How to Tell When a Scorpion Is Going to Molt

Molting is one of the most dangerous points in a scorpion's life. When a scorpion molts, it is growing a new exoskeleton beneath its old one, so it sheds most of its old exoskeleton. According to the website ArachnoPets, when this shedding process is complete, a lighter and fragile new skin will be all the scorpion has to protect itself. It is important to recognize when your pet scorpion is likely to molt so you can remove other pets or live crickets from its enclosure to prevent them from harming your scorpion.

Instructions

    • 1

      Observe your scorpion on a daily basis so you will recognize its normal appearance and notice any abnormalities. If this is your first scorpion, keep a journal or log on its daily activities.

    • 2

      Watch your pet scorpion's normal food intake. This would be another detail to record in your log. Scorpions sometimes lose their appetites when preparing to molt. If it isn't eating crickets, speak to a local exotic pet expert. Your pet may require a different food when getting ready to molt.

    • 3

      Look for decreased energy. Molting is strenuous, so scorpions often become inactive -- even standing still for up to 24 hours -- before they begin molting. If you notice your pet is getting sluggish, remove it from contact with other animals until you are sure whether it's getting ready to molt.

    • 4

      Watch to see if your scorpion is trying to hide for protection while it's vulnerable. Make sure your pet has hiding places inside its enclosure.