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Wildlife Wednesday -- Striped Bark Scorpion From October 23 through November 22, the Ancients (as well as modern-day astrology buffs) believed the planet and human affairs fall under the influence of the astrological sign Scorpio – the Scorpion.
If you live in Harris County, you might get a chance to observe this firsthand on November 6 for Wildlife Wednesday. At 10 a.m. you will have a chance to encounter our resident arachnid, Scorpia V, the Striped Bark Scorpion (Centruoides vittatus). A member of the order Scorpionida, scorpions are non-insect arthropods. They are arachnids. There are more than 1,500 known species of scorpion across the world and about 20 live in Texas. However, only one of these species is commonly found in East Texas, the Striped Bark Scorpion, and – as mentioned – yes, it does live in Harris County.
The Striped Bark Scorpion is a medium-sized scorpion, usually around 2.5 inches in length. These scorpions are usually yellowish to tan, marked with two broad, blackish stripes on the upper surface of the abdomen and with a dark triangular patch near the head. The tail is longer in males than females and like other arachnids, they have eight legs.
Scorpions of the genus Centruroides are active foragers and do not burrow. As their common name indicates, they are considered “bark scorpions” with a distinct association with dead vegetation, fallen logs, and human dwellings. It is common for scorpions to climb, and many reports in homes are associated with attics. Scorpions remain sheltered in the daytime and become active at night. This behavior helps with regulating temperature (thermoregulation) and water balance. Their bodies are covered with a waxy cuticle which also helps reduce water loss. For reasons yet unknown, the scorpion cuticle fluoresces under ultraviolet light (a blacklight). That helps a lot if you are hiking at night and wish to avoid any unpleasant encounters. Many types of scorpions glow a bluish-green hue, including the Texas Striped Bark Scorpion. This glow is the byproduct of their chemical makeup and is most visible once the scorpions shed or molt the outer layer of their skin. Striped Bark Scorpions produce this fluorescent light because their bodies pick up UV light and convert it to blue-green wavelengths, much like their eyes. Some researchers think this chemical reaction gives them the ability to sense the environment around them. So, by glowing, scorpions essentially turn their bodies into a visual light source.
But what about their reproductive lives? Mating apparently takes place in the fall, spring and early summer. All scorpions are born alive (they are viviparous), and embryos are nourished in the female’s body (in utero or via a “placental” connection). Development (gestation) is estimated to take about 8 months, but varies depending on the species. Young scorpions are born in litters ranging in numbers from 13 to 47, averaging about 31. The young climb to the mother’s back after birth and soon molt. After the first molt they disperse to lead independent lives. Immature scorpions molt an average of six times before maturity. Some species may live for 20 to 25 years but the typical scorpion probably lives between three and eight years. Adults may produce several broods throughout the year.
So, what happens if you are stung by a scorpion? Although non-lethal, stings are painful and may produce reactions including edema (swelling), discoloration, numbness, and pain which may last for several minutes to several days. Fortunately, there are no scorpions in Texas that are considered lethal to man. That being said, anyone allergic to bee stings -- or an any way susceptible to anaphylactic shock -- should be particularly careful to avoid scorpions. If you are stung by a scorpion, get to a hospital immediately. The Striped Bark Scorpion is one of the most venomous species of scorpion found in Texas. They secrete a neurotoxic venom that can make humans highly uncomfortable, thanks to the swelling, inflammation, and pain it causes. Thousands of people are stung each year when walking around barefoot or while rooting through piles of rocks or wood while not wearing gloves. The pain and discomfort from the sting will last for several days, though. You can treat a striped bark scorpion sting by icing the wound first, then following up with over-the-counter pain relief options. When in doubt, always seek medical attention.
So where could someone possibly encounter on of these interesting creatures?
As mentioned earlier, scorpions tend to like the rocky area of central Texas, but they also live in the pine forests of eastern Texas. If you live in the city, you have much less chance of coming across one, but it’s not impossible. Despite the image of scorpions as desert animals, striped bark scorpions prefer cool, moist environments. The Striped Bark Scorpion's behavior is primarily motivated by a need to conserve the water in its body. Warm sunlight will evaporate their body water and K*ll them quickly. Because of this, they are almost exclusively nocturnal. They will tend to stay in cracks, crevices, and dark places, particularly where this is moisture to be found. However, scorpions tend to seek out cool spots, so be wary of picking up large rocks and piles of wood debris. One of the primary skills of the striped bark scorpion is climbing, which is why people often find them in their attics.
To learn more about Scorpia V and her relatives, join us in the Nature Center at Jesse Jones Park for Wildlife Wednesday on November 6 at 10 a.m. Scorpia V will be on hand for visitors to have a much closer encounter with this fascinating creature.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
20634 Kenswick Dr, Humble, TX, United States, Texas 77338
