Israeli Gold Scorpions, also known as Large Claw Scorpions or Large-Clawed Scorpions, are a species of arachnid native to the Middle East. These fascinating creatures are popular among exotic pet owners for their unique appearance and manageable size, but they do require special care to thrive in captivity. If you’re considering getting an Israeli Gold Scorpion, read on for everything you need to know about caring for these pets.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Scorpio maurus |
| Native Range | Middle East (including Israel, Jordan, and Egypt) |
| Size | 3-4 inches |
| Lifespan | 5-7 years |
| Diet | The varied diet of insects (crickets, roaches, mealworms) dusted with calcium supplement |
| Enclosure | Glass terrarium or plastic tub with a secure lid, substrate depth of at least 3-4 inches, hide, basking area with a heat source, UV light |
| Temperature | 75-85°F, with a basking spot of 90°F |
| Humidity | Moderate, with proper ventilation |
The Israeli Gold Scorpion is a fascinating species of scorpion that can be found in the Middle East, including the sandy regions where the sand scorpion is also commonly found.
What is an Israeli Gold Scorpion?
Israeli Gold Scorpions, also known as Scorpio maurus, are a species of scorpion found in the Middle East, including Israel, Jordan, and Egypt. They are medium-sized scorpions, reaching an average length of 3-4 inches as adults. Their most distinctive feature is their bright golden coloration, which gives them their common name.
In the wild, Israeli Gold Scorpions are nocturnal predators that hunt insects and other small prey. They are burrowers and are often found in sandy or rocky environments. In captivity, they can be housed in a variety of enclosure types, including glass terrariums or plastic tubs. It is important to provide plenty of substrate for burrowing and a hide for the scorpion to retreat to.
The Israeli gold scorpion is a close relative of the lesser brown scorpion, and both species are known for their potent venom.
Considerations for Keeping an Israeli Gold Scorpion as a Pet
Before bringing an Israeli Gold Scorpion into your home, there are a few things to consider.
Suitability for Beginners
As mentioned, Israeli Gold Scorpions are considered a beginner species and are relatively easy to care for compared to some other exotic pets. However, they are still venomous and do require special handling and housing. It’s important to do your research and make sure you are prepared to provide the necessary care before bringing one of these scorpions into your home.
Legal Considerations
It’s important to check the laws and regulations in your area before getting an Israeli Gold Scorpion, or any exotic pet. Some states and countries have laws prohibiting the ownership of certain species or may have specific requirements for housing and care. Be sure to do your due diligence and ensure that you are following all local laws and regulations.
Housing and Enclosure Requirements
Israeli Gold Scorpions should be housed in a secure enclosure with proper ventilation. A glass terrarium or plastic tub with a secure lid is a good choice. The enclosure should be large enough to allow the scorpion plenty of room to move around and explore, with a substrate depth of at least 3-4 inches for burrowing. As a general rule, the enclosure should be at least 3-4 times the length of the scorpion in all dimensions. For example, a 4-inch scorpion should have an enclosure that is at least 12-16 inches long, wide, and tall.
In addition to a heat source, Israeli Gold Scorpions also need a source of ultraviolet (UV) light. This can be provided with a UVB lamp or a full-spectrum bulb. UV light is important for the scorpion’s metabolism and overall health, so it’s crucial to include it in their enclosure. As with the heat source, it’s important to use a thermometer or thermostat to ensure the proper temperature range and avoid overheating or underheating the enclosure.
The Israeli Gold Scorpion is a fascinating species that can be found in the Middle East, along with other scorpions such as the Southern Devil Scorpion.
Israeli Gold Scorpion Care Sheet
Now that you have a suitable enclosure set up for your Israeli Gold Scorpion, it’s time to focus on the specific care needs of these pets. Here are some key points to remember when caring for your Israeli Gold Scorpion:
Diet and Feeding
Israeli Gold Scorpions are opportunistic predators and will eat a variety of insects in the wild. In captivity, they can be fed a varied diet of insects such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms. It’s important to dust the insects with a calcium supplement before feeding them to the scorpion to ensure proper nutrition.
It’s also important to provide a water source for your scorpion. A shallow dish of water can be placed in the enclosure, or you can use a misting system to provide moisture. Scorpions will be drunk from the water dish or from drops of water on the enclosure walls and substrate. Be sure to monitor the water dish and refill it as needed to prevent dehydration.
Temperature and Humidity
As mentioned earlier, Israeli Gold Scorpions require a specific temperature range in their enclosure. It’s important to use a thermometer or thermostat to monitor the temperature and make adjustments as needed. The enclosure should also be properly ventilated to prevent excess humidity. Scorpions are prone to respiratory infections if the enclosure becomes too humid, so it’s crucial to maintain a proper balance.
Enrichment and Handling
Like any pet, Israeli Gold Scorpions need mental and physical stimulation to thrive. Providing a variety of hiding spots and substrate for burrowing can help keep your scorpion active and engaged. You can also offer small toys or objects for the scorpion to explore and interact with. Just be sure to monitor the scorpion while it is playing and remove any small objects that may pose a choking hazard.
As for handling, it’s generally best to let your scorpion come to you on its own terms. Scorpions are sensitive to vibrations and will often approach their owners when they sense movement. When handling your scorpion, be sure to support its body with your hand and avoid squeezing or applying too much pressure. It’s also important to be mindful of the scorpion’s venomous stinger and use caution when handling it.
It’s also important to remember that scorpions are prey animals and may feel threatened when handled. Be sure to approach them slowly and calmly, and never chase or corner a scorpion. With proper handling and care, Israeli Gold Scorpions can make interesting and rewarding pets. Just be sure to do your research and understand the specific needs of this species before bringing one into your home.
My Private Notes
As someone who has kept Israeli Gold Scorpions for over a decade, I’ve learned a few things about what it takes to keep these pets happy and healthy. Here are some tips that might not be obvious to everyone:
- Don’t be afraid to handle your scorpion! While it’s important to be cautious and respect the fact that they are venomous, it’s also important to spend time with your scorpion and get to know its personality. With proper handling, you can build trust and a bond with your scorpion.
- Be sure to keep the enclosure clean and free of excess moisture. Scorpions are prone to respiratory infections if the enclosure becomes too humid, so it’s important to use a thermometer or thermostat to monitor the humidity levels and take action if necessary.
- Offer a variety of insects for your scorpion to eat. Scorpions are opportunistic predators and will eat whatever prey is available, so offering a variety of insects can keep them interested and prevent boredom. Just be sure to dust the insects with a calcium supplement to ensure proper nutrition.
- Don’t skimp on the substrate. Scorpions are burrowers and need plenty of substrates to dig and hide in. A substrate depth of at least 3-4 inches is recommended, and it’s important to choose a substrate that is safe and non-toxic for the scorpion. Coconut coir and sand are good options.
Overall, the key to caring for Israeli Gold Scorpions is to provide a suitable enclosure with the proper temperature, humidity, and substrate, and to offer a varied diet and opportunities for enrichment. With proper care, these scorpions can make interesting and engaging pets that are a joy to keep. Just be sure to do your research and understand the specific needs of this species before bringing one into your home.
People Also Ask
Are Israeli Gold Scorpions Dangerous?
Israeli Gold Scorpions are venomous and do have a stinger, but their venom is generally not considered dangerous to humans. However, a sting from one of these scorpions can still cause pain and swelling, so it's important to use caution when handling them. If you do get stung, seek medical attention as a precaution.
How Big Do Israeli Gold Scorpions Get?
Israeli Gold Scorpions reach an average length of 3-4 inches as adults. This makes them a manageable size for a pet, although they do require a spacious enclosure to accommodate their activity level and need for burrowing.
Can Israeli Gold Scorpions Live Together?
Israeli Gold Scorpions are solitary creatures and do not typically do well when housed together. It's best to house them separately to prevent aggression and ensure each scorpion has its own space and resources. If you do decide to house multiple scorpions together, be sure to provide plenty of hiding spots and substrate for burrowing to reduce the risk of conflict.
Conclusion
Israeli Gold Scorpions are a fascinating and unique species that can make rewarding pets for experienced owners. These creatures require a specific range of temperature and humidity in their enclosure, as well as a varied diet and plenty of substrate for burrowing. It’s important to do your research and make sure you are prepared to provide the necessary care before bringing an Israeli Gold Scorpion into your home. With proper care and handling, these scorpions can make interesting and engaging pets.