Desert Scorpions in California

Identification

• While there are numerous varieties of scorpions in the California desert, the bark scorpion, the Arizona hairy scorpion and the striped tail scorpion are the most common. While the Arizona hairy scorpion is the largest, the bark scorpion is the most dangerous in North America. The bark scorpion, with is yellow without stripes, is located in extreme southeastern portions of California. The Arizona hairy scorpion has been spotted in Los Angeles, Riverside and San Diego counties. The striped tail scorpion is common through dry areas of California, living in rocky hillsides or burrowing in sandy desert ground.

Food and Life Cycle

• Desert scorpions in California are nocturnal, hunting at night. When hunting, these scorpions wait and ambush their prey at the right moment. Smaller scorpions eat insects and spiders, while larger scorpions often feed on lizards, mice and snakes. Their venom is used to paralyze their prey. According to the University of California, scorpions in California may live three to five years, but some can live as long as 15 years.

Venom and Stingers

• Scorpions have an enlarged segmented tail with a stinger at the end. Depending on the type of scorpion, stings can be painful. The bark scorpion is the most venomous scorpion in North America, and can cause severe pain, numbness and shortness of breath. For small children, the bite could be fatal. Because scorpions like to hide under rocks and in shoes and sleeping bags, hikers and campers in this area need to be careful. If you do get stung by a scorpion, apply a cold pack and seek medical attention immediately.

Origin

• Scorpions have been found in California's ancient deserts for many years. These animals have made a home in the arid climate since between 425 million and 450 millions years ago. Scorpions are believed to have originated in the sea, with claws that allowed them to climb rocky shores and eventually rocky and sandy land.