Scorpions, often associated with arid desert landscapes, are indeed present in Colorado. While surprising to many, these arachnids have adapted to various environments across the state. This article explores the types of scorpions found in Colorado, their preferred habitats, and practical advice for coexisting with them.
Scorpion Species in Colorado
Colorado is home to three confirmed species of scorpions: the Northern Scorpion (Paruroctonus boreus), the Common Striped Bark Scorpion (Centruroides vittatus), and the Northern Desert Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus spadix). The Northern Scorpion is particularly notable for having the most northerly distribution of any scorpion species, extending into southern Alberta. This species measures about 1.5 to 2.0 inches long, though some reach up to 4 inches, including the tail. It has a pale yellow to orange-brown body with a duskier back, and adult males are smaller than females.
The Northern Scorpion’s venom is not considered life-threatening to humans, causing localized pain and swelling similar to a bee or wasp sting. Some individuals may experience numbness or tingling, but serious complications are rare. Similarly, the Common Striped Bark Scorpion, widespread in southeastern Colorado, delivers a sting that is not serious for most people. The Northern Desert Hairy Scorpion is the largest species in the state, reaching five inches in length, and its sting causes sharp burning pain that dissipates within hours.
Where Scorpions Live and Thrive
Scorpions in Colorado are nocturnal predators. During the day, they seek shelter to avoid predators and extreme temperatures. They hide under loose rocks, dead wood, dried cattle manure, and within cracks and crevices. Open, arid, rocky, or sandy environments with loose soil are favored habitats.
The distribution of scorpions varies across Colorado. The Northern Scorpion is found in counties along the Utah border and on the Western Slope, in areas with sandstone cliffs. The Common Striped Bark Scorpion is widespread in southeastern Colorado, reaching as far north as Interstate 70, inhabiting deserts, grasslands, and even forests. The Northern Desert Hairy Scorpion is limited to areas on the Western Slope, such as around the Colorado National Monument and Dinosaur National Monument. These creatures are adaptable and can be found at various altitudes, seeking specific temperature ranges.
Living with Scorpions
To minimize encounters with scorpions around homes, several preventative measures can minimize encounters. Sealing cracks and holes in foundations, walls, and around pipes prevents them from entering structures. Ensuring windows are sealed tightly and installing weatherstripping around doors also blocks entry points. Removing outdoor hiding spots such as piles of rocks, wood, debris, and overgrown vegetation around the house reduces hiding spots. Keeping lawns cut short and trimming branches away from the house deters them.
If a scorpion is found indoors, safely remove it by placing a glass jar over it, sliding a piece of paper underneath to trap it, and then releasing it far from the property. For those stung by a scorpion, clean the sting area with soap and water and apply a cool compress or ice pack to reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen manage discomfort. While most scorpion stings in Colorado are not life-threatening, monitor for severe reactions such as muscle twitching, difficulty breathing, or widespread numbness, especially in young children or individuals with allergies. If concerned or severe reactions occur, contact a poison control center or seek medical attention.