Quick facts
- Also called whip spiders (order Amblypygi)
- No venom, no silk and no stinger. They are harmless to people.
- Very long, thin front legs work as feelers
- Leg span: about 4–10 inches, depending on species
- Lifespan: often 5–10 years
- Difficulty: beginner to intermediate
Enclosure
Tailless whip scorpions climb and hang. Give a tall enclosure, at least 3 times the leg span in height.
Lean cork bark or add a cork background so they can climb and hang upside down. Use a secure lid with mesh for airflow.
Temperature
Room temperature to warm, about 72–82°F.
Lighting & UVB
None needed. They are active at night.
Humidity
These are humid-forest animals. Keep humidity high, about 70–80%. Mist the bark and sides most days.
Substrate
Use 2–4 inches of moist coconut fiber or organic topsoil topped with leaf litter.
Diet & feeding
Feed crickets or roaches about once or twice a week.
Remove uneaten prey within a day. A live cricket can hurt one during a molt.
Water
Keep a shallow dish of fresh water.
Handling
Not a handling pet. They are fast and fragile. If you need to move one, guide it into a cup.
Their spiny grabbing arms can give a small pinch.
Common problems & the vet
If you think something is wrong, find an exotics vet or stop by and ask us.
- They molt hanging upside down. Don't touch, mist hard or feed during a molt.
- Bad molt: usually low humidity or an enclosure that is too short
- Don't feed for about a week after a molt
Questions about your setup? Stop by and ask us.
