Wild Lives: Scorpion King

Giant Hairy Scorpions are the largest scorpions in the country

They may not be the most venomous scorpions on the block, but Giant Hairy Scorpions (Hadrurus spp) can grow to lengths of over 6 inches, making them the biggest scorpions in the United States. Nocturnal predators, they survive intense desert temperatures in the southwestern corner of the country by burrowing up to 8 inches into the ground during the day. Their curved stingers pack a mildly toxic punch, but their most potent weapons are their pincers, which they use to crush and tear their prey. Although they look like clawed arms, these pincers are actually part of the scorpion's mouth.

Giant Hairy Scorpion. Like all scorpions, female Giant Hairy Scorpions give birth to live young. After birth, the offspring crawl up on their mothers' backs and hitch a free ride for a week or two before heading off on their own. Photo: Arie van der Meijden, CAS.

Giant Hairy Scorpion. Like all scorpions, female Giant Hairy Scorpions give birth to live young. After birth, the offspring crawl up on their mothers' backs and hitch a free ride for a week or two before heading off on their own. Photo: Arie van der Meijden, CAS.

Below: Scientists who search for elusive scorpions often use a surprising tool ­ black lights. Most scorpions give off a greenish-blue glow under these rays.
Scientists who search for elusive scorpions often use a surprising tool ­ black lights. Most scorpions give off a greenish-blue glow under these rays. Photo: Zoltan Takacs.