Striped Bark Scorpion

Actual Size: 2 – 2 ¾ inches

Characteristics: Small to medium-sized scorpion with a slender body that is typically pale yellow to light tan. It is easily recognized by the dark stripes running along its back and its long, thin tail that ends in a curved stinger.

Legs: 8

Habitat: Commonly found in warm, dry environments such as deserts, woodlands, and scrub areas. They are also frequently found around homes, especially in attics, crawl spaces, and woodpiles, where they seek shelter during the day.

Habits:

Most active during nighttime hours.
While their sting is painful and occasionally causes severe reactions, it is rarely deadly.
They feed mostly on small insects and spiders.

Striped Bark Scorpion in Athens, GA

The striped bark scorpion is found across a wide range of the south-central United States, including in Athens, GA. It is well adapted to surviving in both natural and urban environments. It often hides in tight crevices, under bark, and in sheltered spaces near structures. It takes shelter during the day and forages at night. Unlike some scorpions, it does not burrow. Its typical prey includes insects, other arachnids, and even juvenile members of its own species.

Striped Bark Scorpion Habitat

Striped bark scorpions are widely distributed and occupy a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and conifer forests. Most of their time is spent near the ground, where they shelter in vegetation, under rocks, within crevices of old buildings, and beneath fallen trees or debris. They sometimes enter structures and seek out narrow hiding spots indoors. Their climbing ability also allows them to reach elevated areas, including attics in homes.

Striped Bark Scorpion Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

The venom of the striped bark scorpion is generally not considered deadly to humans. Symptoms usually develop quickly after a sting. Most stings result in localized pain and swelling. However, individuals who are sensitive to the venom may experience symptoms such as chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, or, in rare cases, anaphylactic shock. If you suspect a striped bark scorpion problem, contact your local pest control company.