Are There Scorpions in Hawaii?
Yes, scorpions are present in Hawaii, primarily the striped bark scorpion and the yellow scorpion. These species are invasive but small, causing only minor local reactions if they sting. Hawaii's warm climate supports established populations, but stings are uncommon and rarely medically serious.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 22, 2026.
Western Forest Scorpion · Seth CC BY
Black Hairy Scorpion · Public domain CC0
Southern Devil Scorpion · Alan Rockefeller CC BY
- 136
- GBIF records
Yes, scorpions are in Hawaii. Next you'll want:
Yes, scorpions are present in Hawaii, primarily the striped bark scorpion and the yellow scorpion. These species are invasive but small, causing only minor local reactions if they sting. Hawaii's warm climate supports established populations, but stings are uncommon and rarely medically serious.
Are they in Hawaii?
Yes, scorpions are established in Hawaii. The primary species is the striped bark scorpion, which arrived via human commerce and now lives on multiple islands including Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii Island. The yellow scorpion also occurs in the state. These are non-native species that have adapted to Hawaii's warm, tropical environment. Unlike their southwestern cousins, Hawaiian scorpions are relatively small and their stings are typically minor. The striped bark scorpion measures about 3 inches long and prefers warm, dry areas. Hawaii's humid climate means scorpions are found mainly in drier regions, particularly around human structures where they hunt for insects. Because these are invasive species, their numbers remain relatively low in most areas. Learn more aboutScorpion in Hawaiito understand how to identify and avoid this introduced species. Information aboutHawaii wildlifeincludes details on both native and invasive species.
How dangerous is it?
The striped bark scorpion found in Hawaii is one of North America's most medically significant scorpions, but even this species rarely causes serious harm. A sting causes immediate pain followed by local redness and swelling that typically resolves within 24 hours. Some people experience mild numbness or tingling around the sting site, but these symptoms are usually minor. Severe reactions are extremely rare and would be most likely in very young children or people with compromised immune systems. Death from a striped bark scorpion sting in Hawaii has not been documented in recent medical records. The yellow scorpion found in Hawaii causes similar minor local reactions. Compared to other stinging arthropods common in Hawaii, such as jellyfish or wasps, scorpion stings represent a minimal health risk. The key point is that scorpion stings are defensive, not aggressive. These creatures will only sting if they feel threatened or are accidentally crushed.
How to recognize one
The striped bark scorpion is relatively easy to identify. Adults typically measure 2.5 to 3 inches long, making them small compared to scorpions in other regions. They are light brown or tan with darker stripes or bands running the length of their body, particularly visible on the tail. The yellow scorpion is similar in size but yellowish or golden in color with a more uniform appearance. Both species have eight legs, two pincers at the front, and a curved tail with a stinger at the tip, held over the body. These scorpions are nocturnal and hide during the day in dark places such as tree bark, under rocks, in leaf litter, inside shoes, folded clothing, and under roof eaves or patio furniture. They hunt insects at night and are most active during warm months. When you examinemore on Scorpion in Hawaii, you'll find detailed images and identification features specific to island populations.
What to do if you are stung
If you are stung by a scorpion in Hawaii, remain calm. The majority of stings from Hawaiian scorpion species cause only local pain and require no medical treatment. Wash the area immediately with soap and water. Remove any rings or tight bracelets from the affected area to prevent swelling-related circulation problems. Elevate the sting site and keep it as still as possible. Apply a cool cloth for comfort, though extreme cold is not recommended. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. Monitor the area for the next few hours. If you notice expanding redness, increasing pain, numbness, or tingling that spreads beyond the immediate sting area, seek medical attention. This is general information, not medical advice; if you are stung, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222, or 911 if symptoms are severe. Children and people with health conditions should be evaluated by a doctor more readily.
How to prevent encounters
In Hawaii, practical prevention steps can reduce your chances of accidental contact with a scorpion. Shake out shoes, socks, and clothing before wearing them, as scorpions sometimes hide in dark spaces. Check your bed linens and fold-up areas before climbing in. Wear closed-toe shoes when walking around your yard, particularly in drier areas. Be cautious when moving firewood, rocks, or landscaping materials. Avoid reaching into dark spaces without looking first. Check before picking up folded towels, blankets, or beach towels that have been stored outside. If you work in an area where scorpions are common, wear work gloves. Reduce insect populations in and around your home by removing standing water, sealing garbage containers, and fixing any pest problems, since scorpions are attracted to places with abundant insects. Seal cracks and crevices in your home and use air-tight containers for storage. Ourwildlife guidesprovide information on integrated pest management for Hawaii's unique environment.
Where in Hawaii and when
Scorpions in Hawaii are primarily found on Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island, and possibly other islands, though they are most established on the largest and most developed islands. They occur in a variety of habitats but prefer drier, warmer areas, particularly around human structures such as homes, gardens, warehouses, and outbuildings. Urban and suburban areas are more likely to have scorpions than remote wilderness. They are most active during the warmest months, particularly from May through September, though they can be active year-round given Hawaii's warm climate. During cooler months or in shaded, humid areas, they are less frequently encountered. The islands' trade ports, particularly around Honolulu, are known entry points for invasive species. Because scorpions are attracted to human structures and food sources, your risk is higher if you live or work in urban areas or spend time in buildings that provide shelter for insects. Learn more aboutwildlife in Hawaiito understand both native and invasive species in your area.
Harmless lookalikes
Hawaii does not have true whip scorpions or pseudoscorpions, but several arthropods might be confused with scorpions at first glance. Centipedes, particularly the Hawaiian centipede, have multiple legs and sometimes an aggressive appearance, but they are entirely different creatures with no stinger and less medically significant bites. Large spiders common to Hawaii, such as the wolf spider or cane spider, might trigger scorpion concerns due to size or speed, but they lack the distinctive curved tail and stinger. The hunting spider Phidippus species is fast and bold but harmless. Various ground-dwelling arthropods found under leaf litter or mulch might seem scorpion-like in poor lighting. If you see an arthropod in Hawaii that causes concern, photographing it and comparing it to known scorpion images is a reliable identification method. Local pest control professionals or Hawaiian wildlife experts can help identify any questionable creature. The overwhelming likelihood is that what you found is a harmless arthropod.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are scorpions in Hawaii deadly? No, the scorpions found in Hawaii are not deadly. The striped bark scorpion causes only minor local pain and swelling in nearly all cases. Serious medical complications or death from these species are extremely rare and would almost never occur in a person with access to medical care. How common are scorpion stings in Hawaii? Stings are uncommon. Most residents and visitors spend years without encountering a scorpion, and stings from these creatures are far rarer than stings from wasps, bees, or jellyfish. What attracts scorpions to a house in Hawaii? Scorpions are drawn to insects, which they hunt for food. Fixing pest problems, sealing cracks, and reducing moisture can help reduce scorpion encounters in your home. What should I do if I see one in Hawaii? Leave it alone and maintain distance. Simply allow it to move away. If it is in your living space, use a broom to sweep it outside or contact a local pest control service. For more information aboutHawaii wildlife, consult local resources and wildlife guides.
Plan your scorpion sighting in Hawaii
136 verified scorpion records have been logged in Hawaii, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Hawaii
- Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site · Wildlife Watching · Find hotels
- Haleakalā National Park · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
Are they in Hawaii?+
Yes, scorpions are established in Hawaii. The primary species is the striped bark scorpion, which arrived via human commerce and now lives on multiple islands including Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii Island. The yellow scorpion also occurs in the state. These are non-native species that have adapted to Hawaii's warm, tropical environment. Unlike their southwestern cousins, Hawaiian scorpions are relatively small and their stings are typically minor. The striped bark scorpion measures about 3 inches long and prefers warm, dry areas. Hawaii's humid climate means scorpions are found mainly in drier regions, particularly around human structures where they hunt for insects. Because these are invasive species, their numbers remain relatively low in most areas. Learn more aboutScorpion in Hawaiito understand how to identify and avoid this introduced species. Information aboutHawaii wildlifeincludes details on both native and invasive species.
How dangerous is it?+
The striped bark scorpion found in Hawaii is one of North America's most medically significant scorpions, but even this species rarely causes serious harm. A sting causes immediate pain followed by local redness and swelling that typically resolves within 24 hours. Some people experience mild numbness or tingling around the sting site, but these symptoms are usually minor. Severe reactions are extremely rare and would be most likely in very young children or people with compromised immune systems. Death from a striped bark scorpion sting in Hawaii has not been documented in recent medical records. The yellow scorpion found in Hawaii causes similar minor local reactions. Compared to other stinging arthropods common in Hawaii, such as jellyfish or wasps, scorpion stings represent a minimal health risk. The key point is that scorpion stings are defensive, not aggressive. These creatures will only sting if they feel threatened or are accidentally crushed.