Some common misconceptions about scorpions is their venom. While their venom is poisonous, it’s meant for their prey, not for humans. Deaths from scorpion stings are rare. Let’s talk about the four most common scorpions found in Arizona and how to prevent them from becoming your roommate.
1. Arizona Bark Scorpion
This small light brown scorpion is often found in Arizona and is the only scorpion that can fatally injure a human. The males are slightly bigger than their female counterparts and they can live up to 7 years. You can usually identify them by their color and they are extremely good climbers. They can be found in sinks, bathtubs, walls, trees, etc., but can also be found hiding under rocks. Their favorite habitat is cool, damp areas, which is why without proper pest control you can find them inside your house. This is the only species of scorpion that is considered life threatening in Arizona.
2. Arizona Stripetail Scorpion
This scorpion is yellowish in color and has dark stripes on its dorsal area. Reaching up to 3 inches long, the female scorpion is often larger than the male. This is the most common scorpion in Arizona. Seeking shelter during the day and hunting for prey at night, these nocturnal predators can typically be found under rocks. While the most common in Arizona, its venom does not pack enough punch to fatally injure a human. You will want to have regular pest control and be sure to not leave potential shelters around for them (ex: cardboard boxes, towels, etc.) to prevent these pests from “moving in.”
Fun Fact:
Scorpions glow under a UV black light at night.
3. Arizona Giant Hairy Scorpion
This scorpion is the largest scorpion in the United States, but it is also the least common in Arizona. The Arizona Giant Hairy Scorpion can reach up to 6 inches in length and because of its size, it regularly feeds on other scorpions and larger prey like lizards. This species of scorpion burrows deep into the soil and follows the moisture. As summer progresses, the moisture level in the soil recedes and so does the scorpion, burrowing as deep as 8 feet below the surface. The sting is mild, and only causes local pain and swelling. Still, you don’t want to come across one of these pests.
4. Yellow Ground Scorpion
This scorpion is very similar in size and appearance to the Arizona Bark Scorpion and is often misidentified. The main difference is that the Yellow Ground Scorpion is often as long as it is wide or sometimes wider. Reaching a length of 3 inches, these pests have a sting that can be painful, but their sting is not considered harmful or deadly.
Pest Control for Scorpions in Arizona
Scorpions are more “scary” than they are dangerous. With regular pest control service in Arizona, you can control whether or not scorpions decide to make your house their home. There are some DIY things you can do as well such as making sure you aren’t leaving cardboard around, never leaving towels (especially damp ones) around your home or yard, and always checking before touching things like hose reels, or garbage cans, etc.
You may also wonder, “why do I see more scorpions in the summer?” Well, these pesky critters are seeking out cooler temperatures, which can be found inside your home. Despite them being more prevalent in the summertime, scorpions mate during the spring and summer months, giving birth several months later. This means you can see scorpions around your home and property year round. Staying up on your regular pest control service is important and can prevent unwanted roommates.
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