Scorpions, fascinating arachnids, reproduce by giving live birth, meaning young develop inside the mother’s body before emerging. Identifying a pregnant scorpion can be challenging, as external signs are not always obvious, but careful observation of physical and behavioral changes can provide strong indications.
Recognizable Physical Changes
A primary indicator of pregnancy is a noticeable distention or swelling of the scorpion’s abdomen, specifically the mesosoma. As embryos grow, the female’s body expands, making her appear significantly fuller. Her abdominal segments may stretch apart, revealing the intersegmental (pleural) membranes as whitish or pale areas between the exoskeleton plates. This exposure is a reliable sign of gravidity. In later stages, outlines of developing embryos may even shimmer through these stretched membranes.
Observing these changes requires viewing the scorpion from both above and the side. A pregnant female will appear more robust and heavier than usual. Her body shape takes on a more rounded or “filled-out” appearance, rather than the streamlined look of a non-gravid individual. This physical transformation progresses throughout gestation, which varies significantly by species and can last several months.
Behavioral Patterns
Beyond physical alterations, a pregnant scorpion may exhibit distinct behavioral changes. Females often become more reclusive, spending increased time hidden within their burrows or preferred shelters. This increased desire for seclusion helps them find a safe, undisturbed environment for giving birth and protecting offspring. They might even attempt to barricade the entrance to their hide.
Aggression levels can also shift as gestation progresses, with some gravid females displaying heightened territoriality. This aggression may be directed towards other scorpions or potential threats, as the female prepares to defend her brood. Some pregnant scorpions may become irritable, refusing food or killing prey without consuming it, while others continue to feed regularly until shortly before birth. Pregnant females may also be slower to react and more likely to sting as their mobility is reduced.
Post-Birth Observations
The most definitive confirmation of pregnancy comes after birth, with the appearance of scorplings (baby scorpions). Immediately after emerging, these tiny, pale, and often translucent young climb onto their mother’s back. They cling to her carapace, forming a cluster that can number from one to over a hundred, depending on the species.
This “piggyback” behavior is crucial for scorpling survival, as their soft exoskeletons make them vulnerable to predators and desiccation. The mother provides protection and transportation until their first molt, when their exoskeletons harden enough for them to venture independently. This period typically lasts 10 to 20 days, though some species may keep their young for around 50 days.
Differentiating from Other Conditions
It is important to distinguish a pregnant scorpion from one that appears “fat” due to other reasons. The most common alternative is engorgement from a recent, large meal. A scorpion that has consumed a large amount of prey will also exhibit a distended abdomen.
However, swelling caused by a large meal is temporary and subsides within a few days as food is digested. Unlike pregnancy, engorgement usually does not result in the stretching of intersegmental membranes that reveals whitish pleural tissue. Observing the scorpion over a few days can help differentiate these conditions; if the distention persists and is accompanied by visible membrane stretching, pregnancy is more likely.