Scorpions, arachnids related to spiders, mites, and ticks, inhabit diverse environments across the globe. Within the United States, these predatory creatures are found in various regions. Their presence varies significantly by location, reflecting the environmental conditions they prefer.
Scorpion Hotspots in the United States
The Southwestern United States is the primary hotspot for scorpions, with a high concentration of species due to its arid and semi-arid climates. States such as Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas are known for abundant scorpion populations. Parts of Utah and Colorado also host these arachnids, extending their range beyond the immediate desert southwest.
Beyond the Southwest, scorpions can be found in other warmer, drier areas of the country. Isolated populations exist in the Southeast, including states like Florida and Georgia. While less common than in the desert regions, some species have adapted to the humid subtropical climates found there. Even parts of the Midwest have reported scorpion sightings, demonstrating their adaptability to various terrestrial habitats.
Understanding Scorpion Habitats
Scorpions thrive in arid and semi-arid conditions. These arachnids often seek shelter in rocky terrain, under stones, or in sandy soils where they can easily burrow. Their flattened bodies allow them to fit into narrow crevices, offering protection from predators and extreme temperatures. This preference for secluded places explains where they are commonly encountered.
Being nocturnal, scorpions typically hide during the day in cool, dark locations. They utilize natural ground cover such as logs, debris, or cracks in foundations for refuge. Some species also create burrows in the soil, sometimes quite deep, to escape the heat and conserve moisture. Scorpions have also adapted to human-populated areas, often seeking shelter inside wall voids or around homes.
Common US Scorpion Species and Their Locations
The Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus) is a commonly encountered species in the US, a slender, light brown scorpion. This species is predominantly found in Arizona, though its range extends into parts of southeastern California, southern Nevada, southwestern New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, and Texas. It often occupies crevices in rocks and under tree bark, and can be found in residential areas.
The Stripe-tailed Scorpion (Paravaejovis spinigerus), also known as the Devil Scorpion, is another widespread species. This scorpion is recognized by the brownish-tan stripes along its tail and its comparatively stockier build. It is frequently encountered across Arizona, California, and southwestern New Mexico, often inhabiting sandy soils and found under surface objects.
The Common Desert Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis) is the largest scorpion in the United States, known for its size and fine hairs covering its body. This species typically has a yellow body with a dark top. It inhabits the Sonoran and Mojave Deserts, appearing in Arizona, southern California, Nevada, and parts of Utah, where it often creates burrows in sandy areas.