False Karoo Burrower

A smaller burrowing scorpion of around 7 cm with the tail extended. It is dark brown colour with light yellow or beige legs.

Full name: False Karoo Burrower (Opistophthalmus austerus)

Classification: MILDLY VENOMOUS

Map indicating distribution of the False Karoo Burrower in Southern Africa

A smaller burrowing scorpion of around 7 cm with the tail extended. It is dark brown colour with light yellow or beige legs. The body is glossy. The head is russet-brown from the eyes to the mouth parts. The pincers are golden.

It is common throughout the Karoo, often at higher elevations and found under rocks in shallow burrows. It is also active on warm nights. It may be confused with other Burrower Scorpions.

The sting of this species may cause pain but is not medically important.

African Snakebite Institute