Kent Museum Seeks Volunteer for Unique Scorpion Monitoring Role

A museum located in Kent is seeking a volunteer for what is described as one of the United Kingdom’s most distinctive positions. The Blue Town Heritage Centre, situated on the Isle of Sheppey, has posted an advertisement for a “chief scorpion wrangler.” This individual would be responsible for monitoring a colony of scorpions that has resided within the walls of Sheerness Dockyard, directly across from the centre, for over two centuries. Jenny Hurkett, the 75-year-old head of the centre, stated: “They are one of our island’s strangest tourist attractions. People come from far and wide to catch a glimpse of them after the sun goes down.” She further explained the need for the role, adding: “But we want someone to monitor them to ensure they are safe. No-one else seems to be looking out for them.” These yellow-tailed scorpions have inhabited Sheppey for over two centuries. It is thought that these scorpions arrived in Britain in the early 1800s, having traveled on vessels transporting granite blocks to Sheppey during King George III’s reign. These blocks were used in the construction of the dockyard wall, which was finished in 1813. The arachnids found on Sheppey are small, reaching a maximum length of 45mm. Despite their size, their sting is potent, though reportedly no more severe than that of a bee. The description for the volunteer role states: “There are no formal qualifications needed but any applicant for the position should have a natural love of animals and, in particular, creepy-crawlies.” It continues: “The successful applicant will be required to inspect Britain’s largest scorpion colony once a month to ensure its members are safe.” Furthermore, the role specifies: “You will be given access to an ultraviolet torch to help you locate our nippy neighbours.” And finally: “You will also be required to wear headgear to protect you against falling masonry. Our previous incumbent wore an old-style explorer’s pith helmet.”