Opistophthalmus glabrifrons (commonly known as the shiny burrow scorpion or the yellow-legged burrowing scorpion) is a large (adult size: 11 - 15 cm) species of burrowing scorpion found in Southern and Eastern Africa.
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Human Stinging
General Info About Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
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Attributes of Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
The Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
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Species Status of Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
It is found in Southern and Eastern Africa.
Distribution Area of Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
Africa
Adult Size of Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
11 - 15 cm
Predators of Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion Larvae
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Youth Habitat of Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
Deserts and Arid Regions
Adult Habitat of Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
Deserts and Arid Regions
How Can You Attract Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
Small insects such as crickets or mealworms, which are commonly used as bait to catch or attract yellow-legged burrowing scorpion.
When is the Best Time to Observe Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
Nocturnal activities make the night the best time to find yellow-legged burrowing scorpion, particularly after dusk when temperatures drop.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
Dry conditions with moderate temperatures are suitable for finding yellow-legged burrowing scorpion, especially in their natural desert or semi-arid habitats.
Are Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion harmful?
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The yellow-legged burrowing scorpion can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.
Are Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion harmful to humans?
All Scorpions have a pair of pliers and venomous stings, which can cause physical wounds and inject venom into the "uninvited guest". Scorpion stings can cause serious adverse reactions, but rarely endanger human lives. Of the more than 1,700 species of scorpions known worldwide, only about 30 can produce deadly venom.
Common manifestations after being stung by Scorpions are:
Wound swelling
Severe pain
Local paralysis
Restlessness
Stings can cause allergic reactions in children, the elderly, and those who have been stung by scorpions, including: dizziness, vomiting, sweating, muscle twitching, urticaria, fast heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. Such allergic reactions are usually more dangerous and deadly than venom.
Harmful Effects of Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion
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Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Human Stinging
Toxic to Humans
Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion juveniles and adults utilize a sting in defense and preying, secreting neurotoxins. For humans, the sting causes mild effects, generally localized pain and swelling. Severe reactions, although rare, could include muscle cramps and heart palpitations, typically with no long-term consequences.
Toxic to Animals
The organism yellow-legged burrowing scorpion has a mild level of venom toxicity, which it delivers through its sting. While the sting causes discomfort, it is rarely dangerous to humans. Symptoms may include localized pain, swelling, and redness around the sting site. Moreover, other mammals such as dogs and cats, and animals such as rats may also experience similar reactions, varying in intensity according to the individual's size and sensitivity to the venom. Although the toxin is used for both offensive and defensive purposes, fatal incidents are uncommon due to its low toxicity.
Does the Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion sting humans?
Yellow-legged burrowing scorpion only stings in self-defense when threatened by humans, with impacts ranging from mild to severe discomfort. As with many scorpions, yellow-legged burrowing scorpion has a venomous sting, but stinging can be costly to the animal's energy reserves. Stinging behavior varies by gender and age, with larger individuals often having a more potent sting.