Common emperor scorpion

Pandinus imperator

Emperor scorpions live in the rainforests of West Africa. It is one of the largest scorpions in the world. It is a carnivore.

Emperor scorpion behavior and facts

  • Adults eat ground-dwelling insects and small animals; young eat fruit flies and small crickets.
  • Their venom is mild.
  • Emperor scorpions hunt at night. They use sensory hairs on their body to make up for poor vision.
  • Scorpions defend themselves against predators with their large claws.
  • Emperor scorpions rarely burrow, but instead hide under logs or rocks.

From birth to death

  • Lifespan: 5 to 8 years in captivity
  • Vital statistics
  • Length: 10 to 12 inches

Status

  • Endangered per CITES Appendix II.

Scorpions, the Oregon Zoo and you

Emperor scorpions live in the Insect Zoo. They eat beetles, crickets and mealworms.

Emperor scorpions are popular pets.