Leslie Massey
Scorpions are found in many parts of Australia, including Brownhill Creek, South Australia, and the arid scrubland of New South Wales. Australia has quite a few scorpion species, including the forest scorpion or wood scorpion (Cercophonius squama), which is native to south-eastern Australia, and the Flinders Ranges scorpion (Urodacus elongatus).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Species | Urodacus elongatus, Urodacus planimanus, Urodacus armatus, Cercophonius squama, Urodacus manicatus, Lychas marmoreus, Isometroides angusticaudus, Lychas variatus, Isometroides vescus, Flinders ranges scorpion, Granite scorps, Marbled scorpion |
| Length | Up to 12 cm (4.7 in) long |
| Color | Light brown, dark brown, black, yellow, orange-brown, creamy yellow |
| Behavior | Nocturnal, sedentary, defensive |
| Diet | Ground-nesting spiders |
| Habitat | Arid regions, scrubland, desert areas, wood or forest, granite outcrops, under bark or in a woodpile |
| Location | Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales, South Australia, Northern Territory, Western Australia |
| Venom | Not deadly, relatively harmless |
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What You'll Learn
Scorpion species in Australia
Australia is home to a wide variety of scorpions, with estimates suggesting that there could be more than 100 species. However, less than 10% of Australian scorpions are known to science, indicating that many more species remain to be discovered. Scorpions are common arachnids found in gardens and forests throughout Australia, but they typically live in remote habitats, so they are not often seen. They are mostly nocturnal, but they can be active during the day, especially during prolonged wet weather.
Scorpions in Australia come in a variety of sizes and colours, with some growing up to 12 cm long. They are easily distinguished by their long, curved tails, which feature a stinger at the end, and a pair of pincers on long arms, known as pedipalps, at the front of the body. Despite having six to twelve eyes, scorpions do not have good eyesight, although they can distinguish light from dark and have excellent low-light sensitivity, helping them avoid harsh sunlight.
One common species found in Australia is the Desert Scorpion, which is large, aggressive, and widespread throughout the Australian deserts. It constructs deep spiral burrows up to 1 metre deep in sandy soils to shelter from the extreme daytime heat. Another species, the Marbled Scorpion, is small (1.5-4 cm) and mottled, and is mainly found in gum forests in southern Australia, although it has been known to enter people's homes.
The Wood or Forest Scorpion is a thick-set species that can be creamy yellow to orange-brown with darker brown or light brown patterning. It is found in forest habitats in leaf litter and logs, sometimes even in suburban gardens, across southwestern and eastern mainland Australia and Tasmania. It is the only scorpion species found in Tasmania. This species prefers habitats with high moisture levels and usually spends the summer months in its burrow.
The scorpion genus Urodacus is endemic to mainland Australia and represents one of the largest diversities of scorpion species on the continent. Most Urodacus species live in deep spiralling burrows, enabling them to survive in arid ecosystems. Some Urodacus species are known to live for 15-20 years in the wild, but their longevity is usually less than a year in captivity.
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Are scorpions venomous?
While all scorpions are venomous, not all scorpion species are dangerous to humans. Scorpions use their venomous stings to immobilize and kill their prey—typically spiders, snails, lizards, rodents, snakes, and other scorpions. They also use their venom for self-defence against predators, larger animals, and rival scorpions in territorial disputes.
Scorpion venom is an offensive weapon, and its potency varies across scorpion species. Only 30 to 40 scorpion species worldwide are considered deadly to healthy adult humans. The Arizona bark scorpion, for example, is the most lethal scorpion species in the United States. It is found throughout the Southwestern states of Arizona, Nevada, California, and New Mexico. While its sting can be deadly, deaths from the Arizona bark scorpion are rare due to medical advances and the availability of antivenom.
The Centruroides vittatus, or the Striped Bark Scorpion, is another venomous scorpion species. Its sting is generally not considered dangerous unless the person stung has anaphylaxis or a medical condition such as hypertension. Similarly, most scorpion stings are not life-threatening to healthy adults, and symptoms are often similar to those of bee and wasp stings. These include sharp pain, burning, redness, swelling, numbness, and tingling at the site of the sting, as well as dizziness, sweating, and headaches.
It is important to note that scorpion stings can be more harmful to young children. If stung by a scorpion, it is recommended to clean the area with soap and water, apply ice to reduce pain and swelling, and seek medical attention if necessary.
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Where are scorpions found in Australia?
Scorpions in Australia are relatively harmless and are found in a variety of habitats throughout the country. They are typically found in remote habitats and are nocturnal, so they are not often seen. They can be found in arid regions, such as the deserts of Australia's interior, where they construct deep, spiral burrows to escape the extreme heat during the day. They are also found in the rainforests of Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales, where they use their large claws to cling to rock and log crevices.
Scorpions in Australia come in a variety of sizes and colours, ranging from dark grey to light brown or gold, with lighter-coloured legs. Some common species found in Australia include the desert scorpion, which is large, aggressive, and widespread throughout the deserts; the marbled scorpion, which is small and found in southern Australia; and the flinders ranges scorpion, which is also kept as a pet by some Australians.
Scorpions are also found in the hills east of Perth, where they are known as the granite scorps or plani's. They are found in gum forests, sand dunes, and salt lakes in South Australia and Western Australia. They are known to occasionally enter people's homes, especially the smaller species of scorpions.
The lack of native mammals, particularly digging species, has contributed to the increase in scorpion populations in some areas. Researchers have found that the presence of digging animals and the activities of native mammals can help to control scorpion numbers.
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How big are scorpions in Australia?
Australia is home to a wide variety of scorpions, with over 100 species found across the country. These scorpions vary in size, with lengths ranging from 2 to 12 centimetres. While the majority of scorpions in Australia are relatively harmless, some species are known to be venomous, although their stings are typically not fatal and rarely require medical assistance.
Scorpions in Australia exhibit a diverse range of adaptations and behaviours. Some scorpions, such as the Buthidae family, are well-adapted to the rainforests of Queensland and north-eastern New South Wales. They possess large claws that enable them to grasp onto rock and log crevices, providing shelter from predators and an ambush point for prey. Other species, like the Little Mottled Scorpion, are predominantly found in gum forests and have been known to enter human dwellings.
The Australian landscape offers a variety of habitats for scorpions, including rainforests and deserts. The arid regions of Australia, particularly the damaged, sandy deserts, provide ideal conditions for scorpions to thrive. In these areas, ecologists have discovered a high density of scorpion burrows, with up to 600 burrows per hectare. The absence of native mammals, specifically digging species like bilbies, has contributed to the proliferation of scorpion populations in these regions.
The size of scorpions in Australia can vary depending on the specific species and habitat. For example, the Little Marbled Scorpion, or Lychas marmoreus, is a smaller scorpion species found in Australia. On the other hand, the Urodacus elongatus, commonly known as the Flinders Ranges Scorpion, can reach larger sizes. Additionally, scorpions found in arid regions may grow bigger due to the lack of predators and competition.
In summary, scorpions in Australia can range in size from a few centimetres to around 12 centimetres in length. The diversity of scorpion species and habitats across Australia results in variations in their size and behaviour. While most scorpions in Australia are not considered dangerous, it is important to exercise caution and avoid close contact with these arachnids.
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How to handle scorpions
Scorpions are found in many places around the world, including Australia. The Australian state of New South Wales, for example, is home to scorpions that thrive in arid regions. Australia also has quite a few scorpion species, and some people even keep them as pets.
If you encounter a scorpion, it is important to know how to handle the situation safely. Here are some tips on how to handle scorpions:
- Scorpions are predatory arachnids, related to spiders, and they can be dangerous. They are not insects, and they can climb almost any surface except for glass or similarly smooth and slick substances.
- If you find a scorpion in your home, it is best to contact pest control professionals to remove them safely. You can also implement preventative measures, such as sealing entry points and keeping your home insect-free, to reduce the likelihood of scorpions entering your home.
- If you are stung by a scorpion, the wound may not be easily visible, and it is important to seek medical attention, especially if you have any allergies or ongoing reactions. As a first-aid measure, you can apply a paste made of meat tenderizer and water to help neutralize the discomfort. The tenderizer must contain papain (derived from papayas) as the primary ingredient, as it is an enzyme that breaks down the proteins in scorpion venom.
- If you choose to keep a scorpion as a pet, it is important to allow it to become accustomed to its environment and your presence before attempting to handle it. Initially, you can gently pet its tail or use a soft object if it appears aggressive. You can then use a washcloth or a paper plate to nudge its tail gently so it walks onto your hand. It is important to remember that handling scorpions can be stressful for them, and it may be better to avoid it unless necessary.
- When handling a scorpion, it is recommended to set it down a few feet away from you and provide something for it to hide in. This will help the scorpion feel more secure and reduce the likelihood of it feeling threatened.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, scorpions are found in Australia.
Scorpions are found in the arid regions of Australia, such as the Australian state of New South Wales, and in the deserts of central Australia. They are also found in the southern, southeastern, and northwestern parts of the country, including Tasmania.
Australian scorpions can grow up to 12 centimetres long, but most are smaller, ranging from 4 to 7 centimetres in length.
Australian scorpions are not deadly, and their venom is primarily used for catching prey. However, some people with bee allergies may have a reaction to it.
