Are there scorpions in Nyungwe National Park? One may ask, and the answer is yes. This is due to the park’s diverse landscape, which provides a habitat for various scorpion species.
Sometimes, these scorpions venture into human dwellings in search of food and water or to hide from dangerous creatures that may threaten their survival.
The most common scorpion species found here is Hemiscorpius lepturus, known for its deadly venom.
If a sting is left untreated, it can lead to coma, with over 89% of cases reported.
This is why the Rwanda Biomedical Center advises everyone to be cautious and to seek help immediately in case of a sting.
Scorpions belong to the same family as spiders, ticks, and mites.
They start life as eggs that hatch within their mother’s body.
When a mother scorpion is killed, it can result in hundreds of young scorpions scattering around, as the babies cling to their mother’s back for protection until they are old enough to search for food and defend themselves.
Scorpions usually hunt at night, using their pincers to trap prey and their venom to subdue it before tearing it apart. Surprisingly, they vary in size, color, and shape, with two pincers, eight legs, and a tail that ends in a stinger.
Each of these features plays a role in their survival in Nyungwe National Park. Scorpions typically thrive in dry areas, but some can also be found in rain-forests like Nyungwe.
Be careful, as they are small, hardy predators, usually not exceeding eight inches in length, and can survive up to two years without food or water, depending on their developmental stage.
Not all scorpions are dangerous. Some scorpions have venom, while others do not, with only 30 species considered harmful.
Interestingly, young scorpions tend to have more potent venom than adults.
How Can You Tell if a Scorpion Sting Contains Venom?
Symptoms can range from redness and pain to muscle spasms and seizures, with children being more affected since their organs are still developing.
If symptoms appear within two to four hours, seek medical attention immediately.
In the meantime, the first aid after a scorpion sting includes staying calm to prevent the venom from spreading, washing the sting with soap and water, and applying ice to the affected area for ten-minute intervals.
Always wear protective clothing and avoid stepping into dark or hidden areas for a comfortable and safe stay in Nyungwe National Park.
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