Scorpions in Texas – 6 Species

Scorpions in Texas?

There are scorpions in Texas. They’re not as common as other states, but they can be found anywhere in the state.

In this article, I will talk a bit about the species of scorpion that can be found in the state of Texas.

If you are thinking about having a scorpion as a pet check out this article: Scorpion as Pet: How to Care for Your New Pet

Lesser Stripetail Scorpion

The Lesser Stripetail Scorpion is a very small scorpion with an average leg span of just one inch. It is light brown with black stripes on the sides of its body. When threatened, it usually scoots away, but will sometimes sting if they are picked up. The Lesser Stripetail Scorpion is not considered dangerous to humans but can give a painful sting if handled improperly.

Males reach a height of approximately 35 millimeters (1.4 in). Females develop to a length of 40–45 millimeters (1.6–1.8 in), but rarely to 55 millimeters (2.2 in).

Striped Bark Scorpion

The striped bark scorpion is a type of scorpion that is found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found across a large part of this region, though it is classified as an endangered species. The striped bark scorpion has a yellow and brown striped underside and grows to about an inch long. They will sting humans if provoked or threatened and should be avoided by those with allergies to bee stings.

Each year, thousands of people are stung by Striped Bark Scorpion while walking barefoot or by coming into contact with the scorpion in houses and other man-made structures. While Striped Bark Scorpion stings are extremely infrequently fatal, they are unpleasant and cause regional edema.  Neurotoxins in the venom can also cause paresthesia and muscle spasms, while more severe cases have resulted in a more severe hypersensitive reaction characterized by angioedema, abdominal cramping, chest tightness, flushing, lightheadedness, a large localized reaction, nausea and vomiting, syncope, shortness of breath, urticaria, wheezing, and, in the most severe cases, anaphylactic shock.

Texas Cave Scorpion

As the name says, the Texas Cave Scorpion is found in and around caverns. This is a venomous scorpion, however, the sting is believed to be similar to that of a bee and to be of little consequence. They are occasionally seen in residences adjacent to natural regions, as they like cave-like habitats, but they are more likely to nestle beneath woodpiles.

The Texas Cave Scorpion is an opportunistic and patient predator that preys largely on cave crickets. This is the only other scorpion found in Central Texas outside the bark scorpion, however, it is far less common and must typically be sought out by aspiring entomologists.

Lindo Scorpion

The Lindo Scorpion, or Digging Scorpion as it is often known, is a scorpion that lives in the deserts of Western Texas. Burrowed in the desert sand, this scorpion can be found. This is a slow-growing yet long-lived species that can achieve full maturity after up to eight years. This scorpion is rarely frequently observed in Texas, primarily because it is elusive and burrows into the sand. Lindo Scorpions consume a range of invertebrates, such as beetles, crickets, and other insects. This is a scorpion that can survive several days without food yet has a ravenous appetite when it is hungry.

As with other native Texas scorpions, the Lindo Scorpion is not lethal to humans, although it is capable of biting if attacked or provoked. While a bite from one of these scorpions is terrible, it is rarely fatal.

Straight-Faced Solifugid Scorpion

Straight-Faced Solifugid Scorpions are predominantly found in Texas’s desert regions. These nimble scorpions, which are around 2 inches in length, are extremely fast, which is why they are also known as Wind Scorpions due to their ability to travel as quickly as the wind.

Even though this is a nonvenomous scorpion, its powerful jaws may administer a devastating bite. While debates continue about whether these critters are scorpions or spiders, they are classed as scorpions. These are aggressive scorpions that are completely safe until you attempt to pick them up, at which point they will bite you. Due to its spider-like appearance and swift movements, a Straight-Faced Solifugid can readily startle and frighten its prey.

Florida Bark Scorpion

The Florida Bark Scorpion is a very venomous scorpion that is mostly found in residential areas throughout central Texas. Homeowners are frequently startled by these scorpions, which can be found in woodpiles, beneath tree bark, and beneath stones. These scorpions can be discovered residing within the walls of homes and beneath yard waste piles.

While this is a venomous scorpion, it is not regarded as a dangerous or lethal species, it is capable of inflicting a painful sting. During the day, this scorpion hides beneath logs or loose pieces of tree bark. They can also conceal themselves beneath boards and other trash and frequently make their way inside newly constructed homes in Texas.