Quick Answer
Texas is home to 18 species of scorpions, but the most common is the Striped Bark Scorpion (Centruroides vittatus), which accounts for over 90% of scorpion encounters in the state. It is pale yellow with two dark stripes running down its back. Other species include the Texas Cave Scorpion, Southern Devil Scorpion, and the Giant Hairy Scorpion. Only the Striped Bark Scorpion is considered medically significant, though its sting is rarely life-threatening.
Texas Scorpion Identification Guide
Scorpions are common throughout Texas, from the Piney Woods to the Trans-Pecos. While most people fear scorpions, the vast majority of Texas scorpion species are not dangerous to humans. This guide covers the most common species you are likely to encounter in and around your home.
For scorpion sting treatment, see our Texas Scorpion Sting Treatment Guide. For Arizona scorpions, see our Arizona Scorpion Species Guide.
Common Texas Scorpion Species
| Species | Size | Color | Venom Risk | Habitat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Striped Bark Scorpion | 2-3 inches | Pale yellow with 2 dark stripes | Low (mild, like bee sting) | Bark, woodpiles, inside homes |
| Texas Cave Scorpion | 1-2 inches | Light brown to tan | Very low | Caves, rocky areas, central Texas |
| Southern Devil Scorpion | 1-1.5 inches | Dark brown to black | Low | Leaf litter, under rocks, east Texas |
| Giant Hairy Scorpion | 4-5 inches | Dark brown to black | Very low | Desert, west Texas, under rocks |
| Striped Tail Scorpion | 1.5-2 inches | Yellow with dark striped tail | Low | Central and west Texas, arid areas |
| Eastern Sand Scorpion | 1.5-2.5 inches | Yellow to tan | Very low | Sandy soils, east Texas |
Striped Bark Scorpion: The One You Need to Know
The Striped Bark Scorpion is by far the most common scorpion in Texas. It is found in all 254 Texas counties and is the species most likely to enter homes. It is pale yellow to tan with two dark longitudinal stripes running down the top of the carapace (back) and a dark triangular mark on the front of the head. The tail is slender and pale. It is the only Texas scorpion species whose sting is considered medically significant, though it is rarely dangerous to healthy adults.
Scorpion Identification by Region
Central Texas (Austin, San Antonio, Hill Country)
The Striped Bark Scorpion dominates. It is common in homes, especially in new developments built on former ranchland. The Texas Cave Scorpion is found in limestone karst areas.
East Texas (Houston, Dallas, Piney Woods)
The Southern Devil Scorpion is common in leaf litter and under logs. The Striped Bark Scorpion is also present but less abundant than in central Texas.
West Texas (El Paso, Big Bend, Permian Basin)
The Giant Hairy Scorpion is the most impressive species at 4-5 inches. The Striped Bark Scorpion and Striped Tail Scorpion are also common.
South Texas (Rio Grande Valley, Coastal Bend)
The Striped Bark Scorpion is the primary species. Scorpion encounters are more common in rural and agricultural areas.
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Scorpion Sting Severity
| Species | Sting Severity | Symptoms | Medical Attention Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Striped Bark Scorpion | Mild to moderate | Local pain, numbness, tingling; rarely systemic | For children, elderly, or severe symptoms |
| Texas Cave Scorpion | Very mild | Local pain, mild swelling | No |
| Southern Devil Scorpion | Very mild | Local pain, mild swelling | No |
| Giant Hairy Scorpion | Mild (less than bee sting) | Local pain, mild swelling | No |
| Striped Tail Scorpion | Mild | Local pain, mild swelling | No |
How to Identify Scorpions Around Your Home
- Use a UV (blacklight) flashlight at night — scorpions glow bright blue-green under UV light
- Check the stripes — two dark stripes on the back indicate a Striped Bark Scorpion
- Check the size — Giant Hairy Scorpions are 4-5 inches, others are 1-3 inches
- Check the color — pale yellow indicates Striped Bark or Sand Scorpion; dark brown indicates Devil or Cave Scorpion
- Consider the location — different species dominate different regions of Texas
FAQ: Texas Scorpion Identification
Are Texas scorpions dangerous?
No Texas scorpion species is considered life-threatening to healthy adults. The Striped Bark Scorpion's sting can cause significant pain, numbness, and tingling, but it is rarely dangerous. Children, the elderly, and those allergic to insect venom should seek medical attention if stung.
How do I keep scorpions out of my house?
Seal cracks and gaps in the foundation, install door sweeps, remove woodpiles and debris from near the house, trim vegetation away from the foundation, and use a UV flashlight at night to locate and remove scorpions.
Sources: US Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Wildlife Services, state wildlife agencies, CDC, academic extension services. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional wildlife management advice.