Identifying Local Scorpions
Scorpions are arachnids. As such they have four pairs of legs. In addition to this, they have two crab-like pincers and a segmented tail with a stinger on the tip of it. There over 70 species of scorpions living in the United States.
Three species of scorpion that are common to the Las Vegas area are bark scorpions, emperor scorpions, and desert hairy scorpions.
Bark scorpions are tan or yellowish. They grow to an average of three inches long. They prefer cool moist environments. This means they are often found under rocks or burrowed beneath trees. But these scorpions will come indoors in search of a refuge from the desert heat. These are the most venomous scorpions in North America. Though not every sting from a bark scorpion will be fatal, for at-risk groups such as children and the elderly, stings can prove deadly. No matter what, if you are stung by a bark scorpion, you should consult a medical expert.
Emperor scorpions have shiny black bodies that grow to be an average of eight inches long. They often reside in areas with dense forest debris and leaves and tend to live in large groups. These scorpions do not sting as a mode of killing prey, but they will sting if they feel threatened. However, their venom poses no threat to humans. As such, the only danger they pose to humans is the pain of the sting.
Desert Hairy Scorpions
As their name suggests, these scorpions have hairs on their tails and olive and tan-colored bodies. They are the longest scorpions in the United States, measuring in at an average of six inches long. They prefer cool, dark areas where they can avoid the heat. This could be somewhere inside your home. Like the emperor scorpion, desert hairy scorpions will only sting if they feel threatened. Their stings, also, do not contain venom that is dangerous to humans.