Scorpions—with their venomous sting and intimidating appearance—pose little threat to humans, but some species pack a potent punch that can cause serious health issues.
In fact, a study reported that between 2005 and 2015, 16,275 individuals (8.8% of all US scorpion exposures) required medical attention due to scorpion stings.1
If you’re planning a trip across the United States, it’s crucial to be aware of the states where these arachnids reside and take precautions to avoid unwanted encounters.
1. Washington
Washington state is home to two scorpion species: the Northern scorpion (Paruroctonus boreus) found east of the Cascades in dry, rocky or sandy areas,(ref) and the Pacific forest scorpion (Uroctonus mordax) found in forested areas west of the Cascades.(ref)
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While scorpions are not commonly seen, they are a beneficial part of the ecosystem, hunting insects and other small prey
2. Montana
There are three species of scorpions found in Montana: the Northern scorpion, the Striped bark scorpion, and the Pseudoscorpion.
The Northern scorpion is the most cold-tolerant and can even be found in Canada, while the Striped bark scorpion is found in forests and the Pseudoscorpion, though not a true scorpion, is a small arachnid that is harmless to humans.(ref)
3. North Dakota
Scorpions in North Dakota are found primarily in areas with lignite coal, and while their presence may be surprising, they are a unique part of the state’s invertebrate fauna. The Northern scorpion is the most common species found in North Dakota.(ref)
4. Idaho
The Northern scorpion (Paruroctonus boreus) is one of the most common scorpion species in Idaho, typically brown or pale in color. Scorpions in Idaho are found in dry, rocky areas and are nocturnal, hiding under rocks during the day.(ref)
5. Wyoming
Scorpions are uncommon in Wyoming but can be found in isolated populations in the warmer, southern parts of the state. These are typically the Northern Scorpion, seeking refuge in rocky crevices and dry environments.
6. Illinois
Illinois is home to the Common striped scorpion (Centruroides vittatus), which is the only scorpion species known to be found in the state. This species is widely distributed across North America and is a unique component of Illinois’ invertebrate fauna.(ref)
7. Oregon
While not widespread, scorpions can be found in certain areas of Oregon. The western forest scorpion (Uroctonus mordax) is a medium-sized, shy species inhabiting the cooler, wetter mountainous regions of western Oregon.(ref)
8. Nevada
Nevada is one of the states where Northern scorpions are commonly found, along with California, Arizona, and New Mexico. The hot, desert climate is ideal for scorpions, which are nocturnal and hide in the shade during the day.(ref)
9. Nebraska
Scorpions are found in Nebraska, with the Stripebacked scorpion likely being the most common species, as it is found in dry, rocky areas across the western United States.(ref) Nebraska’s climate and habitat are suitable for scorpion populations.
10. Missouri
Missouri has a population of Stripebacked scorpions, which are the most likely species found in the state.(ref) Scorpions are found in dry, rocky areas across the Midwest and Great Plains states.
11. Kentucky
Kentucky is home to the Southern Devil Scorpion (Vejovis carolinianus), which is primarily found in the southeastern part of the state. This species is relatively small and non-aggressive, preferring to hide under rocks and debris, making it a benign presence in the region.(ref)
12. Colorado
Colorado hosts three confirmed scorpion species, including the Northern Scorpion (Paruroctonus boreus), the Common Striped Bark Scorpion (Centruroides vittatus), and the Northern Desert Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus spadix).(ref)
These scorpions are primarily found in dry, rocky areas and are nocturnal predators, feeding on various arthropods.
13. California
California has a diverse scorpion population, with several species including the California Common Scorpion (Paruroctonus silvestrii) and the Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus).(ref) The state’s varied climates and habitats, from deserts to forests, support these scorpions.
14. Arizona
Arizona is known for its scorpion population, including the highly venomous Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus) usually hanging out in the Grand Canyon.(ref) The state’s arid climate provides ideal conditions for scorpions, which are often found under rocks and in crevices during the day, coming out at night to hunt.
15. New Mexico
New Mexico is home to various scorpions, with the Arizona Bark Scorpion and Whip Scorpions being the most common.(ref) The state’s landscapes and climates create suitable habitats for scorpions, which can often be found in both urban and rural areas, particularly in the southern regions.
16. Virginia
Virginia has the Emperor Scorpions (Pandinus imperator), which are carnivorous. While not considered dangerous, its presence is rare, and it can be found in hot and humid areas.(ref)
17. Utah
Utah features several scorpion species, including the Arizona Bark Scorpion and the Giant Desert Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis).(ref) These scorpions thrive in the state’s arid regions, often seeking shelter under rocks or in crevices, and are known for their potent venom and nocturnal behavior.
18. North Carolina
North Carolina is home to the Southern Devil Scorpion (Vaejovis carolinianus), primarily found in the western regions of the state.(ref) This species prefers humid environments and is often discovered under logs, stones, or in wood piles, although it can occasionally enter homes
19. Kansas
Kansas hosts the Striped Bark Scorpion, particularly in its southern and western regions, where it can be found under rocks and logs.(ref)
While their sting is generally not severe, it can be painful and may pose a risk to individuals with allergies or weakened immune systems.
20. South Carolina
In South Carolina, the Southern Unstriped Scorpion, also known as the Southern Devil Scorpion (Vaejovis carolinianus), is the most commonly found species,(ref) typically residing in moist areas like under logs and leaf litter.
Although encounters with scorpions are relatively rare, they can occasionally be found in homes, especially in crawl spaces or basements.
21. Tennessee
Tennessee is home to the Southern Devil Scorpion, which can be found in the western and middle parts of the state.(ref) These scorpions prefer habitats with plenty of moisture and are often found under debris or in wooded areas, though they are not typically considered a threat to humans.
22. Arkansas
Arkansas hosts several scorpion species, including the Striped Bark Scorpion (Centruroides vittatus), which is commonly found in the state.(ref) These scorpions thrive in humid environments and are often found in leaf litter, under logs, and in other sheltered areas.
23. Louisiana
Louisiana has a variety of scorpion species, including the Southern Unstriped Scorpion, which is prevalent in the state.(ref) These scorpions are typically found in moist, wooded areas and can occasionally make their way into homes, particularly in crawl spaces and basements.
24. Oklahoma
The Striped bark scorpion is the most common scorpion in Oklahoma. They like to live under boards, stones, or or beneath loose bark on trees and logs.(ref)
25. Mississippi
There are two scorpion species that call Mississippi home: Southern Devil Scorpion or unstriped scorpion (usually found in the Tishomingo County) and the striped scorpion (often distributed around Jackson and the Gulf Coast).(ref)
26. Georgia
Georgia is home to three scorpion species: the Southern unstriped scorpion, striped bark scorpion, and Florida bark scorpion (Centruroides gracilis).(ref) They tend to hang out in wooded forests, logs, and humid corners.
27. Alabama
Alabama has two scorpion species that are native to the state: the Hentz striped scorpion (Centruroides hentzi) and the Southern unstriped scorpion. The Hentz striped scorpion inhabits Florida, Georgia’s coastal plain, and Alabama’s coastal counties. The southern unstriped scorpion prefers the piedmont and mountainous regions of Alabama.(ref)
28. Texas
Texas is home to numerous scorpion species, including the Texas cave scorpion (Pseudouroctonus reddelli).(ref) These dark-colored scorpions prefer caves, grottos, and limestone karst formations along the Balcones Escarpment.
29. Florida
Florida features various scorpion species; the most common scorpion is the Florida bark scorpion (Centruroides gracilis).(ref) These scorpions are nocturnal, hiding under logs, bark, boards, or debris during the day. They often enter homes and prey on termites, insects, and spiders.
Remember, awareness and preparedness are your best defenses to ensure your outdoor adventures remain enjoyable and scorpion-free.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.