Emperor Scorpion

Scientific Name: Pandinus imperator, commonly known as the Emperor Scorpion. Their scientific name means Terrible Forest Emperor.

Description: Emperor scorpions are one of the largest and heaviest species of scorpion in the world, spanning 20 cm (almost 8 inches) when fully grown. These nocturnal arachnids are known for their shiny black exterior and huge pinchers called pedipalps. Emperor scorpions have the largest pedipalps in comparison to their size of any scorpion. Scientists believe this is why their venom is so mild- they are more likely to use their pedipalps for protection than their sting. Although they have numerous pairs of eyes, scorpions can’t see very well. Instead, they have hair-like structures called pectines behind their limbs that help to sense the characteristics of the terrain. One way to determine if an emperor is a male or female is the size of their pectines, as males have larger sets. Similar to most other scorpions, emperors are fluorescent under UV lights!

Behavior: Despite their big and scary appearance, emperor scorpions are a relatively timid species, which is what makes them such popular pets. Usually, an emperor scorpion will flee rather than fight if threatened, but will defend themself with their stinger if necessary. When confronted with prey, however, these scorpions prefer to attack with their pedipalps instead of using their mild venom. 

Emperors can live between 5 and 8 years in captivity, but typically average less in the wild. Once a scorpion matures at around 4 years old, they are old enough to reproduce, which may lead to females eating their partners after mating. A 9 month gestation period brings 10 to 12 baby scorplings, and a very defensive mother. Scorplings are carried on their mothers backs until they are old enough to survive on their own. Emperors are a social species of scorpion, and often live in colonies of around a dozen individuals. 

Diet: An emperor scorpion feeds on smaller insects and arachnids, but may even prey on small vertebrates like lizards or mice as adults.

Range & Habitat:  Native to the tropical rainforests and savannas of West Central Africa..

Conservation: Fortunately, this species is not listed as threatened. However, illegal pet trades are a very real threat for emperor scorpions. Unethical practices like catching scorpions from the wild to breed or sell is harmful to their natural populations, as well as the stability of their ecosystems.

How you can help: Ensuring your pets are obtained from legal and ethical sources is the first step! Responsible pet ownership is key to maintaining a healthy standing for all animals, including emperor scorpions.