The Homeowner’s Guide to
Scorpions in Arizona

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Arizona’s desert landscapes are home to a diverse range of scorpion species that thrive in the arid climate and rugged terrain—but they do find their way into urban areas as well. 

Encountering a scorpion in or around your home can be both alarming and risky. Some Arizona scorpions are harmless, but others, like the notorious Arizona bark scorpion, can pose serious health threats with their venomous stings. Understanding the types of scorpions you might encounter and how to identify them is essential for your safety and peace of mind. 

Here’s a guide to common scorpions in Arizona, how to identify them, and tips on how to get rid of them from your property

Get help with your scorpion problems by calling the spider control pros at Hawx Pest Control! Call (888) 372-9514 today.

1. Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus)

The Arizona bark scorpion is the most notorious scorpion in the state. Known for its highly venomous sting, it has a slender body, pale yellow color, and the ability to climb walls and trees. Arizona bark scorpions typically measure about 2.5 to 3 inches in length.

You’ll often find them in cool, damp areas like under rocks, tree bark, or even inside homes. Their venom can cause intense pain, numbness, and, in rare cases, more severe symptoms. Proper Arizona bark scorpion identification is critical, as they are the most dangerous scorpion species in the state.

2. Giant Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis)

The Giant Hairy Scorpion is the largest scorpion species in North America, growing up to 6 inches long. These scorpions are yellowish-tan with dark backs and fine hairs on their bodies, which help them sense vibrations in the soil.

Unlike the Arizona bark scorpion, this species is not highly venomous—its sting is comparable to a bee sting and causes only mild discomfort. Giant Hairy Scorpions prefer desert areas and burrow in sandy soil, where they hunt for insects and even small animals.

3. Stripetail Scorpion (Paravaejovis spinigerus)

The Arizona stripetail scorpion, also called the striped-tail scorpion, is a medium-sized species usually found in desert environments. It’s light tan or yellowish-brown with darker stripes on its tail.

Stripetail scorpions are non-aggressive and rarely sting unless provoked. Their venom causes only minor pain or irritation. Because they are nocturnal, they typically hide under rocks or in crevices during the day.

4. Yellow Ground Scorpion (Vaejovis confusus)

Another common scorpion in Arizona, the yellow ground scorpion is smaller, typically 1 to 2 inches long, and has a pale yellowish-brown body. It prefers arid environments and is often found in sandy or rocky areas.

While its sting is not dangerous to humans, it can be painful. These scorpions are shy and avoid human interaction, but they may wander into homes in search of food or shelter.

5. Arizona Black Scorpion (Hadrurus spadix)

The Arizona black scorpion is a close relative of the Giant Hairy Scorpion but has a darker, nearly black coloration. It’s slightly smaller, averaging 4 to 5 inches in length and prefers rocky desert areas and dry riverbeds.

This species is not highly venomous; its sting is similar to one from the Giant Hairy Scorpion. Like other scorpions, it feeds on insects and other arthropods.

How to Get Rid of Scorpions in Arizona

If you have scorpions in your home or yard, it’s best to get help from qualified professionals who know what it takes to address the issue. At Hawx Pest Control, our technicians are trained to identify and treat scorpion infestations and are equipped with the latest tools and tech. 

We offer comprehensive Scorpion Control Services that include the safe removal of scorpions from your property, expert advice, and preventative treatments to help keep them from coming back.

Don’t let Arizona scorpions threaten property and disrupt your peace of mind. Contact Hawx Pest Control today to schedule a consultation and protect your home. With multiple Hawx branches throughout Arizona, our experts can be sent to your property to help address your scorpion problem and any other pest issues you may have.

Find the Arizona branch location nearest you or contact Hawx immediately.

FAQs:

Are scorpions in Arizona poisonous?

Yes, scorpions in Arizona are venomous. The most dangerous is the Arizona bark scorpion, whose sting can cause severe symptoms. While most Arizona scorpion species have stings similar to a bee’s, caution is always advised around any scorpion you encounter.

How likely are you to see a scorpion in Arizona?

Due to the desert climate, it’s fairly common to see scorpions in Arizona. The state has about 40 to 60 species of scorpions, and Arizona’s Poison Control Centers receive around 20,000 calls each year about scorpion stings. However, this is likely only a fraction of the total number of stings, as most go unreported.

What months are scorpions most active in Arizona?

Scorpions are most active from March through October, with peak activity during the hot summer months of June to August. This period marks the height of scorpion season in Arizona, when hot temperatures mean higher scorpion activity.

What part of Arizona has the most scorpions?

Scorpions are widespread, but they’re most prevalent in desert regions like Phoenix and Tucson. Areas with natural desert terrain tend to have higher populations of scorpions.

What is the most venomous scorpion in Arizona?

The Arizona bark scorpion is the most venomous scorpion in Arizona. Its sting can cause severe symptoms, including intense pain, numbness, and difficulty breathing, especially in children or the elderly.

How painful is an Arizona bark scorpion sting?

An Arizona bark scorpion sting is extremely painful and can cause serious symptoms. Arizona bark scorpion sting symptoms include intense pain, numbness, tingling, muscle twitching, and even difficulty breathing. Immediate medical attention is recommended, especially for children and the elderly.

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