It is probable that there is only one species of Scorpion in Cyprus, Mesobuthus cyprius, although one website claims there are three, the other two being Mesobuthus gibbosus and Buthus occitanus. M. cyprius resembles the other two and it is probable that mistakes in identification may have been made.. In fact, the endemic M. cyprius is almost physically identical to M. gibbosus and only DNA testing can ensure positive identification (it was not recognised as a separate species before 2000).

M. cyprius is found in small numbers throughout the island, at all altitudes, with pockets of higher density, notably in the Paphos district, in the Pentadaktylos and on Mount Olympus. It may be less common in the east, although one sighting in an Ayia Napa hotel bath was recorded (there have been a number of reports of this species entering houses). I have observed one in my garden in Mosfiloti. Being nocturnal and photophobic, they generally hide underground in hot weather, under stones or, quite commonly, in woodpiles, especially of olive wood, according to local folklore. The latter attracts many coleopters which may form part of its food preferences.M. cyprius (photo: Copyright © Jan Ove Rein,
The Scorpion Files, 2010)

Scorpion venom is used primarily to paralyse prey, mostly arthropods, rapidly and is usually a mixture of neurotoxins and enzymes. Secondarily, it is used as a defence mechanism against the animal's predators. Unlike that of buthus species, mesobuthus venoms are not usually permanently harmful to healthy humans, although it is reported that a sting from M. cyprius is very painful.

I am grateful to Jan Ove Rein for his permission to use data from the Scorpion Files and from this page, including the photograph.

December 2011. A new endemic species of scorpion, Buthus kunti, has been identified. It is very similar to M. cyprius and I'm not yet certain about distinguishing features, other than it appears to be larger. It is possible that its venom may be more harmful.