Scorpions, often misunderstood and persecuted, have captured the imagination of humans from early times, but only recently have we begun to understand their complex behaviour and biology. Some 60 southern African species are discussed here (up from some 50 in the first edition), including those most likely to be encountered. Scorpions of Southern Africa examines their anatomy and behaviour, survival strategies in harsh conditions, their use of venom and their successful existence over millions of years. Clear images and distribution maps further inform about southern Africa's rich scorpion fauna, indicating where to look for them and how best to handle them.
Jonathan Leeming was born in the village of Ravenshead, England, and was encouraged by his parents from an early age to love and respect the natural world. After immigrating to South Africa in 1984, he joined the Spider Club of Southern Africa and the African Arachnological Society. Southern African scorpions have since been his passion and absorbing interest. He has given many public lectures and led field trips, and has acted as a consultant on film documentaries and TV programmes and for various publications.