Deathstalker scorpion (Leiurus quinquestriatus)
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Arachnid · Scorpion

Deathstalker scorpion care guide

Leiurus quinquestriatus

ExpertMedically significant venomMay need a permit

The deathstalker scorpion is a expert-level scorpion from North Africa, Middle East. Adults reach Length 8–10 cm and live 4–6 years in captivity. Among the most dangerous scorpions; locked escape-proof enclosure and local permits required.

  • Enclosure 30 × 30 × 30 cm
  • Temp 28–34°C
  • Humidity 20–30%

How much does a deathstalker scorpion cost in Canada?

Animal$60–150Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$110–210Enclosure $30–70 · equipment $40–90 · bioactive supplies ≈ $40
Yearly upkeep$40–90Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$210–450All prices CAD, estimates

Deathstalker scorpion quick facts

Skill level
Expert
Adult size
Length 8–10 cm
Lifespan
4–6 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
North Africa, Middle East
Minimum enclosure
30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 7 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
28–34°C
Humidity
20–30%
UVB
Not needed
Diet
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
Bioactive style
Desert invertebrate

Deathstalker 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 mix10 cm

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

Temperature: 28–34°C. Humidity: 20–30%. 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 deathstalker scorpion eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–3 appropriately sized insects every 7–10 days; remove uneaten prey after 24 hours.

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 deathstalker scorpion bioactive

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

Deathstalker scorpion FAQ

Is the deathstalker scorpion good for beginners?

No – the deathstalker 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 deathstalker 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 deathstalker scorpion cost in Canada?

Typically $60–150 CAD to buy, about $110–210 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $40–90 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a deathstalker scorpion need?

Temperature: 28–34°C. Humidity: 20–30%.

What does a deathstalker scorpion eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–3 appropriately sized insects every 7–10 days; remove uneaten prey after 24 hours.

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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.