Welcome to a series of articles on many things poisonous.
There are in the region of one hundred and fifty scorpion species found in southern Africa, the vast majority of which are not dangerous to people or considered medically significant. It can be challenging to identify scorpions to the species level. However, as a rule of thumb, scorpions with thick tails and small pincers are more venomous.
The most venomous species belong to the genus Parabuthus. Two species of Parabuthus scorpions are known to occur locally in the Hoedspruit area, the Mozambique thicktail (Parabuthus mossambicensis) and the Transvaal thicktail scorpion (Parabuthus transvaalicus).
The Transvaal thicktail scorpion is a highly venomous species, and is very common in Hoedspruit and the surrounding areas. They are large scorpions reaching up to 150 mm in length with the tail extended. Their body colouration varies from dark brown to uniform black, and the small pincers or pedipalps are lighter in colour. Males are smaller than females and have more rounded or bulbous pincers.
As their name suggests they have large thick tails, and possess potent venom and anyone stung should seek medical attention immediately. Fatalities have been recorded; young children and the elderly are at greater risk.
There is antivenom available and it is effective in treating envenomation. Interestingly this species is one of relatively few scorpion species that has the ability to spray its venom as a defensive strategy.
This scorpion prefers a bushveld habitat and can be found sheltering under logs, rocks, woodpiles, leaf litter and other debris. They prey upon a variety of insects and other small invertebrates. Their range extends throughout much of Limpopo province, west into Botswana, southern Zimbabwe, and eastwards into southern Mozambique.
Sting prevention
As we head into the summer months scorpions become more active, foraging mostly at night looking for prey or a mate. They often inadvertently enter buildings and may also be found around outside lights where they hunt the insects attracted by the light.
By taking some basic precautionary measures it is possible to greatly reduce your risk of being stung. There are really quite simple habits to get used to; always use a torch when walking around at night and wear closed shoes. Shake out shoes before putting them on, particularly if they have been left outside for any length of time. Always be conscious of where you are placing your hands. Whether it is grabbing some wood off the wood pile for your Friday afternoon braai, or moving those storage boxes in the garage, wearing gloves when performing these kinds of tasks will offer an additional layer of protection. Remember to shake out any items of clothing, towels, bags or any other kind of materials that may have been left lying on the ground. Keep doors and screen doors closed particularly at night to prevent scorpions from entering your home. There are often gaps under doors and it beneficial to fit aluminum door seals (draft stoppers) with the rubber strip to prevent scorpions and snakes from entering under the door. We live in an area where many homes and lodges have outdoor entertainment areas. It is advisable to always thoroughly check patio furniture before use.
For more information on venomous animals, awareness training and talks as well as a professional 24hrs problem snake rescue service, contact the author at Wildlife Safety Solutions: 073 934 6156; info@wildlifesafetysolutions.co.za; www.wildlifesafetysolutions.co.za.
