How to Identify a Desert Hairy Scorpion

The Desert Hairy Scorpion is the common name for Hadrurus arizonensis. It is a hardy species and common in pet collections, although it does not breed in captivity and can have trouble molting. The following steps will help you identify this well-known scorpion.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Identify the Desert Hairy Scorpion by the brown hairs over much of its body, especially its claws. These hairs are sensitive and used to detect prey. This species is usually brown-yellow on the back and yellow to yellow-green everywhere else.
2. Realize that this is the largest scorpion in North America and can attain a total body length of 6 inches. The general build is typical for a scorpion with the telson (tail) being longer than the body.
3. Look for this nocturnal species at night with an ultraviolet lamp. Like most scorpions, it fluoresces under ultraviolet light. It is an active burrower and also likes to hide under rocks during the day.
4. Understand the Desert Hairy Scorpion's toxicity and aggression. Although this species is aggressive and stings readily, it is not considered dangerous to humans.
5. Capture the Desert Hairy Scorpion in the wild if you live in Arizona or southern California. As a desert species, it is tolerant of heat but highly sensitive to humidity. It also prefers to remain in its burrow during the winter.

Tips & Warnings

• All scorpions have some venom but this species' venom is considered weak. Some individuals may be allergic to it, however.