Striped Bark Scorpion aka Texas Bark Scorpion

• Common Name(s): Striped Bark Scorpion; Texas Bark Scorpion
• Scientific Name: Centruroides vittatus

Natural History

Striped Bark Scorpions inhabit a great deal of North America ranging from New Mexico to Illinois. This species typically inhabits grasslands and prairies and is found in desert habitat in Texas. Hiding in crevices and underneath leaf litter and pieces of bark and wood, this species does not burrow and is relatively active compared to other species of scorpion.

Size and Longevity

Striped Bark Scorpions typically reach a size of between 2 and 2.5 inches. A lifespan of 4 to 5 years is probably average for this scorpion though longevity records are unavailable.

Housing

Unlike most scorpions, Bark Scorpions will typically live communally without problems. A standard ten gallon long terrarium will accommodate a colony of these scorpions that frequently breed in captivity.

Heating and Lighting: Texas Bark Scorpions do well at temperatures of roughly 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. In many areas this species can be kept at room temperature during much of the year. During the winter an appropriately sized under tank heating pad or ceramic heat emitter may be used to keep the temperature within the desired range.

Substrate and Furnishings: This species does well with a humidity level of 60 – 80% so misting may not be necessary though lightly misting part of the cage once weekly may prove beneficial. Substrate can consist of coconut fiber or sand mixed with peat moss. A shallow water dish should be provided along with stacks of cork bark or other hiding spots with plenty of crevices that the scorpion can hide in

Nutrition

This species typically will eat 1 or 2 crickets weekly as adults. Young of this species will consume 3 or 4 pinhead crickets weekly or wingless fruit flies.

Handling

Texas Bark Scorpions are a fast species that are quick to sting when disturbed. While this species isn’t considered dangerously venomous, their sting is reportedly quite painful. Handling is not recommended.