Fattail Scorpion

Fattail Scorpion

Introduction

One of the most dangerous of all species is the Fattail Scorpion. In many cultures this Scorpion is referred to as the man killer. This is due to the fact that so many people did die once they were stung by it.

Description

They are fairly small with an full grown size of about 4 inches. The females are bigger than the males. The tail on this Scorpion is very fat and that is where the name comes from. This particular Scorpion offers a very strong venom. They don’t look very concrete like other species do. Instead, you can somewhat see through them like they are made from plastic for a toy.

Distribution

Africa is the main location for this species of Scorpion. They are very wide spread around the Middle East as well. They are found in areas of Algeria, Egypt, India, and Turkey to name a few of them.

They tend to avoid humid locations. They prefer the dry areas that get very warm. They will stay in the cool areas though to avoid the sunlight which can make them very sensitive.

Behavior

Many people believe this to be one of the most dangerous of all Scorpions. Even though they become more aggressive in captivity, many people want to own one as a pet. They love the idea that it is something unique and even scary that they can own. Due to the powerful venom though it is illegal in many locations.

This particular species of Scorpion is known to inhabit brick homes and those with crawlspaces. They can be very hard to eradicate too due to the fact that they don’t seem to be bothered by pesticides even at high levels.

Diet /Feeding

They feed on a variety of different insects with the main course being crickets. In captivity they seem to do very well living on meal worms. They are avid hunters and will seek out prey rather than waiting around hoping it will show up.

They are nocturnal so they will be out hunting at night. Due to the powerful venom they can immediately start to consume their prey. The venom has enzymes in it that turns the internal part of the prey into a liquid substances. Scorpions aren’t able to consume anything solid so they have to suck out what they can from the prey once the venom has gone to work.

Reproduction

The courtship of mating for the male and female is very complex. It can take several days for them to reach this point. If the female isn’t happy with the efforts she may make him leave. If he refuses she will end it by eating him.

When mating does occur it will be several months before she gives birth to the young. It can range from 4 to 6 months. There can be very few or many of them born at once ( 40 to 90 is the average). They will climb up her legs and cling to her back. That is where they will stay until they go through the first molting period in a few weeks. If they don’t leave when she wants them to she may consume them as well.

Venomous Bite /Danger to Humans

There are several deaths reported annually due to the sting from the Fattail Scorpion. Due to this fact there is a very powerful anti venom in place. Most medical facilities in locations where they have been identified have it on hand. However, the long term effects could include recurring headaches, fatigue, and a lost of feeling in the limbs. More human deaths have been reported due to this Scorpion than any other in the world.