Skip to content
Hentz Striped Scorpion on white background

Hentz Striped Scorpion

Actual Size: Approximately 1 ½ inches in length

Characteristics: Males are smaller and more slender, whereas females are larger and rounder. Their coloration consists of light mottled brown with dispersed lines extending from a yellow median stripe, a pale underside, and marbled brown mouths and legs.

Legs: 8

Antennae: None

Wings: None

Habitat: They are commonly found under rocks, logs, bark, and debris, where they seek shelter during the day. They can also enter homes in search of small insects.

Habits:

  • It feeds on small insects, arachnids, and other arthropods.
  • Its sting can be painful but is generally not life-threatening to humans.
  • It is most active at night, hunting for prey during the cooler hours.

Hentz Striped Scorpion in Florida

The Hentz Striped Scorpion, scientifically named Centruroides hentzi, is found primarily in the southeastern United States, including Florida. A member of the bark scorpion family, it grows to approximately 1 ½ inches, exhibiting a light mottled brown coloration and a pale underside. Its diet consists mainly of insects like roaches and termites. Notably, this scorpion has sex-specific venom, a rare trait among scorpion species.

Hentz Striped Scorpion Habitat

Preferring sheltered locations such as beneath logs, stones, and tree debris, the Hentz Striped Scorpion can also be found as high as 20 feet on dead tree bark or at the base of pines. These scorpions are nocturnal, often emerging at night to hunt for prey like insects and arachnids. Its natural predators, including woodpeckers and tree frogs, help control the scorpion’s numbers.

Hentz Striped Scorpion Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Although their stings can be quite painful, they usually do not cause lasting harm or serious medical issues. This makes the Hentz Striped Scorpion less hazardous than other venomous species. They play an important role in the ecosystem, but it’s still wise to exercise caution due to their painful sting. If you encounter one, it’s best to call a professional scorpion exterminator for quick removal.

Related Pests