Insects and Spiders - native

California Forest Scorpion (Uroctonus mordax) on Jul 29, 2008

Submitter has sample

Description of specimen

a tiny, gray-brown scorpion, about 2 1/2" from tail to pinchers

Commentary

(I sent this report in yesterday, but without the photo, and I had underestimated the size.)
I don't know if this is an invasive species or not. I didn't think we had scorpions in the wetlands of western Oregon.

Reporter
July 29, 2008, 3:12 a.m.

Hi Cathy, I sent your photo on to the OSU insect lab for identification. As soon as I hear back, I'll let you know.

Lisa DeBruyckere
July 29, 2008, 5:45 a.m.

Hi Cathy, Jim Young from the OSU insect lab says, "It appears to be Uroctonus mordax, the California Forest Scorpion. They are uncommon but widespread. I’ve even had students collect them in the city limits of Corvallis. Their sting is painful but not deadly (unless you have an allergic reaction)."

Lisa DeBruyckere
July 29, 2008, 5:59 a.m.