Arizona bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus)
Photo: Andrew Meeds / CC BY 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Arachnid · Scorpion

Arizona bark scorpion care guide

Centruroides sculpturatus

ExpertMedically significant venomMay need a permit

The arizona bark scorpion is a expert-level scorpion from SW USA, NW Mexico. Adults reach Length 5–8 cm and live 3–6 years in captivity. Most venomous scorpion in North America; escape-proof locked enclosure and an emergency plan are essential.

  • Enclosure 30 × 30 × 30 cm
  • Temp 24–30°C
  • Humidity 35–50%

How much does a arizona bark scorpion cost in Canada?

Animal$20–60Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$110–210Enclosure $30–70 · equipment $40–90 · bioactive supplies ≈ $40
Yearly upkeep$30–60Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$160–330All prices CAD, estimates

Arizona bark scorpion quick facts

Skill level
Expert
Adult size
Length 5–8 cm
Lifespan
3–6 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
SW USA, NW Mexico
Minimum enclosure
30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 7 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
24–30°C
Humidity
35–50%
UVB
Not needed
Diet
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
Bioactive style
Desert invertebrate

Arizona bark scorpion enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a desert invertebrate bioactive build.

  1. Soil and sand mix8 cm

Keep it dry with one slightly moistened corner. Desert species are sensitive to stuffy, wet conditions.

Temperature: 24–30°C. Humidity: 35–50%. UVB: Not needed.

Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.

What does a arizona bark scorpion eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–3 small crickets weekly.

Handling, temperament & health

Never handle; use long tongs and a catch container, and keep the enclosure locked.

Health watch: Too much humidity and poor ventilation cause deaths; keep it dry with a tiny water dish or a lightly misted corner weekly.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Visual check.

Weekly

  • Feed; remove leftovers.
  • Moisten one corner lightly.

Monthly

  • Check the soil hasn’t become damp throughout.

Yearly

  • Refresh substrate if it smells or compacts.

Recommended for a arizona bark scorpion bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 30 × 30 cm).

Arizona bark scorpion FAQ

Is the arizona bark scorpion good for beginners?

No – the arizona bark scorpion is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Never handle; use long tongs and a catch container, and keep the enclosure locked.

What size enclosure does a arizona bark scorpion need?

At least 30 × 30 × 30 cm (about 12 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 7 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a arizona bark scorpion cost in Canada?

Typically $20–60 CAD to buy, about $110–210 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $30–60 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a arizona bark scorpion need?

Temperature: 24–30°C. Humidity: 35–50%.

What does a arizona bark scorpion eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–3 small crickets weekly.

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This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.