Scorpions are not insects. They are, however very closely related to spiders. Scorpions have eight legs and a pair of pedipalps, or pincers. The last segment of the tail is bulb-like with a stinger and contains poison glands. Scorpions usually only sting when they are mishandled or become trapped against the skin by crawling into shoes or clothing. The majority of scorpions found in the United States are not very dangerous. But, care should be exercised when a scorpion is encountered.

Female scorpions produce live young, which crawl onto her back until after the first molt. Scorpions can usually be located under river rock, woodpiles and other debris that will provide sufficient protection. They generally become active at night and can be located by using a blacklight, or UV bulb. When shining a blacklight on scorpions, they will fluoresce and glow in the light. To help keep scorpions from moving into your home, remove debris, seal cracks and crevices around doors and windows and store firewood away from your home