Florida Bark Scorpion

Category:

Actual Size: 10 cm (females), 15 cm (males)

Characteristics: Has varied coloring, ranging from reddish black to dark brown. Also has reddish claws, yellowish legs, and a dark tail.

Legs: 8

Antennae: None

Wings: None

Habitat: These scorpions live under rocks and tree bark, but also seek out rubbish piles and inner walls of homes.

Habits:

  • Feeds primarily on crickets, roaches, and other small insects
  • Nocturnal and predatory โ€“ seeking prey at night.
  • Can climb trees and enter homes easily with their flattened bodies.

Florida Bark Scorpion in Florida

The Florida Bark Scorpion, scientifically known as Centruroides gracilis, is also known as the brown bark scorpion or slender brown scorpion. This member of the bark scorpion family flaunts a slender brown appearance. These critters can stretch up to four inches and flaunt a brown hue completed with light-colored legs and distinctive yellow dashes across their backs.ย 

These scorpions have a life expectancy of between 33 to 38 months, and their natural predators are primarily tarantulas. Their diet primarily consists of other insects such as roaches, termites, and crickets, making them a natural option for pest control.

Florida Bark Scorpion Habitat

Despite its name, it’s not originally from Florida but comes from the Middle Americas. Mostly active at night, Florida bark scorpions prefer the secluded underside of boards in newly constructed and abandoned buildings. In search of food (small insects), these scorpions will also climb trees and enter Florida homes through any cracks they can find.

Florida Bark Scorpion Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Although their sting is severely painful, itโ€™s less venomous than that of their Central and South American cousins, who dwell in Florida’s tropical zones. If you’re unlucky enough to experience a sting, the immediate symptoms might include pain, redness, itching, and swelling. In more severe cases, the sting could lead to cardiac symptoms, nausea, vomiting, shock, and even coma. If you spot a scorpion, contact a professional scorpion exterminator for prompt pest control.