Whipless Scorpion Care: Complete Guide for Beginners
Introduction
A whipless scorpion is a small, often ground-dwelling arachnid. Hobbyists keep them for their quiet nature and unique behavior. Many species are docile and slow-moving. Lifespans range from three to eight years, depending on species and care. This guide suits beginners and hobbyists who want clear, practical advice.
You’ll learn basic temperament, how to set up an enclosure, proper feeding, and breeding basics. I also cover humidity, substrate, and signs of illness. If you want to keep your pet healthy, follow these steps and observe closely.
Choosing the Right Whipless Scorpion
Species and size to consider
Choose a species that matches your comfort level. Some whipless scorpion species stay small and are ideal for first-timers. Others grow larger and require more space. Research common species to learn typical size, activity level, and care needs.
Age, sex, and temperament
Juveniles are easier to house together but need more frequent feeding. Adult males may be more active, while females can be larger and calmer. Start with a single, healthy juvenile or adult to learn basic care before expanding your collection.
Where to buy or adopt
Buy from reputable breeders or local exotic pet shops. Avoid wild-caught animals for conservation and health reasons. For quality supplies, consider shopping at Talis Us. They carry enclosures, hides, and proper substrate for whipless scorpions.
Whipless Scorpion Enclosure Setup
Tank size and layout
Smaller species do well in 5 to 10-gallon tanks. A wider footprint is better than tall tanks. Provide a shallow floor space for natural movement. Keep the layout simple to mimic a ground environment.
Hides, climbing surfaces, and décor
Offer multiple hides using cork bark, flat rocks, or commercially made caves. Add low branches or roots for subtle climbing and enrichment. Keep décor stable to prevent collapse during burrowing or molting.
Lid, ventilation, and security
Use a secure lid with fine mesh ventilation. Whipless scorpions can squeeze through gaps. Proper airflow prevents mold while maintaining humidity. Lock lids or use clips to prevent escapes and curious pets from opening the tank.
Substrate for Whipless Scorpions and Microclimate
Best substrate options
Choose a substrate that holds some moisture but drains well. A mix of coconut coir and peat with a little sand creates good texture. Provide 2 to 4 inches of substrate for burrowing species. Add a shallow drainage layer if your enclosure is prone to overwatering.
Whipless scorpion humidity and temperature
Target humidity and temperature depend on the species. As a general rule, keep humidity moderate, around 50–70 percent. Maintain daytime temperatures between 75–85°F and slightly cooler nights. Stable conditions reduce stress and help regular molting.
Tools to control and monitor microclimate
Use a digital thermometer and hygrometer for accuracy. A small misting bottle or a fogger can raise humidity when needed. Avoid constant wetness that causes mold. Heating pads under one part of the tank provide a warm gradient.
Whipless Scorpion Diet and Feeding
What to feed
Feed live prey like crickets, roaches, and small mealworms. Offer prey no wider than the widest part of your scorpion. Variety helps nutrition and keeps feeding interesting for the animal.
Feeding schedule and portioning
Juveniles eat more often, typically every 2–3 days. Adults can be fed twice weekly. Adjust portions to the scorpion’s appetite and body condition. Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours to avoid stress and bites.
Supplements, water access, and common diet mistakes
Provide a shallow water dish with fresh water at all times. Dust prey with calcium occasionally for growing juveniles. Avoid overfeeding and fatty prey like large waxworms. That prevents obesity and gut issues.
Breeding Whipless Scorpions
Basics of courtship and pairing
Breeding whipless scorpions requires understanding courtship rituals. Introduce a male to a receptive female in neutral territory. Watch carefully and separate if aggression appears. Courtship can be long and requires patience.
Gestation, birth, and immediate care
Gestation varies by species but often lasts several months. Females give live birth and carry young on their back. Provide quiet, secure hides and stable humidity during this period. Do not disturb her while she cares for young.
Raising juveniles
Keep juveniles on their mother until their first molt if possible. Provide tiny prey like pinhead crickets for early feeding. House juveniles separately as they grow to prevent cannibalism. Track molts and growth closely during the first year.
Health, Handling, and Common Problems
Signs of good health and warning signs
A healthy whipless scorpion is active at night and eats regularly. Bright eyes, a full tail, and firm body are good signs. Watch for lethargy, loss of appetite, or discoloration. These indicate stress or illness and need attention.
Molting: what to expect
Molting is a vulnerable time. Scorpions stop eating and hide. Do not handle or disturb them during this phase. Maintain humidity to help the process. Remove uneaten prey to protect the vulnerable scorpion.
Handling and safety
Limit handling to necessary checks. Whipless scorpions are not commonly aggressive, but they are fragile. Use soft tools like a small scoop or paintbrush for gentle moves. Wash hands before and after handling, and keep children supervised.
Conclusion
Checklist recap: suitable tank size, secure lid, proper hides, correct substrate for whipless scorpions, and stable humidity and temperature. Feed live prey in the right sizes and track juvenile growth carefully. For breeding, provide quiet hides and patience.
Long-term success comes from observation and consistent care. Buy quality supplies from trusted sellers like Talis Us to set up a healthy home. Start small, learn your pet’s habits, and enjoy watching their unique behavior.
Keeping a whipless scorpion can be a rewarding hobby. With good setup and consistent care, your scorpion will thrive. Observe often and adjust care to your pet’s needs.
