Invertebrates
Scorpionfly
Panorpidae · also called scorpionflies
Carrying a bulbous, upward-curving tail that looks ready to strike like a scorpion’s, a male scorpionfly is in reality completely harmless, the alarming structure existing purely to play a role in courtship rather than defence.
Overview
The scorpionfly, family Panorpidae, is native to forest and grassland habitat mainly across the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Its scorpion-mimicking but harmless tail, scavenging lifestyle, and unusual courtship gift-giving make it one of the more distinctive and misleadingly named insects found in its range.
A fearsome look with nothing behind it
Despite a silhouette built to startle, the scorpionfly carries no venom and no ability to sting, and its intimidating tail turns out to serve an entirely different, far gentler purpose tied to finding and keeping a mate.
Status
Not Evaluated for conservation status, found across suitable temperate forest and grassland habitat throughout its range.
Scorpionfly: common questions
Can a scorpionfly actually sting like a scorpion?
No, the bulbous, upward-curved structure on the male's abdomen that resembles a scorpion's tail has no venom and cannot sting; it exists purely as part of the mating apparatus and poses no danger to people.
What does a scorpionfly eat?
It is an omnivore that mainly scavenges dead and dying insects, feeds on nectar, and occasionally steals prey caught in spider webs.
What is a nuptial gift in scorpionfly courtship?
A male sometimes offers a female a captured insect or a blob of saliva before mating, a gesture that can improve his chances of being accepted as a mate.
Where is the scorpionfly found?
It is native to forest and grassland habitat mainly across the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.