Paper wasps are social insects commonly found around homes and other buildings, constructing their distinctive nests under the eaves of roofs, in trees and shrubs, under decking, in pipes and in other suitably sheltered locations. They are most active and prolific during the summer months.
In this week’s venomous creature feature we are sticking with the scorpions. Being the summer months, and after getting some recent rain the scorpions have been active. I have been receiving almost daily requests for identifications, as well as getting regular reports of people being stung, so be sure to read to the end of this article for some useful tips on how to reduce your risk of being stung.
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.
