Students at the University of Bristol were left stunned when a potentially life-threatening scorpion was found in a Shein delivery package. Sofia Alonso-Mossinger, a student at the university, was unwrapping a new pair of boots she ordered when she noticed something moving inside the package. Initially mistaking it for a toy, she soon realized it was a live scorpion.
Alonso-Mossinger described the experience as surreal, stating, “I thought I was dreaming…It was scary being in my room with a random scorpion.” Quick to react, she sealed the bag with the scorpion still inside and sought help from her flatmates. Despite considering killing the creature, the students opted to handle the situation humanely.
Oliver James, a housemate studying zoology, safely transferred the scorpion into a plastic container using kitchen tongs. They provided the scorpion with water and cardboard to mimic its natural habitat before contacting the appropriate authorities for assistance. The scorpion, identified as Olivierus martensii, a Chinese scorpion native to Asia, was eventually collected by the National Centre for Reptile Welfare.
Chris Newman from the NCRW noted that such incidents are becoming more common, with the scorpion’s sting being medically significant and potentially life-threatening. He reassured that most adults would likely not be harmed by the scorpion. Shein, the online retailer from which the package was ordered, has been approached for comment on the matter.
Looking back on the incident, Alonso-Mossinger now sees it as a humorous anecdote but recalls the fear she felt at the time. The students’ swift and compassionate response ensured the safe removal of the unexpected visitor from their delivery. The incident serves as a reminder to stay vigilant when receiving parcels, as wildlife encounters can happen unexpectedly.