As a Florida resident you may have encountered one of these creepy crawlies before. Scorpions are found throughout the state, even if they’re not exactly welcomed houseguests!
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at scorpions in Florida: where they live, what species are present, if they’re dangerous, and how to control them on your property. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these misunderstood arthropods that share our sunny state.
Overview of Scorpions in Florida
There are around 2,000 scorpion species in the world, but only 6 are found in Florida. Scorpions have an infamous reputation thanks to their unique anatomy featuring pincers 8 legs and a stinger on the end of their tail.
At a glance, scorpions look intimidating. But are they actually dangerous?
The good news is that while all scorpions can sting, most Florida species have mild venom that causes temporary pain and swelling, but isn’t lethal. Rare life-threatening allergic reactions can occur, however.
Florida scorpions measure 1-4 inches long and live 3-6 years. They are often black, brown or reddish. Scorpions inhabit crevices and burrows and are most active at night when hunting insects and other small prey.
During the day, scorpions hide under rocks, bark, leaf litter, boards and debris. They may find their way indoors and become nuisance pests. Stings usually happen when scorpions get trapped against skin in clothing, towels, bedsheets, etc.
Common Scorpion Species in Florida
There are 6 main scorpion species established in Florida:
1. Hentz Striped Scorpion
- Scientific name: Centruroides hentzi
- Size: 2-3 inches
- Color: Tan to dark brown with yellow/green stripes
- Habitat: Under rocks, bark and leaf litter statewide except the Keys
- Sting: Painful but not dangerous; causes swelling and redness for ~2 days
2. Florida Bark Scorpion
- Scientific name: Centruroides gracilis
- Size: Up to 4 inches
- Color: Brown with yellow legs and markings
- Habitat: Under boards and bark, enters homes. Found in tropical areas except the Keys.
- Sting: Painful with swelling; can cause nausea, cramps and palpitations
3. Keys Bark Scorpion
- Scientific name: Centruroides guanensis
- Size: Up to 4 inches
- Color: Yellow with dark bands
- Habitat: Coastal plains and tropical forests
- Sting: Mildly painful for 1-5 hours
4. Striped Bark Scorpion
- Scientific name: Centruroides vittatus
- Size: Up to 3 inches
- Color: Yellow with dark stripes
- Habitat: Statewide; forests, grasslands, deserts.
- Sting: Pain and swelling for ~24 hours
5. Southern Devil Scorpion
- Scientific name: Vaejovis carolinianus
- Size: Up to 2.5 inches
- Color: Yellow/tan
- Habitat: Coastal southeastern US; leaf litter and forests
- Sting: Swelling, redness and tenderness for 24-48 hours
6. Bark Scorpion
- Scientific name: Centruroides margaritatus
- Size: Up to 3.5 inches
- Color: Light tan
- Habitat: Found statewide; tropical and coastal forests
- Sting: Moderately painful swelling for 12-24 hours
Are Scorpions in Florida Dangerous?
The venom from Florida’s scorpion species ranges from mildly to moderately toxic, but is not potent enough to be deadly.
Healthy adults may experience intense localized pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness lasting 24-48 hours after a sting. The bark scorpion’s venom can additionally cause cramps, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms.
People with allergies or sensitivities can react more severely with widespread hives, swelling, trouble breathing, racing heartbeat and other signs of anaphylaxis. Seek emergency care immediately in this scenario.
While scorpion stings are not pleasant, the good news is they won’t kill you. Fatalities from scorpion stings are extremely rare in the United States. However, small children, elderly and immunocompromised persons are at greater risk.
How to Control Scorpions
Scorpions occasionally find their way indoors, especially in newer homes, cabins or outbuildings. The best way to control scorpions on your Florida property is through integrated pest management:
-
Install weather sealing around doors, windows and openings to block access points. Caulk and seal cracks in the foundation.
-
Remove debris piles, wood piles, landscaping rocks and other scorpion hideouts near the home’s perimeter.
-
Install yellow bug lights around outdoor living areas to deter scorpions, which dislike bright light.
-
Apply an insecticide dust treatment such as diatomaceous earth in crawl spaces, gaps and crevices where scorpions may enter.
-
Consult a professional pest control company for scorpion treatment if an infestation is suspected. They have the right products and training for effective control.
With preventative measures, scorpion encounters can be minimized. But what should you do if stung? Wash the wound with soap and water, apply a cold compress to relieve swelling, and take an OTC pain reliever. Seek medical attention for severe reactions.
The Takeaway on Scorpions in Florida
Scorpions are ubiquitous inhabitants of our state, even if we rarely see them. While their stings shouldn’t be taken lightly, scorpions play an important role in controlling pest insects and are not overtly dangerous. With proper precautions, Florida residents can coexist with these shy venomous critters.
Hentz Striped Scorpion
The most common scorpion found in Florida is the Hentz striped scorpion, which can be found in nearly all parts of Florida. These scorpions are typically about 2-3 inches in length and are dark brown to tan. These scorpions can be further identified by their dark brown to tan color and the presence of greenish-yellow stripes on the midsection. The abdomen is slender and there is a tooth behind the venom bulb. These scorpions are most commonly found beneath stones and other debris on the ground. Hentz striped scorpions eat cockroaches.
Florida Scorpions in the Home
Scorpions will crawl inside homes while following their insect prey and are usually found in crawlspaces and attics. They are also often found in newly built homes.
These critters will sometimes get stuck in a sink or bathtub while searching for water during the night, giving people a scare in the morning. If a scorpion makes its way into the living space, it will take shelter anywhere it can when the sun rises. This is why scorpions have been found in shoes, folded clothing, blankets, and bedsheets.
Scorpions in Florida?!
FAQ
Are scorpions in Florida poisonous?
None of the three Florida scorpion species are capable of producing a fatal sting. While the sting may not be lethal, it is painful and may cause swelling and allergic reactions. Florida scorpions are not aggressive, but may sting when pinned against the skin as when the scorpions become trapped in clothing or sheets.
How rare are scorpions in Florida?
Scorpions exist in Florida and are considered a minor pest. Luckily, we do not have an abundance of them running around, but if you have them in your home, that is a major problem. The number of residents who contact a pest control company for scorpions is not a large amount.
What attracts scorpions in Florida?
Rotting Wood and Debris
Scorpions love to seek shelter in and around rotting logs, piles of leaves, or other rotting debris around. Regular yard maintenance, including the removal of clutter and prompt disposal of dead vegetation, helps eliminate potential hiding spots for scorpions and lessen scorpion activity.
Should I be worried if I see a scorpion in my house?
- Stay Calm : Most scorpions are not dangerous, but it’s best to avoid panic.
- Keep Your Distance : Do not attempt to touch or provoke the scorpion.
- Contain the Area : If possible, close doors to the room where the scorpion is located to prevent it from moving to other areas of your home.
- Capture It
- Release It