Color: Varies in shade from yellowish brown to tan
Shape: Segmented, long tail with stinger at the end
Size: 2-4” (20-100 mm)
Antennae: No
Region: Arid southwest and southern part of the United States
Scorpions are closely related to spiders, mites, and ticks. There are around 2,000 species worldwide, and approximately 100 in the United States. Of these, the most dangerous species is the Arizona bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus), which is found in the American Southwest and northern Mexico.
Scorpions are nocturnal pests, so they hide during the day and are most active at night. They primarily feed on insects, especially crickets and cockroaches, as well as spiders. However, they can survive for months without food if water is readily available.
Scorpions are known to sting as a defense mechanism or to kill prey. Humans usually experience mild symptoms similar to a bee sting, such as temporary pain, a burning sensation, or localized swelling. However, a handful of species worldwide possess more dangerous venom that can be fatal to humans, including the Arizona bark scorpion in the U.S.
Scorpions live in dry habitats, usually preferring deserts and semi-arid regions. Many species dig burrows in the soil and hide under rocks, logs, or debris. During hot weather, scorpions may enter homes through wall voids and take shelter in cool, moist areas, such as crawl spaces and attics.
The key to preventing scorpions is to eliminate harborage sites around the property, including woodpiles, trash, and debris. Homeowners should remove stones and landscape timbers from the property, and store firewood at least twenty feet from the home and five inches up off the ground.
Since scorpions can enter structures through torn screens and holes and cracks in building exteriors, it’s equally important to seal cracks and holes on the outside of the home with caulk and repair any damaged window and door screens.
Scorpions are carnivorous predators that primarily feed on insects like crickets, beetles, cockroaches, and spiders. They also eat other small arthropods and occasionally other scorpions. As ambush hunters, they use their pincers to catch prey and their venomous stinger to subdue larger targets.
Scorpions can enter homes through tiny cracks and gaps in foundations, walls, doors, and windows, as they can squeeze through openings as small as 1/16 of an inch. They're often attracted indoors in search of food, water, or shelter, particularly during extreme heat or heavy rain. They can also hitch a ride on firewood, boxes, or other items brought inside.
Scorpions typically come out at night to hunt for food, remaining hidden during the day in cool, dark places such as under rocks, in debris, or in crevices. They're most active in spring and summer, though in some regions, with mild weather, they may be seen year-round.