Arizona’s desert landscape is home to various scorpion species, a natural component of its ecosystem. Over 40 species inhabit the state, thriving in its arid conditions. Understanding their presence and behaviors can help residents and visitors coexist safely. These arachnids are primarily nocturnal, seeking shelter during the day and emerging at night to hunt.
Common Arizona Scorpions and Their Characteristics
Among the many scorpion species in Arizona, a few are frequently encountered, each with distinct characteristics. The Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus) is the most medically significant species in the United States due to its potent venom. This small, slender scorpion typically measures 2 to 3 inches and has a yellowish-tan color. It has unusually slender pedipalps (pincers) and a tail that is thicker than its pincers. Unlike many other scorpions, the Arizona Bark Scorpion is an adept climber, frequently found on walls, trees, and inside homes, seeking cool, moist environments. It can enter structures through openings as narrow as 1/16 of an inch.
The Desert Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis) is the largest scorpion in North America, reaching 4 to 7 inches. Its name derives from the brown hairs covering its body, which help it detect vibrations. This species has a dark body with yellowish legs, pedipalps, and tail, and large, robust pincers. While imposing, its venom is generally comparable to a bee sting and is not considered dangerous to humans. These scorpions prefer sandy soils and often create burrows, though they can also be found under rocks and debris.
The Stripe-tailed Scorpion (Paravaejovis spinigerus), also known as the Arizona Devil Scorpion, is another common species. It measures 2 to 3 inches and has a light tan to brownish coloration. It features a robust tail and bulkier pedipalps compared to the slender Bark Scorpion. Its sting is painful but usually not medically dangerous to humans. These scorpions are often found under rocks and other surface objects.
Coexisting with Scorpions Safely
Minimizing encounters with scorpions around homes involves several preventative measures. Sealing entry points is a primary defense, as scorpions can squeeze through tiny cracks and gaps around windows, doors, foundations. Using caulk or weather-stripping can block these openings, and mesh screens should be installed on vents and pipes. Reducing outdoor harborage also discourages scorpions; this includes clearing debris like woodpiles, rock piles, and leaf litter. Trimming vegetation and tree branches away from the house can prevent scorpions from accessing structures from above.
Inside the home, keeping living spaces clean and clutter-free reduces potential hiding spots. Scorpions are attracted to moisture, so addressing leaky faucets and eliminating standing water makes an environment less appealing. Shaking out shoes, clothing, and towels before use is a practical habit, as scorpions might seek refuge in these items. Using a blacklight flashlight at night can help locate scorpions, as their exoskeletons fluoresce a bright bluish-green under ultraviolet light, making them easier to spot and remove.
If a scorpion sting occurs, immediate action can help manage symptoms. Clean the sting site with soap and water, then apply a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can alleviate discomfort. While most scorpion stings in Arizona are not life-threatening, monitor for severe symptoms, especially after a sting from an Arizona Bark Scorpion. Symptoms such as difficulty breathing, muscle twitching, unusual eye movements, excessive drooling, or widespread numbness and tingling indicate a more serious reaction and require immediate medical attention. Contacting the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 is advisable for guidance, particularly for children, the elderly, or individuals with pre-existing health conditions.