Arizona Desert Hairy Scorpion

Hadrurus arizonensis

ScorpionbeginnerVenom: Mild

Venom note

Sting comparable to a hornet. Defensive — quick to tail-up when disturbed.

About

Arizona Desert Hairy Scorpion — the largest scorpion in North America and one of the most popular desert species in the hobby. Needs deep, packable substrate (a sand/clay mix or the commercial 'excavator clay' products) so its burrows don't collapse. A shallow water dish is essential despite the arid biome. Solitary — do not house communally.

Taxonomy

FamilyHadruridae

GenusHadrurus

Native regionSouthwestern US, northern Mexico (Sonoran + Mojave deserts)

TypeFossorial

Temperamentdefensive

Size & growth

Adult size5-7 inches

Length130.00–180.00 mm

Growth ratemedium

Climate

Temperature75–95 °F

Humidity30–50%

Enclosure

Juvenile size6x6x6"

Adult size12x12x12" / 10-gallon equivalent

SubstrateSand + clay mix (so burrows hold shape), kept dry with a damp corner

Substrate depth6-8 inches

Water dishRequired

Feeding

Feeding modePredator (live prey)

Prey sizeRoaches, crickets, occasional larger prey

Juvenile cadenceTwice per week

Adult cadenceOnce every 1-2 weeks

Times kept: 0