Are There Scorpions in Missouri? Yes & Their Sting is Like Fire

It's been said many times that what you don't know can't hurt you. That might be true in some instances, but not this one. If you're like me and don't want to know that there really are scorpions in Missouri, you do need to know that they can hurt you.

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This subject came up because my wife is not a fan of insects or anything that can bite or sting. Out of curiosity I did some research and I completely regret it now. I have learned there really are scorpions in Missouri and those that have felt their sting say it feels like you're on fire.

This cute little guy was found under a rock in southern Missouri and he/she/it does not look pleased.

If you come across one and are lucky, they'll be kind of curled up and dormant.

The Missouri Department of Conservation has more than you'll ever want to know about the Striped Bark Scorpion including where in the state you'll find these critters on a helpful map.

Don't know about you, but that is much further north than I would prefer to see scorpions in Missouri. Please, Missouri River, do not ever dry up. Thanks.

What happens if you get bitten by a Striped Bark Scorpion in Missouri?

Mayo Clinic says that you can expect to feel acute pain for anywhere from 1 to 3 days. They also say that you feel "Pain, which can be intense". It's been described as feeling like the bite area is on fire. The good news (if there is any) is that scorpions will only sting if threatened and are allegedly not aggressive unless provoked.

I've only encountered one scorpion in my life almost 30 years ago when I lived in New Mexico. This little guy came out from under a door and sprinted directly across the room toward me. Sorry, PETA, but it was either me or him.

Trust me that you won't want to go to the Missouri Department of Conservation page to find out more about Striped Bark Scorpions, but there is info there if you do.