Desert hairy scorpions are found throughout the deserts of the southwestern U.S., as well as Utah and Nevada. They are the largest scorpion species in North America. Although venomous, their venom is not toxic to humans.
The life of a desert hairy scorpion
Desert hairy scorpions grow four to seven inches long, weigh up to a quarter of an ounce and live 10 years in the wild, or up to 20 years in human care. They are nocturnal, avoiding the heat of the daytime by burrowing in rock crevices and holes.
Desert hairy scorpions lock their claws, called pedipals, when mating and move back and forth in a complex dance. Once mating is complete females give birth to about 30 young anywhere from six to 12 months later. Newly born scorpions ride on the mother's back for about three weeks until they shed their skin for the first time and become independent. Males take no part in parenting and are sometimes eaten by females.
Desert hairy scorpions are carnivores that feast on insects, lizards and smaller scorpions. They hunt by ambush, hiding inside burrows to attack prey. They use the hair on the body to feel vibrations that alert them to potential prey and threatening predators, which include owls, bats, lizards and snakes.
Desert hairy scorpions at the zoo
Located in the Insect Zoo.
