How to Find a Scorpion With a Black Light

Scorpions glow when illuminated by ultraviolet light. Scientists aren't sure why they do this, although it may help them determine when it is too bright to be safe in the open. The sun produces and the moon reflects both visible and ultraviolet light, and this may be the only way scorpions can detect light. According to research from California State University, scorpions may sense when their fluorescent pigment degrades because of exposure to light. It could also be a warning signal to potential predators. Usefully, this characteristic makes finding a scorpion extremely easy at night if you have a black light.

Things You'll Need

• Work gloves
• Black light flashlight
• Jar
• Piece of cardboard

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Put on work gloves just in case you accidentally touch a scorpion.

   • 2

     Switch the flashlight on and turn off all other lights.

   • 3

     Use a sweeping motion to shine the black light over the area. Face one way, scan the area, turn 90 degrees and repeat until you find the scorpion. If you are inside, focus along the edges of walls, furniture and other places scorpions may hide, such as shoes and pet bedding.

   • 4

     Put a jar over the scorpion quickly, slide cardboard underneath and empty the jar outside at a distance from your home.

   • 5

     Repeat until you have checked the entire area, because there may be more than one scorpion.