Red Bark Scorpion aka Tanzanian Bark Scorpion

• Common Name: Red Bark Scorpion; Tanzanian Bark Scorpion
• Scientific Name: Babycurus jacksoni

Natural History

This medium sized species hails from the grasslands and savannahs of Tanzania and several other countries in Eastern and Central Africa. A primarily terrestrial scorpion, Red Bark Scorpions spend most of their time underneath rocks and pieces of fallen wood.

Size and Longevity

This species typically reaches an adult size of 2.5 – 3.5 inches. Tanzanian Red Bark Scorpions grow rapidly. Babies of this species can reach adulthood in 18 months or less when kept at a proper temperature and fed frequently

Housing

Floor space is more important than height to this species as most of its time will be spent on the ground, though it may climb occasionally. A standard ten gallon “long� terrarium will provide plenty of space for one or more adults. It should be noted that it is uncertain how well Red Bark Scorpions do set up communally. If more than one specimen is kept in an enclosure special care should be taken to ensure that there are plenty of hiding places throughout the terrarium, that there is plenty of space, that all specimens are of similar size, and that they are kept well fed to minimize the chance of cannibalism.
Heating and Lighting: Red Bark Scorpions seem to do best at a temperature of 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature can be attained by using under-tank heat pads or ceramic heat emitters. Red Bark Scorpions do well with a humidity level of approximately 70%. Lightly misting the enclosure once weekly is recommended. Substrate and Furnishings: Peat moss or coconut fiber bedding will both work as a bedding for Red Bark Scorpions. Cage furnishings should consist of a shallow water dish (one which the scorpion can easily climb out of), as well as several hiding places such as pieces of cork bark laid on the floor of the terrarium.

Nutrition

This species will eat appropriately sized insects for the duration of their life. 1 to 3 small crickets should be offered to young scorpions weekly while they are growing. As adults Red Bark Scorpions will usually consume 1 prey item weekly.

Handling

While these scorpions seem somewhat reluctant to sting, they can be very fast when startled and likely have a very unpleasant sting. The venom of this species is not known to be as potent as some of its relatives, but very little data is available regarding stings from this species. Due to the lack of information regarding venom toxicity for this species and the varying severity of reactions different people may have to venom, Red Bark Scorpions should be treated with caution and viewed as a purely “hands-off� pet.