Scorpion
Scorpions are predatory arachnids with eight legs, grasping pedipalps, and a segmented tail ending in a venomous stinger.
Scorpions are arachnids with eight legs, pincers, and a venomous stinger. Most of the 1,500 known species cause painful but not life-threatening stings.
What it is
Scorpions are predatory arachnids, related to spiders and ticks. Their body has two main parts, grasping pincers, and a segmented tail tipped with a venomous stinger. All species produce venom, used to subdue prey and for defence.
Where they live and what they eat
Scorpions live on every continent except Antarctica, in deserts, grasslands, forests, and even human buildings. They are nocturnal hunters that feed mainly on insects and other small arthropods, ambushing prey with their pincers and venom.
Why it matters to you
Though most scorpion stings are painful but not dangerous, a few species—like the Arizona bark scorpion in North America—can cause serious symptoms. Basic first aid includes cleaning the sting, applying ice, and using pain relief; seek urgent care for severe reactions or if a child is stung.
In short
- Scorpions are arachnids, not insects.
- All scorpions have venom, but few are dangerous to humans.
- They are nocturnal predators that eat insects and small animals.
- Lifespan is typically 3–5 years.
Scorpions are not native to most of Canada, but Canadian readers may encounter them in captivity, travel, or imported goods. Information on sting first aid and poison-centre guidance is still relevant to Canadians travelling in regions where dangerous scorpions occur.
Quick questions
Are scorpions dangerous?
What do scorpions eat?
How long do scorpions live?
Sources
- University of Arizona Health Sciences — https://healthsciences.arizona.edu/news/blog/what-you-need-know-about-scorpion-stingsSupports: North American danger, poison control guidance, home care, antivenom use, and severity notes
- WebMD — https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/scorpions-what-to-knowSupports: Scorpion diet, lifespan, number of dangerous species, sting symptoms, and basic first aid
- Poison Control — https://www.poison.org/articles/scorpionsSupports: Severity of stings, symptom progression, home treatment, and antivenom for serious Centruroides stings
- Nature — https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms?Supports: Scientific context for scorpion biology and venom; general background only
- NCBI Bookshelf (StatPearls) — https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430928/Supports: Medical overview of scorpion envenomation and supportive care
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance — https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/scorpionSupports: General scorpion biology, number of species, diet, and human danger assessment
- Museums Victoria — https://museumsvictoria.com.au/article/scorpion-facts-and-fallacies/Supports: Global mortality context and medically important species distribution