Large-clawed scorpion (Scorpio maurus)
Photo: Guy Haimovitch / CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Arachnid · Scorpion

Large-clawed scorpion care guide

Scorpio maurus

Intermediate

The large-clawed scorpion is a intermediate-level scorpion from North Africa, Middle East. Adults reach Length 7–9 cm and live 6–10 years in captivity. Obligate burrower; give at least 20 cm of packable sand-soil mix.

  • Enclosure 45 × 30 × 30 cm
  • Temp 26–32°C
  • Humidity 30–45%

How much does a large-clawed scorpion cost in Canada?

Animal$40–100Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$150–260Enclosure $40–80 · equipment $40–90 · bioactive supplies ≈ $80
Yearly upkeep$40–90Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$230–450All prices CAD, estimates

Large-clawed scorpion quick facts

Skill level
Intermediate
Adult size
Length 7–9 cm
Lifespan
6–10 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
North Africa, Middle East
Minimum enclosure
45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
26–32°C
Humidity
30–45%
UVB
Not needed
Diet
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
Bioactive style
Desert invertebrate

Large-clawed scorpion 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.

  1. Soil and sand mix12 cm
  2. Base layer – packed coco fibre8 cm

Keep it dry with one slightly moistened corner. Desert species are sensitive to stuffy, wet conditions. This species digs, so give it 20 cm (8 in) of substrate in total. Only the top 12 cm needs to be bioactive soil; the 8 cm underneath can be cheaper coco fibre, dampened and packed firm.

Temperature: 26–32°C. Humidity: 30–45%. UVB: Not needed.

What does a large-clawed 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

Defensive pincher with a mild-to-moderate sting; use tongs.

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 large-clawed scorpion bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 30 × 30 cm).

Large-clawed scorpion FAQ

Is the large-clawed scorpion good for beginners?

The large-clawed scorpion is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Defensive pincher with a mild-to-moderate sting; use tongs.

What size enclosure does a large-clawed scorpion 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 large-clawed scorpion cost in Canada?

Typically $40–100 CAD to buy, about $150–260 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $40–90 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a large-clawed scorpion need?

Temperature: 26–32°C. Humidity: 30–45%.

What does a large-clawed 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.