| Scientific name | Centruroides sculpturatus |
|---|---|
| Group | Ticks, Mites & Other Arachnids |
| Size | 50–80 mm (up to about 3.1 in) |
| Colors | Tan and Yellow |
| Legs | 8 legs |
| Wings | No (as usually seen) |
| Where found | Indoors, anywhere, Yard or patio and Bedroom or bed |
| Most active | Spring, Summer and Fall |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | Yes |
| Risk level | Health risk |
How to identify it
The Arizona bark scorpion is a large member of the ticks, mites & other arachnids group. Eight legs as adults, no antennae and no wings. Check for these three features:
- Thin, light yellowish-tan body and slender pincers
- Tail often curled to the side at rest
- Glows under ultraviolet black light
About this bug
A slender, light tan scorpion of the desert Southwest and the most venomous scorpion in North America. It climbs walls and ceilings and often hides in shoes, bedding and clothing.
You'll usually find Arizona bark scorpions indoors, in yards and on patios and in bedrooms and beds. They are most active in spring, summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
Bark scorpion stings cause severe pain and numbness and can be dangerous for young children and older adults; call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 after a sting.
Our rating: Health risk, meaning it can cause medically significant bites, stings or disease.
Call 911 right away if someone has trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness or a racing heartbeat after a bite or sting.
When you'll see Arizona bark scorpions
Arizona Bark Scorpions are most active in spring, summer and fall. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.
Typical places to check: indoors, anywhere, yard or patio and bedroom or bed.
About ticks, mites & other arachnids
The Arizona bark scorpion is one of the ticks, mites & other arachnids. This group includes ticks, mites, scorpions and harvestmen. Like spiders, adults have eight legs and no antennae, though larval ticks and chiggers have only six. Ticks and some mites feed on blood or skin, while scorpions hunt insects and harvestmen scavenge.
Ticks move through larva, nymph and adult stages, and each stage needs a blood meal. Nymphs are tiny and active in late spring and summer, which is when many tick-borne infections happen.
What to do about it
- Seal gaps around doors, windows and plumbing
- Use a black light at night to find and remove scorpions
- Move beds away from walls and shake out shoes and clothing
Frequently asked questions
What does an Arizona bark scorpion look like?
Thin, light yellowish-tan body and slender pincers. Adults measure 50–80 mm (up to about 3.1 in).
Does the Arizona bark scorpion bite or sting?
It does not bite. It can sting. Bark scorpion stings cause severe pain and numbness and can be dangerous for young children and older adults; call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 after a sting.
Where do Arizona bark scorpions live?
Arizona Bark Scorpions live indoors, in yards and on patios and in bedrooms and beds.
When are Arizona bark scorpions most active?
Mostly in spring, summer and fall.