scorpions as pets

[LISA127]

Hi. I have a question. My nephew, who is 15, bought a scorpion as a pet without my sister knowing. Now that she has found it in his room, she has called me wanting to know information about them. I know nothing about scorpions since I do not like invertebrates. So can anyone tell me what she wants to know? Are they dangerous as pets? What happens if someone is stung? Thanks.

[Invictus]

If it's an Emperor scorpion, the only major risk is if you are allergic. A good rule of thumb is, if you're allergic to insect bites, you're probably allergic to a scorpion sting. Most people who are stung by an emperor don't even need medical attention.

Emperors, though among the largest scorps, have the least dangerous venom of any scorp. Additionally, they are a calm breed, and will almost never sting if they are handled properly.

That aside, just do a google search. Scorpion caresheets are easy to find.

[Kyle Barker]

Everything depends on species.

[Tim and Julie B]

Flatrocks are even less toxic then Emperors. It is probably an Emp since they are the most comman in petstores. Nothing to worry about. Scorps are great! :D

[reptilesalonica]

Emperors are very interesting as pets. I own various herps since 1996 and only the last 3 months i had scorpions. I have 3 adults and i waste many hours observing their behaviour!
Nothing to worry about if your nephew start to grab them by the tail then they will soon won't be afraid any more and won't try to stung.

[Kyle Barker]

I would be more worried about the pincers on those guys...OUCH!

[Invictus]

Indeed... especially when they get to their full length (Which can be 8-10 inches!!!), those pincers could take off the end of your finger NO problem.

[Darlene]

If you go back further in this forum through the "profiles of the week" by "Ottawa Chris" you will find that he has one on the emperor scorpion. IMHO this is the best care & info sheet you will find. Am also hoping that he does the flatrock scorpion soon. Hope this helps you out. Dar.

[liltattyprinces]

i have a rescued emperor scorpion he's not nice but most usally are, mines just had some really bad owners i have handled him and been stung and pinched i am allergic to stings and spider bites but as long as i get a antihistimine (sp) into me i'm fine i do get a much worse reacton than others do, but they are harmeless little guys their pinchers are the worst part