Are There Scorpions in New Mexico?
Yes, scorpions live in New Mexico, including the bark scorpion and striped bark scorpion across much of the state. They are common in southern and central regions, particularly around Albuquerque and Las Cruces. Most stings are mild, but you should know how to stay safe and what to do if stung by one.
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
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- GBIF records
Yes, scorpions are in New Mexico. Next you'll want:
Verified species, source iNaturalist
10 types of scorpions recorded in New Mexico
10 scorpion species have a verified observation record in New Mexico, each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
- No openly licensed photo yet1
- No openly licensed photo yet2
- No openly licensed photo yet3
Russell's Scorpion
Chihuahuanus russelli
124 records - No openly licensed photo yet4
- No openly licensed photo yet5
- No openly licensed photo yet6
- No openly licensed photo yet7
Diplocentrus peloncillensis
Diplocentrus peloncillensis
38 records - No openly licensed photo yet8
Thick-handed Scorpion
Chihuahuanus crassimanus
29 records - No openly licensed photo yet9
Vaejovis feti
Vaejovis feti
20 records - No openly licensed photo yet10
Paruroctonus gracilior
Paruroctonus gracilior
16 records
Plus 6 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations.
Yes, scorpions live in New Mexico, including the bark scorpion and striped bark scorpion across much of the state. They are common in southern and central regions, particularly around Albuquerque and Las Cruces. Most stings are mild, but you should know how to stay safe and what to do if stung by one.
Are Scorpions in New Mexico?
Yes, scorpions are well established throughout much of New Mexico. The bark scorpion is found in southern and central parts of the state, and the striped bark scorpion inhabits many regions. These desert-adapted scorpions thrive in New Mexico's warm, dry climate. They are common around Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Roswell, and other areas across the state. Scorpions are found in both rural and urban areas, adapting well to homes and outbuildings. They hide during the day in protected spots and become active at night. While scorpions are present in New Mexico, they are not aggressive and do not seek confrontation with people. Encounters are preventable with basic awareness. Ourscorpion in New Mexico guideprovides detailed information about their habitat and behavior throughout the state.
How Dangerous Are Scorpion Stings?
Scorpion stings in New Mexico are usually not medically serious. The bark scorpion and striped bark scorpion present in New Mexico cause mild to moderate pain at the sting site, similar to a wasp or bee sting. Swelling and soreness may last several hours to a day. Severe reactions are uncommon in healthy people. Children and older adults may experience stronger effects and should seek medical evaluation. The sting area may feel numb or tingly for a short period. Deaths from scorpion stings are exceptionally rare in the United States and New Mexico specifically. Most people recover completely with basic first aid. The main discomfort is pain and mild swelling rather than any serious medical emergency. Knowing you are unlikely to face severe consequences can help you stay calm if stung. For more on scorpion in New Mexico, see ourNew Mexico scorpion guide.
How to Recognize a Scorpion
Scorpions are distinctive arachnids with eight legs, two pincers at the front, and a curved tail with a stinger at the tip. New Mexico scorpions are typically small, usually two to three inches long. The bark scorpion is yellowish to tan with darker bands on its legs and tail. The striped bark scorpion is lighter colored with brown or dark stripes along its back. Both species have flat bodies that allow them to squeeze into narrow spaces and cracks. You will find scorpions hiding in dark, sheltered locations during the day. They shelter under logs and bark, in woodpiles, in shoes and clothing, behind baseboards and molding, under rocks, and in garage corners. Scorpions are nocturnal and hunt at night for insects. If you spot one during the day, it is probably trying to escape heat or light. You can also browseNew Mexico wildlife.
What to Do If Stung
If stung by a scorpion, stay calm and keep the area as still as possible. Remove any rings or tight bracelets from the affected hand or arm in case swelling develops. Rinse the area with soap and water. Pain medication available at any drugstore can help if needed. A cold pack or ice wrapped in cloth can reduce pain and swelling, but do not apply ice directly to your skin. Elevate the stung limb if you can. Most stings stop hurting within a few hours. This is general information, not medical advice; if you are bitten, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222, or 911 if symptoms are severe. Never cut the wound, apply a tourniquet, or attempt to catch the scorpion. Seek medical attention if you develop severe pain, numbness that spreads, difficulty breathing, muscle spasms, or any worrying symptoms. See all of ourwildlife guides.
How to Prevent Scorpion Encounters
Practical steps significantly reduce your chances of encountering a scorpion in New Mexico. Remove piles of wood, leaves, and debris from around your home's foundation and doorways. Keep firewood stacked at least 10 feet away from your house. Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home using caulk or weatherstripping. Install door sweeps on all exterior doors to eliminate gaps at ground level. Before wearing shoes, especially those stored in garages or closets, shake them out thoroughly. Wear closed toe shoes when walking outside, particularly at night. Remove insects from your home, since scorpions hunt them for food. Reduce outdoor lighting near doors and windows, as it attracts insects. Keep your yard clear of clutter. Indoors, maintain good housekeeping to eliminate hiding spots.
Where in New Mexico and When
Scorpions in New Mexico are found throughout the southern portion of the state and in parts of the central region. They are common around Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Roswell, Carlsbad, and surrounding areas. They are present in desert and semi-desert environments. Scorpions become active in spring when temperatures warm and remain active through fall. They are most frequently seen from May through September. Activity peaks in summer months when temperatures are hottest. Nighttime is when scorpions hunt and are most active, so evening and night are when encounters are most likely. During very hot summer days, they may retreat underground to cooler spots. Winter activity is minimal in outdoor areas, though indoor scorpions in heated homes remain active year-round. Learn more aboutwildlife in New Mexicoand their seasonal patterns to better understand when and where you might encounter them.
Harmless Lookalikes
The reassuring fact is that many creatures people mistake for scorpions in New Mexico are completely harmless. Pseudoscorpions are tiny relatives of true scorpions that lack stingers and venom. They look scorpion-like but are harmless. Many New Mexico spiders appear threatening but pose no danger. Wolf spiders are large and fast-moving but completely harmless to people. Jumping spiders are small and curious but not dangerous. Cellar spiders and other common house spiders are not scorpions and cannot hurt you. Vinegaroons and whip scorpions are unusual arachnids found in New Mexico that look strange but have no stinger and are not venomous. They may emit a vinegar-like smell when threatened, but they are harmless. If you find a creature without the distinctive curved, segmented tail ending in a sharp stinger, it is definitely not a scorpion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What attracts scorpions to houses? Scorpions enter homes seeking shelter from extreme heat or cold, looking for water, and hunting for insects to eat. If you have cockroaches, crickets, or other insects inside, scorpions may follow them indoors. Reducing pest populations and sealing entry points helps prevent scorpions. Are scorpion stings deadly? Scorpion stings in New Mexico are almost never fatal. Serious medical problems are rare, and deaths in the United States from scorpion stings are exceptionally uncommon. Prompt medical care if needed ensures good outcomes. How common are scorpion stings in New Mexico? Stings are uncommon despite scorpions being present in many areas. Most people in New Mexico never get stung. Basic precautions make encounters even less likely. What should I do if I see one? Stay calm, back away slowly, and leave it alone. The scorpion will not chase you or attack. For more safety information, visit ourNew Mexico wildlife guide.
Plan your scorpion sighting in New Mexico
960 verified scorpion records have been logged in New Mexico. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in New Mexico
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Frequently asked questions
Are Scorpions in New Mexico?+
Yes, scorpions are well established throughout much of New Mexico. The bark scorpion is found in southern and central parts of the state, and the striped bark scorpion inhabits many regions. These desert-adapted scorpions thrive in New Mexico's warm, dry climate. They are common around Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Roswell, and other areas across the state. Scorpions are found in both rural and urban areas, adapting well to homes and outbuildings. They hide during the day in protected spots and become active at night. While scorpions are present in New Mexico, they are not aggressive and do not seek confrontation with people. Encounters are preventable with basic awareness. Ourscorpion in New Mexico guideprovides detailed information about their habitat and behavior throughout the state.
How Dangerous Are Scorpion Stings?+
Scorpion stings in New Mexico are usually not medically serious. The bark scorpion and striped bark scorpion present in New Mexico cause mild to moderate pain at the sting site, similar to a wasp or bee sting. Swelling and soreness may last several hours to a day. Severe reactions are uncommon in healthy people. Children and older adults may experience stronger effects and should seek medical evaluation. The sting area may feel numb or tingly for a short period. Deaths from scorpion stings are exceptionally rare in the United States and New Mexico specifically. Most people recover completely with basic first aid. The main discomfort is pain and mild swelling rather than any serious medical emergency. Knowing you are unlikely to face severe consequences can help you stay calm if stung. For more on scorpion in New Mexico, see ourNew Mexico scorpion guide.
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