The deathstalker is a pale, slender scorpion of North African and Middle Eastern deserts with a powerful venom. Its venom is also a valuable source of medical research.
Interesting facts
- It is one of the most venomous scorpions in the world.
- Its sting is extremely painful and can be dangerous for children, the elderly and people with health problems.
- Like all scorpions, it glows blue-green under ultraviolet light.
- Scientists now recognise several closely related species that were once grouped together.
- It is pale yellow, blending with desert sand.
- Female scorpions give birth to live young, which ride on their mother’s back.
Behaviour
Deathstalkers are nocturnal and hide under stones or in burrows by day. They ambush prey and use their venom to subdue it.
Breeding and young
Females give birth to live young, which climb onto their mother’s back until their first moult.
Threats and conservation
Not assessed; it is collected for the pet trade and for venom research.
Where to see it
- Negev Desert, Israel, on guided ultraviolet night walks
- Deserts of Egypt and Tunisia
- Insect and invertebrate houses at zoos
- Never handle wild scorpions
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
