Forest scorpion facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cercophonius squama |
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| Scientific classification | |
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Bothriuridae
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| Genus: |
Cercophonius
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| Species: |
C. squama
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| Binomial name | |
| Cercophonius squama (Gervais, 1844)
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The Cercophonius squama, also known as the forest scorpion or wood scorpion, is a type of scorpion that lives in southeastern Australia. These scorpions are usually about 25 to 40 millimeters (1 to 1.5 inches) long. Their bodies come in different shades of brown, helping them blend into their surroundings.
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What Does It Look Like?
This scorpion's body is typically a creamy yellow to orange-brown color. It has dark brown patterns or spots, which are called variegations. Its legs are yellow, but they also have some dark brown coloring.
Where Does It Live?
The C. squama scorpion can be found in several parts of Australia. These include South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, the ACT, and Tasmania. Interestingly, it is the only type of scorpion that lives in Tasmania.
How Does It Behave?
The forest scorpion is known to be slightly defensive. This means it might try to protect itself if it feels threatened.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Scorpions have an interesting way of reproducing. For the Cercophonius squama, mating happens before winter begins. The female scorpions usually give birth during the summer months.
A female scorpion can have between 20 and 30 live babies at one time. This process takes several hours. When they are born, the baby scorpions are white and have soft bodies. It takes about two weeks for their hard outer shell, called an exoskeleton, to fully form.
