Invertebrate · Centipede
Giant desert centipede care guide
Scolopendra heros
The giant desert centipede is a expert-level centipede from SW United States, northern Mexico. Adults reach Body 15–20 cm and live 5–10 years in captivity. Keep in a secure enclosure with a damp lower substrate layer and a shallow water dish.
- Enclosure 45 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 24–30°C
- Humidity 40–60% (damp lower layer)
How much does a giant desert centipede cost in Canada?
Giant desert centipede quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- Body 15–20 cm
- Lifespan
- 5–10 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- SW United States, northern Mexico
- Minimum enclosure
- 45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 24–30°C
- Humidity
- 40–60% (damp lower layer)
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – crickets, roaches, superworms
- Bioactive style
- Desert invertebrate
Giant desert centipede enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a desert invertebrate bioactive build.
- Soil and sand mix10 cm
Keep it dry with one slightly moistened corner. Desert species are sensitive to stuffy, wet conditions.
Temperature: 24–30°C. Humidity: 40–60% (damp lower layer). 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 giant desert centipede eat?
Carnivore – crickets, roaches, superworms. Feed 1–2 prey items weekly.
Handling, temperament & health
Fast and defensive with a painful venomous bite; do not handle.
Health watch: Dehydration; always provide a water dish and a damp burrow area.
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 giant desert centipede bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 30 × 30 cm).
Giant desert centipede FAQ
Is the giant desert centipede good for beginners?
No – the giant desert centipede is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Fast and defensive with a painful venomous bite; do not handle.
What size enclosure does a giant desert centipede need?
At least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (about 18 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 11 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a giant desert centipede cost in Canada?
Typically $50–100 CAD to buy, about $120–230 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $20–40 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a giant desert centipede need?
Temperature: 24–30°C. Humidity: 40–60% (damp lower layer).
What does a giant desert centipede eat?
Carnivore – crickets, roaches, superworms. Feed 1–2 prey items weekly.
Similar species
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.