The Pseudoscorpion (Chelifer cancroides) is a tiny, scorpion-like arachnid with large chelate pedipalps but no tail or stinger. Despite its fearsome appearance at magnification, it is harmless to humans and is actually a beneficial predator of mites, booklice, and other tiny pests in homes and libraries. It practices phoresy — hitchhiking on larger insects to travel between habitats.
Best time to see a Pseudoscorpion
The best time to see a Pseudoscorpion is March–July, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 518 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Pseudoscorpion sightings near you
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