Arachnid · Scorpion
Transvaal thick-tailed scorpion care guide
Parabuthus transvaalicus
The transvaal thick-tailed scorpion is a expert-level scorpion from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique. Adults reach Length 10–14 cm and live 5–8 years in captivity. Can spray venom into the eyes as well as sting; wear eye protection when servicing.
- Enclosure 30 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 26–32°C
- Humidity 20–35%
How much does a transvaal thick-tailed scorpion cost in Canada?
Transvaal thick-tailed scorpion quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- Length 10–14 cm
- Lifespan
- 5–8 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 7 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 26–32°C
- Humidity
- 20–35%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
- Bioactive style
- Desert invertebrate
Transvaal thick-tailed 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.
- Soil and sand mix10 cm
Keep it dry with one slightly moistened corner. Desert species are sensitive to stuffy, wet conditions.
Temperature: 26–32°C. Humidity: 20–35%. 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 transvaal thick-tailed 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 transvaal thick-tailed scorpion bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 30 × 30 cm).
Transvaal thick-tailed scorpion FAQ
Is the transvaal thick-tailed scorpion good for beginners?
No – the transvaal thick-tailed 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 transvaal thick-tailed 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 transvaal thick-tailed 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 transvaal thick-tailed scorpion need?
Temperature: 26–32°C. Humidity: 20–35%.
What does a transvaal thick-tailed scorpion eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–3 appropriately sized insects every 7–10 days; remove uneaten prey after 24 hours.
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.