Scorpions

There are more than 35 different species of scorpion in Arizona. The most common scorpion in the Tucson area is the Arizona bark scorpion. The bark scorpion (Centruroides exilicauda), is a small light brown scorpion common to the southwest United States. The bark scorpion occurs from southern California through southern Arizona into western New Mexico; and in adjacent Mexico (Baja California, Sonora, and Chihuahua).

To avoid the extreme heat of the daytime, these scorpions will shelter in the shade and come out at night to hunt for food. The bark scorpion is nocturnal, prefers to ambush its prey, and usually feeds on crickets or roaches but will consume all types of insects including other scorpions. In the winter months, they will hibernate, often congregating in large groups. The bark scorpion is also one of the few species that are good climbers. This means it can be found not only under rocks or in rock crevices, but also in trees or high on rock walls. They also can be found inside homes, trapped in sinks or bathtubs, climbing walls, or in a dark closet.

The bark scorpion is the most venomous scorpion in North America, and its venom can cause severe pain (coupled with numbness and tingling) in adult humans, typically lasting between 24 to 72 hours. Temporary dysfunction in the area stung is common; e.g. a hand or possibly arm can be immobilized or experience convulsions. It also may cause the loss of breath for a short period of time. Due to the extreme pain induced, many victims describe sensations of electrical jolts after envenomation.