Gambian Scorpion
The Gambian scorpion is a large species native to the humid tropical forests and riverside woodlands of West Africa, sharing the sturdy black-brown build and notably thick, powerful pincers of its close relative, the emperor scorpion. It's nocturnal, spending daylight hours tucked into burrows or under cover before emerging at night to hunt. Scorpion venom is weak and a sting causes only local pain, but little is known about this species' defensive behavior, so avoid handling it with bare hands. This imposing, heavy-bodied scorpion has real presence in a collection, but its care requires a keeper with some hands-on experience.
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Apply as a breederGambian Scorpion key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- 6-9 years
- Size
- About 12-20cm total length (range for the genus Pandinus)
- Humidity
- High
- Diet
- Live insects such as crickets
- Temperature & Humidity
- Most species of the genus live in humid tropical lowlands, in rainforest and gallery forest, so keep the enclosure warm and humid and never let the substrate dry out.
- Enclosure
- The genus prefers soft, loamy soils. Provide substrate deep enough to burrow into plus a hide, and leave any burrow intact.
- Diet & Feeding
- Offer live insects such as crickets. The animal pins prey with its heavy pincers.
- Temperament & Venom
- Venom in Scorpionidae is mild; stings cause local pain and no fatalities are known. Its defensive behaviour is not well known, so do not handle it bare-handed.
- Notes
- A CITES Appendix II species: permits are required for import and export. It was listed in 1995 together with P. imperator.
About Gambian Scorpion
A large West African scorpion related to the emperor scorpion, with a sturdy black-brown body and notably thick pincers. The genus Pandinus reaches 12–20 cm, and this species suits experienced keepers.
7 things to know before welcoming a Gambian Scorpion
1Best for Experienced Keepers
This species is generally considered one for experienced keepers. It looks similar to the emperor scorpion, but little is known about its defensive behavior, so it's best to avoid direct handling and use tools like feeding tongs instead.
2Notably Thick Pincers
Its defining feature is a sturdy black-brown body paired with unusually thick, powerful pincers. Because their grip is strong, keep your fingers clear during tank maintenance.
3The Genus Reaches 12–20 cm
The genus Pandinus grows to roughly 12–20 cm in length, and this species is expected to fall within that range. Plan for an enclosure that can accommodate this size as they mature.
4Nocturnal Burrow Dweller
This species rests in burrows or under cover during the day and becomes active at night. Provide a substrate deep enough for burrowing along with a hide to help it feel secure.
5Recreate a West African Habitat
Native to the humid tropical lowland forests and riverside woodlands of West Africa, it does best with warmth and high humidity. Keep the substrate from drying out completely, and ensure adequate ventilation.
6House Them Separately
Scorpions are territorial and can cannibalize one another, so this species should generally be kept one per enclosure. Avoid setting up group housing.
7Prepare Before You Bring One Home
Before your scorpion arrives, have burrowing substrate, a hide, and a reliable source of feeder insects ready to go. Prior experience with a related species like the emperor scorpion can make day-to-day care feel more familiar.
Frequently asked questions about Gambian Scorpion
- Q.Is its venom dangerous?
- A.Scorpion venom is weak, and a sting causes only local pain, with no known human fatalities. However, the grip of its notably thick pincers is strong and little is known about this species' defensive behavior, so handle it calmly and avoid touching it directly.
- Q.Is this scorpion suitable for beginners?
- A.This species is generally considered one for experienced keepers. It's a good idea to gain experience with a related species first before bringing one home.
- Q.How big does it get?
- A.The genus Pandinus reaches roughly 12 to 20 cm in length, and this species is expected to fall within that range.
- Q.Can it be housed with other scorpions?
- A.Solitary housing is generally recommended. Scorpions are territorial and can cannibalize each other, so avoid keeping more than one in the same enclosure.
- Q.How is it different from the emperor scorpion?
- A.It's a close relative of the emperor scorpion and looks quite similar at a glance. Both are listed in CITES Appendix II. The Gambian scorpion is considered better suited to experienced keepers, and because little is known about its defensive behavior, it should be handled with care.
Learn more about Gambian Scorpion in the encyclopedia
View Gambian Scorpion encyclopedia entry →
Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
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