How to Identify an Emperor Scorpion

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff | 12 References

Updated: April 27, 2019

Explore this Article Recognizing Physical Features Observing Common Habits Distinguishing Emperor Scorpions From Other Species Article Summary Questions & Answers Related Articles

The Emperor scorpion (Pandinus imperator), sometimes called the imperial scorpion, is native to West Africa. Its impressive look and relatively mild behavior make it a popular pet. However, there are over 1500 known varieties of scorpions, and likely more that have not been discovered, so become familiar with the characteristics of Emperor scorpions in order to correctly identify them.

Recognizing Physical Features

  1. 1
    Learn the coloring. Emperor scorpions are generally dark in color, with a shiny exoskeleton. They are often described as black, though they may also range from a dark blue-green to brown. The stingers and claws can be reddish.[1]
  2. 2
    Take note of the size. Emperor scorpions are relatively large in size, often approximately 8 inches (20 cm) long. This is about the size of an adult’s hand.
  3. 3
    Observe the physical features. The two pedipalps (pincers or claws) of Emperor scorpions appear quite large. The scorpions will have six smaller legs behind these. Like other scorpions, the Emperor species has a long tail (telson) that ends in a stinger.
    • Emperor scorpions have larger pectines (sensory organs) behind their limbs, which look like combs. These are larger in males than in females.[2]
    • Emperor scorpions will molt frequently, which may change their body features or coloring slightly. After molting, their exoskeleton is very soft and can be easily damaged.
  4. 4
    Gauge the weight. If you hold or pick up an Emperor scorpion, you may be surprised at its heft. Adults can weigh around an ounce (30 g).[3]
    • Don’t handle a scorpion unless you know that it is a relatively safe species. Even species kept as pets, like Emperor scorpions, can become aggressive when threatened or handled.
  5. 5
    View the scorpion in UV light. Like other scorpions, the Emperor species glows a fluorescent blue-green when seen in UV light. While this will not help you definitively identify a particular scorpion as an Emperor, it can help you distinguish it from pseudo-scorpions like whip scorpions and other species.[4]

Observing Common Habits

  1. 1
    Observe the scorpion’s eating habits. Emperor scorpions will typically eat insects and other arthropods, including mealworms, crickets, cockroaches, etc. In addition, they will eat small animals like worms, mice, lizards and snakes.
    • Emperor scorpions do not attack their food with their stingers. Instead, they crush food with their claws.[5]
  2. 2
    Identify the scorpion’s habitat. If you are observing a scorpion in the wild, you may be able to narrow down its species by considering its habitat. Emperor scorpions are native to West Africa (in areas like Nigeria, Togo, Sierra Leone, Ghana and the Congo region). They prefer hot and humid forests, and like to be near leaf debris, bark, and termite mounds.
    • In the wild or in captivity, Emperor scorpions may live communally in small groups.
  3. 3
    Study the scorpion’s activity. Emperor scorpions are basically nocturnal creatures, and will be more active at night. They will move about on the ground, but will sometimes burrow under rocks and logs.[6]
  4. 4
    Take note of the scorpion’s reactions. Despite their fearsome appearance, Emperor scorpions are quite timid. If provoked, they will most likely first try to get away. They will only attack and sting if harassed.[7]

Distinguishing Emperor Scorpions From Other Species

  1. 1
    Compare the black scorpion. Like Emperor scorpions, black scorpions can be very dark in color. However, they are only about 4 inches (10cm) long and are native to tropical Asian forests. Their venom is non-lethal to most humans.[8]
  2. 2
    Learn what bark scorpions are like. Bark scorpions, also called blue scorpions, are widespread in North and South America and in parts of Africa. As their names suggest, they prefer to be near barks and stones, and are blue-black in color. Their venom is non-lethal to most humans, but can be painful.[9]
  3. 3
    Stay away from sand scorpions. Native to the Southwestern United States and parts of Northern Mexico, scorpions are sandy-colored (yellowish to brown). They are venomous, but not dangerous.[10]
  4. 4
    Avoid Red scorpions. These scorpions are native to India, Pakistan, and Nepal. They are orangish-red in color, and up to approximately 3.5 inches in length (9 cm). Their sting can be deadly if untreated, and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, hypertension, and heart failure. If you see a scorpion of this color, it is best to stay away[11]
  5. 5
    Beware the Death stalker scorpion. This species of scorpion is native to the Middle East and North Africa, and is often found in sandy and desert environments. They are relatively large, about 3 to 4 inches long (8 to 11 cm), and yellowish in color. One of the most venomous scorpions, its sting can cause an elevated heart rate, convulsions, fever, and coma. These symptoms can cause complications including heart or respiratory failure.[12]

Community Q&A

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  • Question
    What kinds of scorpions are dangerous?
    Community Answer
    There are many types of scorpions in the world, and there are a ton that are capable of harming you. Listing them all would take hours.
  • Question
    When I crush a scorpion, what is the black ooze that comes out of their tail?
    Community Answer
    That is probably a mix of their innards and the venom that they inject into their victims. You shouldn't crush scorpions unless you absolutely have to though.
  • Question
    Can scorpions go on a carpet?
    Top Answerer
    Yes, but make sure no one steps on it.
  • Question
    Can a scorpion climb bed poles?
    Community Answer
    Yes, they can. They can also climb on roofs. Be careful and inspect areas such as your bed at night.
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    • Even relatively mild scorpions can cause a painful sting, similar to a bee sting. Always be cautious when observing or handling scorpions, especially if you are prone to allergic reactions.

    Article SummaryX

    To identify an emperor scorpion, look for a scorpion with a dark, shiny exoskeleton and reddish stingers and claws. You should also be on the lookout for a large scorpion, since emperors are often about 8 inches long, or the size of your hand. You’ll be most likely to spot an emperor scorpion in the wild in West Africa in hot and humid forests. It’s also easier to find emperor scorpions at night, since they’re nocturnal and like to burrow under rocks and logs during the day. To learn how to distinguish an emperor scorpion from other types of scorpion, read on!

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    Categories: Spiders and Other Arachnids

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