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Please be sure to read the product label of any insecticide you choose to use to get information on the personal protective safety gear you will need. In most situations, it is recommended that you wear long pants, a long sleeved shirt, closed toe shoes with socks, chemical resistant gloves, and goggles. In areas where ventilation is poor, a manufacturer may recommend you wear a mask or a respirator. We have put together two different safety kits that will make selecting the correct safety gear easier for you.

Scorpions Identification Guide

What Do Scorpions Look Like?

By DoMyOwn staff
Overview
Image of a scorpion on sand

Scorpions are pests that, while not as common as ants and cockroaches, can be found in homes and yards across the United States. Scorpions will not cause damage to your belongings, but their stings can be bothersome.

Knowing what type of scorpions live in your region is important in the event of a scorpion sting. Medically significant scorpion stings are rare, but do exist.

If you have a pest you suspect is a scorpion, use our guide below to make a positive identification.

Size
Graphics comparing the sizes of the largest and smallest scorpions in the world

Scorpions range from 0.3 inches to 9 inches long, depending on their age.

Shape
Diagram of scorpion anatomy

Scorpions have 8 legs and 2 pincers, or chelae. They have curled tails that end with a stinger and multiple eyes on their head. Scorpions have a thick head and abdomen.

Color
Image montage of various colors of scorpions

Scorpions range in color. Most scorpions are yellow or black to provide camouflage, allowing them to blend in with their surroundings. Scorpions can also be red or brown.

Range
Map showing the range of scorpions in the United States

Scorpions are most prevalent in the American Southwest but can be found across the United States in all climates.

Suspect you have scorpions? Learn where scorpions hide in your home and how to get rid of scorpions by reading the rest of our guide. Click the right arrow below to read more.

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