Scorpions are present across various regions of California. These arachnids, characterized by their eight legs, pincers, and a segmented tail ending in a stinger, are nocturnal predators. Understanding their common types and behaviors can help residents and visitors coexist safely with them.
Common California Scorpions
The Desert Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis) is North America’s largest, reaching 5 to 7 inches. It has a dark body with yellow legs, claws, and tail, and fine brown hairs. Its venom is generally mild, comparable to a bee sting, and typically not life-threatening to humans.
The Striped-Tail Scorpion (Paravaejovis spinigerus), also known as the Devil Scorpion, is another prevalent species. Adults are typically 2 to 3 inches long, light tan to brownish, with distinctive stripes along their tail segments. Its sting is painful but not particularly dangerous, posing a low health risk unless an individual has an allergic reaction.
The California Forest Scorpion (Uroctonus mordax) is primarily dark brown or black with translucent yellowish-brown legs. Its body appears more “squat” with a skinnier tail compared to other species. This shy species’ sting is often milder than a honeybee’s.
Where Scorpions Live in California
Scorpions in California inhabit diverse environments, adapting to natural landscapes and human-modified areas. They are frequently found in arid, desert, and semi-arid regions, thriving in conditions that offer shelter from heat and predators. Many species prefer to hide under rocks, logs, woodpiles, and other debris during the day. This nocturnal behavior helps them conserve moisture and avoid the sun.
Their distribution extends across Southern California counties like Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego. While prevalent in deserts, some species, such as the California Forest Scorpion, are also found in moister environments like redwood forests and oak woodlands in central and northern forested areas. Scorpions can also be found around homes, in garages, and within buildings, entering through small cracks and openings in search of shelter, moisture, or prey.
Safety and Prevention
Preventing scorpion encounters involves practical steps, particularly around residential areas. Seal cracks and gaps in your home’s foundation, around doors, and windows to block entry points. Maintain a tidy outdoor environment by removing debris such as woodpiles, rocks, and leaf litter, which reduces potential hiding spots for scorpions. Keeping outdoor lights off at night or using yellow, insect-repellent bulbs can help, as these lights attract insects that scorpions prey upon.
If a scorpion sting occurs, first aid measures can alleviate symptoms. Clean the sting site with soap and water and apply a cool compress to reduce pain and swelling. Remove any jewelry from the affected limb to prevent issues if swelling occurs. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used for discomfort. Seek immediate medical attention if severe symptoms develop, such as difficulty breathing, widespread swelling, muscle twitching, or if the sting victim is a young child or elderly. Contact a poison control center for guidance.