Scorpions are present in Georgia. The species commonly found in the state pose a mild threat to humans. Their appearance might be unsettling, but their venom is comparable to a bee or wasp sting. Serious reactions are uncommon, typically occurring in individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
Common Scorpion Species in Georgia
Georgia is home to a few scorpion species, primarily the Southern Devil Scorpion (Vaejovis carolinianus) and the Striped Bark Scorpion (Centruroides vittatus). The Southern Devil Scorpion, also called the Southern Unstriped Scorpion, is native to the southeastern United States. This species is dark brown, measuring 1 to 1.5 inches. Its venom is not medically significant for most people, causing symptoms similar to a bee sting, such as localized pain, redness, and swelling.
The Striped Bark Scorpion has a pale-yellow or light tan body with two dark stripes and a dark triangle on its head. These scorpions can grow up to 2.75 inches long and are common across the United States. Its sting can be painful, but its venom is not dangerous to humans. The Florida Bark Scorpion is occasionally found in southern Georgia, particularly in coastal areas. Its sting is described as more painful than the other two, but it is not deadly.
Where Scorpions Are Found
Scorpions in Georgia inhabit outdoor and indoor environments, seeking dark, sheltered, and moist conditions. Outdoors, they reside under rocks, logs, leaf litter, woodpiles, and sheds. They are nocturnal, most active at night, and hide during the day to avoid predators and extreme temperatures.
Indoors, scorpions seek refuge in basements, attics, and crawl spaces, as these areas provide the cool, damp conditions they prefer. They can also be found in dark closets, shoes, or near moisture sources like sinks and bathtubs. Scorpions can enter homes through cracks in foundations, gaps under doors, or unscreened windows, in search of prey or shelter.
Encountering Scorpions: Safety and Response
Preventing scorpion encounters involves minimizing access to your home and reducing attractive habitats. Sealing cracks in the foundation, around windows, and installing door sweeps can block entry points. Clearing outdoor debris like firewood, leaf piles, and clutter away from your home creates less appealing hiding spots. Reducing indoor humidity and fixing leaky pipes can make your home less hospitable.
If you encounter a scorpion, avoid direct contact. When working outdoors where scorpions might hide, such as gardening or moving woodpiles, wear gloves and closed-toe shoes for protection. Before putting on shoes or clothing stored in dark areas, shake them out to dislodge any hidden scorpions.
If stung, symptoms include immediate localized pain, redness, and swelling, sometimes accompanied by numbness or tingling. First aid involves cleaning the area with soap and water. Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce pain and swelling. Elevating the stung limb may also minimize discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can manage the pain.
Most scorpion stings in Georgia are mild, but seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, persist, or if the stung individual is a child, elderly, or has allergies. Signs of a severe reaction, such as difficulty breathing, widespread hives, facial swelling, nausea, or rapid heartbeat, require immediate emergency care.