Florida Bark Scorpion (Centruroides gracilis)

What Is a Florida Bark Scorpion?

The Florida bark scorpion, sometimes called the slenderbrown scorpion, is the most common scorpion South Florida homeowners encounter. It hides under bark, debris and landscape materials during the day and hunts insects at night. Occasionally it wanders into garages, lanais and homes, where people may find it in shoes, towels or laundry.

Life Cycle and Habits

Females give birth to live young, which ride on her back until their first molt. Scorpions are nocturnal and feed on insects and other small arthropods. They can go a long time without eating.

Why They Show Up in South Florida Homes

Mulch, wood piles, palm boots, stone borders and clutter provide shelter. Plenty of insects provide food. They come in through gaps under doors and garage doors.

Prevention Tips

• Shake out shoes, gloves and towels.
• Remove debris, wood piles and stacked materials near the home.
• Seal gaps under doors and garage doors.
• Reduce insects with regular pest control.

Where Scorpions Hide Around South Florida Homes

Bark scorpions like tight, dark spaces with a little moisture. Around local homes, that often means the loose fibers in palm boots, the gaps under landscape pavers and stepping stones, stacks of roof tiles or pavers left from a project, firewood and lumber, hurricane shutters stored along the side of the house, and the space under potted plants. Mulch beds that stay damp from irrigation and attract insects can hold scorpions right next to the foundation. Indoors, they tend to end up in garages, laundry rooms, bathrooms and closets near exterior doors.

Protecting Kids and Pets

Teach children not to pick up scorpions or reach under rocks and logs. Keep shoes off the floor and on racks, check bedding that touches the floor, and pull beds and cribs slightly away from walls. Curious pets may get stung on the nose or paws. Watch for swelling, drooling or limping and call your veterinarian if you're concerned.

Frequently Asked Questions