Scorpion Facts & Information

Scorpions generally have distinct features that make them easily recognizable: a flattened body with two large pincers and a segmented tail that curves over their back, ending in a stinger. They have poor eyesight and rely more on touch to navigate. 

Scorpions are nocturnal—they are most active at night and seek shelter under rocks, logs, or debris during the daytime. In fact, they actually fluoresce under a black light, making them easier to spot at night. 

While they’re often associated with the desert, scorpions can also be found in areas with mountains, caves, and marshes. The United States is home to several scorpion species, mostly concentrated in the Southwest. Identifying the specific type of scorpion can help you determine where they might be hiding. 

Here are some of the most notable species:

Bark Scorpion (Centruroides exilicauda)

The bark scorpion is the only species in the U.S. with venom that is dangerous to humans. They are typically found in Arizona, California, and New Mexico. These scorpions are slender, with long, delicate pincers and a thin tail (only about 1/16 inch wide), and grow to about 3 inches in length. They are also known to be climbers, so you can often find them on trees and walls.

Arizona Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis)

This is the largest scorpion in North America, found in Southern California and Arizona. They are burrowing scorpions but can also be found under objects and around homes.

Yellow Ground Scorpion (Vaejovis confusus)

A small, light-colored species often mistaken for the Arizona bark scorpion due to its similar pale yellowish-brown coloration. Unlike the Arizona bark scorpion, its tail is thicker and its pincers are more stocky and robust. This scorpion is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of California. It is less venomous but still capable of delivering a painful sting.

Stripedtail Scorpion (Vaejovis spinigerus)

This common species is found in Southern California, Arizona, and New Mexico. While they are also a type of burrowing scorpions, the stripedtail can live in different habitats, from deserts to rocky hillsides. They are not considered dangerous to humans.

Scorpions that hide under objects often carry their stinger to one side, while burrowing scorpions carry theirs over their backs. When they run, they hold their pincers out with their tail curved upwards. 

Scorpions eat a variety of insects, spiders, and, yes, even other scorpions. Larger scorpions may also eat small lizards, snakes, and mice. Interestingly, bark scorpions tend to orient themselves upside down, which is why people are often stung when picking up objects.