Scorpions
Scorpion Information
Scorpions are arachnids with eight legs and sharp stingers. They are very common across the southern and southwestern United States and parts of Mexico. Scorpions not only inhabit desert areas but grasslands, rain forests, and savannahs as well. They are most active during the day, feeding off of insects and spiders. When they are active, scorpions seek shelter and coolness underneath rocks, woodpiles, and tree bark. If a scorpion stings a human or animal, it can be deadly.
What does a Scorpion look like?
Scorpions are arachnids and, subsequently, are related to spiders. They are, however in a separate order (Scorpionida). Scorpions are predators. They hunt insects and use the venom located in the stingers at the tip of their abdomen to paralyze prey. This stinger can also be used in defense, so beware! If a scorpion gets into your house, keep in mind that, not only can it give you a painful sting, but you might have an insect problem that is attracting the predator! It is best to have scorpion control and scorpion removal professionals do an inspection for you.
Scorpion habitats
Scorpions not only inhabit desert areas but grasslands, rain forests, and savannahs as well. They are most active during the day, feeding off of insects and spiders. When they are active, scorpions seek shelter and coolness underneath rocks, woodpiles, and tree bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Confusion about how these strange pests are classified makes many people wonder “is a scorpion an insect?” In fact, because they have eight legs like ticks and spiders, scorpions are not insects. They are arachnids.
Some of the major species include:
- Bark scorpions – Small and solid light brown, these pests are considered dangerous to people.
- Arizona hairy scorpions – This variety is the largest in the country and gets its name from the tiny hairs that cover its body.
- Stripe-tailed scorpions – The most common species, they are usually less than three inches long and feature stripes on their bodies and tails.
Baby scorpions are born live and stay on their mothers’ backs until their exoskeletons harden. The appearance of a young scorpion is very similar to that of an adult, only smaller and lighter in color. Some baby scorpions do not reach maturity for several years, and certain species live for over a decade.
Most scorpion attacks are painful but do not require medical treatment. Serious or even deadly reactions are generally a result of allergies to scorpion venom. The following are possible scorpion sting symptoms:
- Intense, radiating discomfort
- Localized pain in the armpits and groin
- Agitation and anxiety
- High fever
- Sweating and chills
