Hairy Thicktail Scorpion

One of the largest scorpions of the genus of around 18 cm in length with the tail extended. In South Africa they are usually dark brown or black but may have yellow legs in Namibia.

Full name: Hairy Thicktail Scorpion (Parabuthus villosus)

Classification: VENOMOUS

One of the largest scorpions of the genus of around 18 cm in length with the tail extended. In South Africa they are usually dark brown or black but may have yellow legs in Namibia.

This species has visible hairs on the tail and body that are usually lighter brown. It lives under rocks, but unlike other scorpions, can also be found active during the day. It is known from the Orange River Valley in South Africa, going north into Namibia. It is similar to the Granulated Thicktail Scorpion but has obvious hairs.

The sting of this species causes pain and should be treated in a hospital. Antivenom is not effective for the sting of this species.

Map showing distribution of the Hairy Thicktail Scorpion in Southern Africa.
African Snakebite Institute