Dune scorpion


Smeringurus mesaensis, also known as the dune scorpion or giant sand scorpion, is a species of scorpion in the family Vaejovidae. It is common in the deserts of the southwestern United States.

Description

The dune scorpion is approximately 72 mm in length and 2.0 g in mass.

Behaviour and ecology

Smeringurus mesaensis is fossorial and solitary, though young will aggregate shortly after dispersing from their mother. Females of this species are typically larger than males, with males traveling to find females during mating season. They are nocturnal creatures, active between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m., accounting for their daytime invisibility.