Their social behavior is not well understood, unfortunately. They get along usually, if all raised together (female with young)..in the wild, males would also be present. But things change in captivity; also, after a period of separation it can be risky to reintroduce. Even among groups that get along, adults stimulated by the presence of food sometimes grab youngsters and consume them. Best to raise the young ones separately…they may be fine for weeks, then one will be eaten, etc. Best, Frank

Incandescent bulbs http://www.thatpetplace.com/spot-day-white-bulbs may be used by day; ceramic heaters http://bitly.com/NSUMSq or red/black reptile “night bulbs” http://bitly.com/MS35s9 are useful after dark. InfraRed can be used as a heat source, but be aware that heat will built up rapidly in small enclosures, watch for fire hazards and over-drying of the enclosure. Best, Frank

Emperor Scorpion venom is not considered to be dangerous to people; however, there is always the chance of an allergic reaction. If a person is allergic to a compound in the venom (scorpion venom is very complex) then a serious reaction or even death could occur, just as sometimes happens with bee or wasp stings.

In regions with many different types of scorpions (or venomous snakes), children are often taught to avoid and/or fear all species. This is generally a safer route than learning to identify dangerous/harmless species. This holds true, I have seen, in much of South America, and I believe in parts of Africa as well. Here in the USA, people in the Northeast, where there are only 3 venomous species (all rare and easy to identify), there is not very much fear of snakes. In the rural parts of the south, where there are a number of venomous snake (and scorpions), many people fear and/or kill all on sight. I always advise people never to touch scorpions with bare hands, no matter what species is involved. Enjoy, good luck and please keep me posted..very interesting for readers in US to have your thoughts and reports from Liberia. best regards, Frank

In captivity, they can reach adult size by age 10-12 months, and are often ready to breed at 12-14 months. however this varies greatly, and is affected by diet, temperature, stress levels and even the origin of the scorpions or their ancestors…they have a wide natural range, and different wild populations grow at different rates. Some wild populations are believed to take 4-7 years to reach sexual maturity.

Please let me know if you need more info, enjoy, Frank