Scorpions are found in Georgia, though their venom is not considered highly dangerous to humans in the state.
Scorpion Species in Georgia
The most common scorpion in Georgia is the Southern Devil Scorpion (Vaejovis carolinianus). Native to the southeastern United States, it is also called the Southern Unstriped Scorpion. This small arachnid typically measures one to one and a half inches, though some reach two inches.
Southern Devil Scorpions are dark brown to nearly black, lacking prominent stripes. As nocturnal predators, they use pincers to grasp prey and a stinger to inject venom. They are generally shy and prefer to flee from disturbances rather than sting, making them less aggressive towards humans.
While the Southern Devil Scorpion is most prevalent, two other species occasionally appear in Georgia. The Striped Bark Scorpion (Centruroides vittatus), primarily found in the western U.S., has been observed in sandy areas of South Georgia and the Atlanta metropolitan area. The Florida Bark Scorpion (Centruroides gracilis), identifiable by its reddish-orange hue and longer length, is rarely seen but can occur in extreme southern Georgia.
Understanding Scorpion Stings and Safety
A scorpion sting from a Georgia species, particularly the Southern Devil Scorpion, usually feels similar to a bee or wasp sting. Common symptoms at the sting site include immediate, sharp pain that may later become a dull ache, along with localized redness and swelling. The pain can persist for about 20 minutes, with redness and swelling lasting for an hour or more.
While most stings are mild, some individuals may experience more pronounced symptoms such as sweating, numbness, or tingling around the sting area. In rare instances, a sting can trigger a severe allergic reaction, which requires immediate medical attention. Signs of such a reaction include difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face or lips, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, or a rapid heartbeat.
If stung, clean the wound with mild soap and water. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area reduces pain and swelling. Elevating the stung limb also minimizes swelling, and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can manage discomfort.
Preventing scorpion encounters involves several steps. Shaking out shoes and clothing before use prevents accidental stings. Sealing cracks and gaps in the foundation, around pipes, and under doors with sweeps or caulk blocks entry into homes. Removing outdoor debris like leaf piles, rocks, and wood stacks reduces hiding spots. Minimizing clutter indoors and addressing excess moisture in areas like basements makes homes less appealing.
Where Scorpions Live in Georgia
Scorpions in Georgia typically inhabit natural environments offering shelter and moisture. They are often found under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and dead tree bark. These arachnids seek refuge underground during the day, emerging at night to hunt small insects and spiders.
Scorpions can enter homes through surprisingly small openings, sometimes as narrow as one-eighth of an inch. Common entry points include unsealed cracks in foundations, gaps under doors, and openings around windows or utility pipes. Once inside, scorpions are often drawn to areas mimicking their preferred outdoor habitats, such as basements, crawl spaces, and cluttered storage areas.
They favor high-moisture locations within a home, including areas around sinks, bathtubs, and laundry rooms. Attracting other pests, which serve as a food source, can inadvertently draw scorpions indoors. Keeping these indoor areas dry and free of clutter can help deter scorpions from establishing themselves.