Entomology Tip: How to Preserve a Scorpion

At Cedarwood Outdoor School, we believe that creation is worth studying—not just from afar, but up close. One of the most fascinating (and glowing!) creatures we encounter on desert walks is the scorpion. Though feared by many, these resilient creatures are marvels of God’s design. In this hands-on guide, we’ll walk you through the ethical and scientific process of preserving a scorpion in epoxy resin—a powerful way to study, display, and appreciate the intricacies of invertebrate life.

This activity is ideal for advanced students, homeschool families, or naturalists seeking to blend fieldwork, science, and creativity. Follow along step-by-step to ensure the process is safe, respectful, and rewarding.

Step 1: Ethical Capture

Begin by searching for scorpions at night with a UV flashlight—they glow brightly under ultraviolet light. Wearing gloves and using long forceps or tongs, gently guide your specimen into a ventilated plastic container. Always treat wild animals with caution and care, and avoid unnecessary disturbance to the ecosystem.

Step 2: Humane Euthanasia

There are two accepted methods:

- Freezing: Place the container in the freezer for 12–24 hours.
- Acetone Kill Jar: Place the scorpion in a sealed jar with an acetone-soaked cotton ball for 10–15 minutes.

Both methods are considered humane for invertebrates, and the choice depends on your situation and preference. Be sure the specimen is fully deceased before moving on.

Step 3: Preservation in Alcohol

Place the scorpion in a jar of 70–90% isopropyl alcohol or ethanol for 3–7 days. Both are effective for preventing internal decay and preserving body integrity before casting.

Step 4: Drying and Positioning

After its alcohol bath, gently pat the scorpion dry and leave it to air-dry for several days. You can pose the legs and tail using pins and a Styrofoam block if you'd like to give it a natural or defensive posture.

Step 5: Casting in Epoxy Resin

Now for the fun part—turning your preserved scorpion into a permanent specimen!

- Use a clear two-part epoxy resin (like ArtResin).
- Pour a thin base layer into your silicone mold and let it cure until tacky.
- Carefully place the dried scorpion on the resin and pour additional layers slowly.
- Use a heat gun to remove bubbles between layers.
- Let it cure fully—usually 24 to 72 hours.

Once cured, you’ll have a crystal-clear block that not only preserves your specimen but becomes a beautiful educational tool or display piece.

Pro Tips for Success:

- A pressure pot can help eliminate bubbles for a glass-like finish.
- Make sure the scorpion is completely dry before casting—moisture causes fogging or decay.
- Always use gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when handling resins or solvents.

Why We Do This

Preserving a scorpion in resin isn’t just a science project—it’s a way to engage thoughtfully with God’s creation. When done ethically and carefully, it provides students with a unique opportunity to observe the intricate design and purpose behind even the smallest of creatures. Scorpions, though often overlooked or feared, reflect the creativity and intentionality of their Maker.

Through this hands-on process, students not only learn practical skills, but they also gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of the natural world and the sovereignty of the God who designed it. At Cedarwood, we see outdoor education as a way to cultivate wisdom, curiosity, and worship—not of nature itself, but of the One who spoke it into existence.