Emperor scorpion

Emperor scorpion

We are delighted that Markus Hardt has taken over the sponsorship of the emperor scorpion (Pandinus imperator).

Emperor scorpions are native to the tropical rainforests and wet savannahs of West and Central Africa. Some representatives reach a body length of up to 21 cm - making emperor scorpions one of the largest scorpion species in the world. Our godfather scorpion measures around 13 cm from the head to the tip of the outstretched "tail".

The emperor scorpions, which sometimes live in groups, use their powerful claws to dig burrows from which they break open at night to prey on termites, other insects and arthropods and sometimes also smaller vertebrates. In contrast to many other scorpions, they use their venomous sting relatively rarely, mostly using their impressive claws.

Despite their dangerous appearance, emperor scorpions are naturally rather reserved, which is why they are also popular "pets". Only when they can no longer flee in dangerous situations and feel cornered do they adopt a defensive posture and prepare to use their sting. Although the sting of an emperor scorpion is painful for humans, the venom is largely harmless.