Striped Bark Scorpion

Centruroides vittatus, commonly known as the striped bark scorpion, is a venomous arachnid belonging to the family Buthidae, recognized as the most widespread scorpion species in the south-central United States. Adults typically measure 2.5 to 7 cm in length, exhibiting a yellowish-tan to dark tan coloration with two characteristic dark, longitudinal stripes on the carapace. They possess slender pedipalps and an elongated metasoma ending in a telson (stinger). The life cycle involves live birth (viviparous) of 13-47 young, which are carried on the mother's back until their first molt. Development from birth to maturity can take 3-8 months, and individuals can live for 2-6 years. They are most active at temperatures between 20-350C.

Striped bark scorpions are primarily nocturnal predators, emerging from their daytime harborage to hunt insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. They employ a 'sit-and-wait' predatory strategy or actively forage for prey. Their venom is primarily neurotoxic, used for both subduing prey and defense; while generally not life-threatening to healthy adults, stings can be painful and cause localized swelling, numbness, and muscle cramps. Scorpions are thigmotactic, preferring to squeeze into tight spaces, and are negatively geotactic, often climbing vertical surfaces. They are most active during warm months and seek shelter in cooler, moister microhabitats during the day.