The Tree Creeping Scorpion (Opistacanthus asper), is a medium sized scorpion, average 65mm to 85mm in length, attaining 70mm in other areas. Colouration black with pale legs and sting. Asper refers to the course granulations on the pincers. A very common scorpion, they shelter off the ground in cracks in trees, under loose bark.
The Olive Lessor Thick-Tail Scorpion (Uroplectes olivaceous), is asSmall scorpion with an average length between 40mm to 50mm in length. Overall olive-green in colouration. The fingers on the pincers are lighter in colour, legs characterised by light and dark bands. Last 2 tail segments are granular in texture. Subaculeur tubercle is present.
The Eastern Lessor Thick-Tail Scorpion (Uroplectes vittatus), is a small scorpion with an average length between 40mm and 50mm in length. Light-brown with a pale stipe down the centre of the tergites. Last 2 tail segments are darker in colour. Characteristic dark triangle on the carapace.
The Peglar’s Pygmy Thick-Tail Scorpion (Pseudolychas peglari) ( is a small scorpion wi th an average length about 25mm. Overall colouration dark-brown to reddish-brown throughout it’s range. Shape of venom vesicle is characteristic being large with a short recurved sting.
The Shiny Burrowing Scorpion (Opistophthlamus glabrifrons) Large scorpion with an average length of 70mm to 100mm, reaching up to 140mm in parts of its range. This widely distributed scorpion varies in size and colouration throughout range. Colouration ranges from orange to orange brown in colouration to darker forms.
The Transvaal Thick-Tail Scorpion (Parabuthus transvaalicus), is a large scorpion with an average length between 80mm to 100mm in length, reaching 120mm in some areas. Overall charcoal-black to greyish brown, the carapace is granular in texture. Legs are lighter in colour towards the extremities.
Spider bites in dogs and cats is a challenge to quantify and study. Bites are likely to be more common than in humans, but at the same time, often goes undiagnosed. When cats or dogs locate a spider, they rarely move away to a safe distance. They often head for it and try to kill it which may result in them being bitten.
