The emperor scorpion (Pandinus imperator) is one of the more well known species of scorpion, native to West Africa in the regions of Sierra Leone, Ghana and the Congo. Within this habitat range, it resides in burrows or under debris in forests and savannas. It is noted as one of the largest of all scorpions, with a shiny black body and reddish black pincers. Not only is the emperor scorpion a commonly known species, but a popular pet choice due to its docile almost timid disposition despite its size and appearance. It has a harmless sting that it rarely uses, preferring to tear its prey with its pincers.