Striped Tail Scorpion
Centruroides excilicauda (Bark)
Vaejouis spinigerus (Striped-Tailed)
Physical Features
Scorpions have two body parts, eight legs, a set of large pincers, fang-like appendages near the mouth, and a segmented tail. The last bulbous section (telson) of the tail houses the venom glands. Pincers aid in catching prey as the telson injects the venom. The body has a hard, protective covering called an exoskeleton. Scorpions have multiple sets of eyes, but have poor sight, therefore, they depend on a comb-like organ at the base of the last pair of legs to act like a feeler. The three main scorpions found in Arizona are the Desert Hairy, Bark and Striped-Tailed scorpions.
Desert Hairy- Up to six inches in length
- Pale yellow to brown color
- Intimidating size
- Less than one inch in length
- Light yellow color
- Most venomous
- 2 1/4 inches long
- Yellow to tan color
- Dark triangle mark between the eyes
Life Cycle
Gradual metamorphosis
Male and female scorpions begin the mating process by holding each other’s pincers (pedipalps). The male leads the female to an appropriate mating sight where he deposits his sperm onto the ground so that she can draw the sperm into her genital pore. 5 months to 1 year later, the female will catch her live young, and they will crawl onto her back remaining there until after their first molt reveals a hardened exoskeleton. The average life span is 2 years.
Habits
- Diet: Any invertebrate including many insects, worms, and baby lizards.
- Activity: Nocturnal
- Preferred Climate: Temperatures above 60 degrees
- Defense: Pincers and venom injected.
- Cautions: Scorpions will sting when touched, mishandled or if they become trapped against skin after crawling into shoes, clothing or bedding. All scorpion species in the US are venomous but do not pose a large health risk unless the victim has an allergic reaction or is a small child or elderly, therefore, it is recommended that a physician always be notified if a person is stung.
- Home Invasion: Scorpions may find their way into a home, hiding under rocks, woodpiles, crevices or anyplace providing shade and seclusion.
Helpful Hints for Control
- Remove debris in and around the home. Keep trash cans elevated.
- Keep landscape well-maintained.
- Never bring firewood inside the house unless it is placed directly on the fire.
- Keep window screens in good repair and check they fit tightly in frame.
- Recommend regular pest control service plan.
Interesting Fact
The scorpion’s chitinous exoskelton glows under ultraviolet or “black” lights.
Symptoms
Scorpions can cause immediate pain and swelling. Numbness and tingling are frequently reported. The injured area may be hypertensive to touch, pressure, heat and cold. Small children are at the highest risk.
