Scorpion Facts
- Size: Size varies between species - they can be anywhere from ½ inch to over 8 inches in length - but most measure about 2 inches when fully grown.
- Color: Generally, scorpions are tan in color but can vary widely as some species are yellow, blue, black or red.
Scorpion Appearance
Scorpions’ body structure is relatively consistent across different species - all scorpions have eight legs with two pinchers. They have a long slender body with a segmented tail that can be arched over the back, curving up over the body. The tail is tipped with a venomous stinger which is used to kill or paralyze its prey.
Fun Fact: Scorpions “glow” a bright neon green/yellow when seen under a black light.
Scorpion Habitat
Scorpions don’t like temperatures over 100°F, so it’s not uncommon to find them burrowed in the soil, sand, under rocks, or in shady spaces when outdoors. During the day scorpions hide under stones, in piles of rocks, in cracks, in wood piles, under boards, under bark, or in rubbish. Crawlspace foundations and those constructed of block or stone, provide excellent homes for scorpions.
Scorpions enter structures seeking water and shelter. In houses, they are most often found in undisturbed areas such as closets, seldom-used shoes, or folded clothing. During periods of hot weather, scorpions may move into to lower, cooler living areas to escape the high temperatures in attics. During the night, scorpions seek water and hunt. In the morning they’re often found in bathtubs and sinks, because they couldn’t climb out.
What do Scorpions Eat?
Scorpions feed mainly on small spiders and insects but also enjoy a variety of crickets, earthworms, centipedes, and other scorpions. Although they do have a well-developed sense of hearing, scorpions have poor eyesight. So they must rely on the sense of touch for navigation and detecting prey. Scorpions do not stalk or chase prey, but locate their prey by sensing vibrations and then wait to grab it with their pincers. Even though scorpions are equipped with venom for defense, scorpions fall prey to a variety of predators such as bats, centipedes, lizards, mice, owls, shrews, and tarantulas.
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