The Desert Scorpion

One of earliest occurrences of the scorpion in culture is its inclusion, as Scorpio, in the twelve signs of the series of constellations known as the Zodiac by Babylonian astronomers during the Chaldean period.

Two types of scorpions are found in Egypt: the paler, more poisonous members of the family Buthridae and the darker, usually less harmful members of the family Scorpionidae.

Scorpions are nocturnal, hunting insects and they hunt during the dark hours, while during the day they hide underground.

According to Diodorus Siculus the hawk was the natural enemy of the scorpions:

"Among birds the ibis serves against snakes, locust and caterpillars, and the hawk against scorpions and horned adders and other small poisonous animals whose venom is especially dangerous to humans."


TREATMENT

If stung by a black scorpion treatment would be the same as a wasp or bee sting.

If stung by a pale scorpion the stung area should be immediately immobilized, covered with ice, and hospital emergency treatment sought without delay.