Las Vegas, located in the Mojave Desert, is home to various species of scorpions. These arachnids have been living in the valley for millions of years and are well-adapted to the arid climate. While scorpion stings are painful, they are rarely life-threatening. By learning about the common species found in the area and understanding where they like to hide, Las Vegas residents can take steps to prevent encounters.
There are a few scorpion species commonly found in and around Las Vegas homes:
The Arizona bark scorpion is the most common scorpion in Las Vegas. It has a light brown color and can grow up to 3 inches long. This scorpion is the most venomous in North America. Its venom can cause severe pain, numbness, and swelling. While very painful, healthy adults rarely have life-threatening reactions. However, medical attention should be sought, especially for stings to children and the elderly.
The desert hairy scorpion has a dark color and can grow up to 5 inches long. It has thicker pincers than other species in the region. While its sting is painful, it is less venomous than the bark scorpion. This scorpion is common to the Las Vegas valley.
As the name implies, the giant hairy scorpion is the largest in the area, growing up to 7 inches long. It has a black color. This scorpion’s venom is relatively mild compared to smaller species. Still, its large size allows it to inject significant amounts of venom when it stings.
Smaller than other species at 2-3 inches long, the striped scorpion has distinctive lighter stripes on its back. Found in southwest states, this scorpion lives in burrows in the ground. Its sting causes mild to moderate pain.
The emperor scorpion is one of the largest scorpion species in the world, with adults reaching 8 inches long. Native to Africa, this scorpion is sometimes kept as an exotic pet. If an emperor scorpion escapes or is released, it can potentially survive in the Las Vegas climate. Though venomous, their stings are comparable to a bee sting.
Scorpions are nocturnal and tend to hide in dark, cool spaces during the hot days. At night, they emerge from their hiding spots to hunt for food. Here are the top places scorpions can be found in and around Las Vegas homes:
Stacks of wood, piles of leaves, compost heaps, and other yard debris make ideal hiding spots for scorpions. Be sure to wear thick gloves and inspect these areas thoroughly before reaching in with bare hands. Scorpions may cling to the underside of debris as well.
Scorpions take shelter under rocks, logs, and other objects resting on the ground. Carefully turn over these items when looking for scorpions. Remember to replace the object after inspection so their habitat is not disturbed.
The shaded, cool area under porches and decks is attractive to scorpions. Use caution when stepping in these areas, especially at night. Install weather stripping around the base of porches to seal gaps scorpions can use to access these spaces.
Crawl spaces offer protection from light and heat. Scorpions may find their way into crawl spaces through small cracks in the foundation. Seal any openings with caulk or foam sealant. Be very cautious when entering crawl spaces and inspect thoroughly. Wear gloves and have a flashlight.
Small gaps where walls meet floors or ceilings are large enough for scorpions to squeeze through. Carefully shine a flashlight in these narrow spaces. Scorpions may cling to the backside, so be prepared when removing baseboards for inspection.
Overlapping sections of siding can create openings for scorpions to enter. Use expanding foam in larger gaps to seal the home exterior. Periodically check siding for new gaps that may develop over time.
The cool, damp soil of potted plants is an environment scorpions find hospitable. Always wear gloves when handling pots and thoroughly inspect the lip of the planter and surface of the soil before touching contents.
Scorpions may crawl into shoes left outside or clothes piled on the floor. Always shake out these items before use. Store shoes in sealed containers and don’t leave clothing on the floor.
Attics and garages tend to be warm, dry, and dark, which suits scorpions quite well. Install weather stripping around attic hatchways and garage door bottoms to deter entry. Thoroughly inspect boxes and storage containers in these areas before reaching inside.
The space under desks, dressers, beds, and other furniture offers shade and seclusion for scorpions. Carefully lift furniture and inspect with a flashlight before placing hands near the floor or ground. Keep furniture a few inches from walls.
Scorpions sometimes find their way into bathtubs and sinks through drains connected to sewer lines. Keep drain covers closed when not in use. Inspect thoroughly if reaching into an unused tub or sink.
Scorpions can crawl into vehicles through small openings. Always inspect thoroughly under seats and in compartments before reaching in. Keep doors and windows tightly sealed when parked.
The enclosed, humid environment of pool pump and filter equipment is an ideal habitat for scorpions. Use extreme caution when servicing pool equipment and wear thick gloves. Inspect closely before reaching in to avoid surprise encounters.
While scorpions are common in the Las Vegas area, there are steps homeowners can take to make properties less attractive:
Seek emergency care immediately if stung, especially children and elderly. For mild stings:
Scorpions are common pests in the Las Vegas valley that homeowners should be aware of. Their venomous stings can have serious effects but are rarely fatal. There are several species adapted to the desert climate that seek refuge in cool, dark spaces. Being watchful when outside and proactive to pest-proof the home can help residents avoid encounters. If stung, promptly seek medical care, capture the scorpion, and have appropriate pest control treatments applied. With proper vigilance and prevention, Las Vegans can peacefully co-exist with these ancient denizens of the desert.
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