The emperor scorpion (Pandinus imperator) is a species of scorpion native to Africa. The emperor is one of the largest species of scorpion in the world, with adults averaging about 8 inches in length. Their life span usually ranges from 5-8 years while they are held in captivity [1], but is likely shorter in the wild. The emperor's size, relatively low toxicity, and life span make it the most popular scorpion in the pet trade, which has led to such over-collecting in the wild that it is now a CITES listed animal, meaning it is threatened with extinction if exportation and other threats, such as development, are not regulated.
In the wild, emperor scorpions are reported to feed primarily on termites. In captivity they readily feed on crickets, cockroaches, and mealworms. Emperors are burrowing scorpions, digging with the first or first two pairs of legs. A burrow may be little more than a hollow under a rock or may twist and turn more than six feet into the earth. In the wild emperors are said to burrow into termite mounds and make their homes there.
Emperor scorpions are preyed upon by a huge number of animals, including other scorpions, spiders, parasitic wasps and flies; birds, reptiles and amphibians; mammals such as monkeys, mongooses, various rodents, and even humans.
