Southern devil scorpion (Vaejovis carolinianus)
Photo: Sesamehoneytart / CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Arachnid · Scorpion

Southern devil scorpion care guide

Vaejovis carolinianus

Beginner

The southern devil scorpion is a beginner-level scorpion from SE USA. Adults reach Length 3–5 cm and live 3–5 years in captivity. Small woodland species; bark, leaf litter and slightly damp soil suit it.

  • Enclosure 30 × 20 × 20 cm
  • Temp 21–26°C
  • Humidity 60–70%

How much does a southern devil scorpion cost in Canada?

Animal$15–40Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$130–230Enclosure $30–60 · equipment $40–100 · bioactive supplies ≈ $60
Yearly upkeep$30–60Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$170–330All prices CAD, estimates

Southern devil scorpion quick facts

Skill level
Beginner
Adult size
Length 3–5 cm
Lifespan
3–5 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
SE USA
Minimum enclosure
30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
21–26°C
Humidity
60–70%
UVB
Not needed
Diet
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
Bioactive style
Tropical invertebrate

Southern devil scorpion enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a tropical invertebrate bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Tarantula Mix8 cm

Keep the soil evenly moist and dig-friendly; a cork slab pressed onto the soil gives a ready-made scrape.

Temperature: 21–26°C. Humidity: 60–70%. UVB: Not needed.

What does a southern devil scorpion eat?

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

Handling, temperament & health

Small and shy with a mild sting; still best moved with a cup.

Health watch: Watch for dehydration, mites and mould; good ventilation and a shallow water dish prevent most problems.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Visual check.

Weekly

  • Feed; remove leftovers.
  • Mist one side and keep the water dish full.

Monthly

  • Top up leaf litter.

Yearly

  • Refresh the top soil if it compacts.

Recommended for a southern devil scorpion bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 20 × 20 cm).

Southern devil scorpion FAQ

Is the southern devil scorpion good for beginners?

Yes – the southern devil scorpion is a good choice for beginners. Small and shy with a mild sting; still best moved with a cup.

What size enclosure does a southern devil scorpion need?

At least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (about 12 × 8 × 8 inches, roughly 3 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a southern devil scorpion cost in Canada?

Typically $15–40 CAD to buy, about $130–230 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $30–60 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a southern devil scorpion need?

Temperature: 21–26°C. Humidity: 60–70%.

What does a southern devil scorpion eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–3 small crickets or roach nymphs 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.