The Desert Hairy Scorpion is the largest scorpion in North America, reaching 5–6 inches, with a yellowish body covered in sensory brown hairs that detect vibrations in the sand. Its venom is relatively mild compared to smaller species and comparable to a bee sting for most people. It is a nocturnal burrower in sandy desert soils and is a popular terrarium animal.
Habitat
Desert bajadas, sandy washes, and rocky hillsides of the Sonoran Desert
Diet
Adults: large insects, other scorpions, lizards, and small rodents
How common
Uncommon
Recent Desert Hairy Scorpion sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Desert Hairy Scorpion? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant or animal and get an instant ID, rarity, and field notes — building your personal nature collection as you go.
Get Huck — free