrance with pincers raised. They do not need a large enclosure, but they do need deep substrate for digging.34

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Minimal grooming is needed. The main care requirement is maintaining a clean enclosure with appropriate substrate moisture. The substrate should be dry on top and slightly damp deeper down to mimic their natural burrows. Avoid high humidity, which can cause fungal infections.63

Home where they are happiest

Provide a terrarium of at least 2 gallons (8 litres) for a single adult, with floor space more important than height. Use a deep, compactable sandy or loamy substrate (at least 4-6 inches) to allow burrowing. Maintain a temperature gradient of 22-30°C (72-86°F) and a humidity of 30-60%. Include hides such as bark or rocks. This species is venomous, so handle with care and keep out of reach of children.376

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Carnivorous. Feed appropriately sized live or pre-killed insects such as small crickets, mealworms, and dubia nymphs. Prey should be no larger than the scorpion's carapace. Adults may be fed once a week; remove uneaten prey within 24 hours.37

Company who they like around

Solitary. Large-clawed scorpions are not social and should be housed alone. They do not share burrows and may become aggressive towards each other. They are not a pet for handling; they can deliver a painful sting, though it is not considered dangerous to healthy humans. Keep them away from young children and people with allergies.32

The story where it all began

The large-clawed scorpion has been known to science for a long time and is widely distributed across North Africa and the Middle East. It is a classic burrowing desert species, often found in deep burrows that can reach up to a metre in depth. In the pet trade, it is appreciated for its interesting appearance and relatively simple care, though it is not as commonly kept as some tropical species. Its popularity among hobbyists has grown due to its manageable size and the fact that it rarely stings, preferring to use its strong claws for defence.127

Recognised by the official bits

The Scorpion Files

Recognised as a species with 19 described subspecies, varying in colour from yellow to red-brown, with some dark brown or blackish forms.2