Most scorpions live in the tropic zones, and the emperor scorpions are from the tropical rain-forests of western Africa. Having said that, they require the temperature range of 73-79 degree F., and the humidity should be between 75-100 %. They must not be subjected to temperature lower than 70 degree as it rarely, in the rain-forest drop below 68 degree. Heating pad stuck to the side of the tank is more preferable to light. Scorpions abhore light. A single scorpion can be housed in a 5 gallon critter keeper to a 10 gallon aquarium. If a group of these are housed together, provide them with enough floor space. Usually, 5 can be housed in a 20 gallon, providing you have large enough hidding space. For their hideout, you can use a large plastic flower pot cut in half; they are inexpensive and widely available. A lid is a must for keeping in the humidity. Wrap a plastic wrap over the screen lid and see how the humidity goes up...wrap up enough until you get the humidity up to the right level. A cheap thermometer and humidity guage can be use to tell the temperature and humidity. If it looks like it's getting too hot, move the cage to a cooler part of your home, the same as in the winter, except you move it to a warmer part. A wide, shallow, water dish with water should be provided for the scorpion to drink. Don't use sponge, which can attract mites, that may harm and kill your animal. For subtrate that covers the bottom of you animal's cage, I use potting soil ( that's peat base not compose lumber bi-product base ). I pour water onto the a little bit of the soil a little at a time until I can squeeze it tightly and it holds its shape without falling apart. You don't want it too wet, or it will start mold with the humidity...and also a perfect enviroment for breeding bacterias. Start out with a little soil at a time...if you need more dirt, you can always add--this way there is no left over. After I have done this, I pact the damp soil into the scorp. enclosure as tightly as I can until I have make a 3-4 inch deep compact floor. This method will also make the substrate wet enough to provide the cage with enough humidity. The reason, also, for this is to allow for the scorp. to excavate a dugout or a burrow--this is good for them. And lastly, feed your scorp. 2 large crickets twice week.
|
