Arizona wildlife in desert and mountain habitats

Arizona Bark Scorpion

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on August 2, 2026.

Arizona bark scorpion on a rough desert surface

Arizona Bark Scorpion. Creative Commons Wikipedia

The Arizona bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus) is a small, tan scorpion found in desert, residential and riparian environments across much of Arizona. It is nocturnal, an excellent climber and the Arizona scorpion of greatest medical concern. Although most stings cause intense localized pain, numbness or tingling, young children and people who develop body-wide symptoms may require urgent medical care. Arizona bark scorpions also serve an important ecological role by preying on crickets, cockroaches, beetles, spiders and other small animals.

Arizona Bark Scorpion Quick Facts

Scientific name: Centruroides sculpturatus
Animal group: Arachnid
Typical adult size: About 1½ inches long, although size varies
Color: Pale tan, yellowish tan or light brown
Activity: Primarily nocturnal
Diet: Crickets, cockroaches, beetles, spiders and other small prey
Habitat: Desert terrain, rocky areas, trees, block walls and buildings
Range: Primarily Arizona, with populations in neighboring parts of the Southwest and Mexico
Defense: Venomous sting delivered from the tip of the tail
Medical concern: Arizona’s most medically significant scorpion
Season: Most active during warm weather, particularly at night
Visibility under UV light: Scorpions fluoresce when illuminated with ultraviolet light

Let's talk about Scorpions in general. Scorpions have existed for at least 430 million years. Although tiny, they do look prehistoric. They are very frightening looking creatures and the mere sight can send some people into a serious state of anxiety.

Where to Find Arizona Bark Scorpions

Arizona bark scorpions occur primarily in low-elevation desert and foothill areas, including communities throughout central and southern Arizona. They are frequently encountered around Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, Tucson and other Sonoran Desert communities.

During daylight hours, bark scorpions shelter in narrow, protected spaces that reduce exposure to heat and dryness. Common hiding places include loose tree bark, rock crevices, stacked lumber, firewood, block walls, palm debris, landscaping materials, garages and gaps around buildings. At night, they emerge to hunt insects and other small prey.

Warm evenings from spring through fall generally provide the best opportunity to observe scorpions. A UV flashlight causes their exoskeletons to fluoresce, making them easier to see after dark. Wear closed shoes, avoid placing hands beneath rocks or debris and observe scorpions without touching or disturbing them.

All scorpions are venomous, but very few species are considered dangerous. By varying accounts, there are over 1400 species worldwide of which only 90 exist is the United States. About 40 are unique to Arizona and the Southwest as well as northern Mexico. One of those is the feared "Bark Scorpion", the only one in the US considered dangerous.

How to Identify an Arizona Bark Scorpion

Arizona bark scorpions are relatively small and slender compared with many other desert scorpions. Their bodies are usually pale tan or yellowish brown, helping them blend into desert soil, tree bark and block walls. Identification based only on color can be difficult because several Arizona scorpions have similar coloration.

Small, slender body
Thin pincers compared with heavier-bodied scorpions
Long, narrow tail segments
Pale tan or yellow-brown coloration
Strong climbing ability
Frequently found on walls, trees and other vertical surfaces

Do not handle a scorpion to identify it. A clear photograph taken from a safe distance may be useful when consulting a pest-management professional or poison specialist.

Arizona Bark Scorpion Facts

It is the most venomous scorpion in America. But let's put your mind at ease. Deaths from the sting of the bark scorpion are extremely rare. According to research biologists at Arizona State University, there has not been a recorded death by any scorpion sting in Arizona for over 40 years.

The Bark Scorpion is the smallest scorpion but packs the biggest punch. The adults range from 2 to 3 inches long, including its tail. It is almost of uniform color ranging from tan to tan-yellow. Whereas the Bark Scorpion primarily inhabits arid desert regions, it's cousin, the Striped Bark Scorpion is found at higher elevations and is identified by dark horizontal stripes.

These guys are adept at climbing walls and trees (hence the name "bark"). That's why they are often found inside homes. They climb seeking points of entry. With flat, thin bodies, they can squeeze through the tiniest places as small as 1/16". Particularly during the heat of summer, they are seeking cool, dark places that also harbor their favorite insect menu.

Life Cycle and Reproduction

Arizona bark scorpions give birth to live young rather than laying eggs outside the body. After birth, the young climb onto their mother’s back, where they remain protected until completing their first molt. They then disperse and begin living independently.

Scorpions must molt repeatedly as they grow because their hard exoskeleton cannot expand. During a molt, the old outer covering splits and the scorpion emerges with a new, soft exoskeleton. It remains vulnerable until the new covering hardens.

Courtship involves a coordinated movement in which the male grasps the female’s pincers and guides her over a sperm packet deposited on the ground. Reproductive timing, development and lifespan vary with temperature, food availability and environmental conditions.

Range, Habitat and Behavior

Geographic Range

The Arizona bark scorpion is most closely associated with Arizona and the Sonoran Desert, although its broader range extends into neighboring areas of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. Within Arizona, it occurs in natural desert habitat as well as established residential neighborhoods.

Preferred Habitat

Bark scorpions seek sheltered locations that offer protection from daytime heat, predators and water loss. They may hide beneath rocks, fallen wood, loose bark, landscaping materials and outdoor equipment. Around homes, they can occupy cracks, block walls, garages, storage areas and other dark spaces.

Nocturnal Behavior

Arizona bark scorpions are primarily active at night. They emerge after dark to hunt and often remain hidden during the hottest part of the day. Encounters are especially common during warm summer evenings, when both scorpions and their insect prey are active.

Climbing Ability

Unlike many heavier-bodied scorpions, bark scorpions are accomplished climbers. They may climb walls, trees, textured masonry and other rough surfaces. This ability contributes to encounters on patios, fences and inside buildings.

Cold-Weather Activity

Scorpion activity generally declines during cold weather. Bark scorpions may remain sheltered in protected spaces and become active again when temperatures rise. They should not be described as undergoing true winter hibernation in every setting.

Arizona Bark Scorpion Venom

Scorpions are venomous rather than poisonous because they inject venom through a stinger. The Arizona bark scorpion’s venom primarily affects the nervous system and can cause intense pain, burning, tingling or numbness near the sting site. The affected area may also become unusually sensitive to touch, pressure, heat or cold.

Some victims develop body-wide neurologic symptoms. These may include muscle twitching, unusual or uncontrolled eye movements, agitation, drooling, difficulty speaking or swallowing, abdominal cramping, vomiting or trouble breathing. Young children face the greatest risk of developing serious symptoms because the amount of venom is greater relative to their body size.

Most healthy adults experience severe localized discomfort without life-threatening complications. However, anyone with significant neurologic symptoms, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing or rapidly worsening illness requires immediate medical attention.

What to Do If Stung by a Scorpion

Move away from the scorpion and remain calm.
Wash the sting site gently with soap and water.
Apply a cool compress to help reduce pain. Do not place ice directly on the skin or immerse the limb in ice water.
Position the affected arm or leg comfortably.
Remove rings, bracelets or other tight items if swelling develops.
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for case-specific guidance.
Watch for muscle twitching, unusual eye movements, drooling, trouble speaking, difficulty swallowing, vomiting or breathing problems.
Seek emergency care immediately for severe or body-wide symptoms.
Closely monitor infants and young children because they have a greater risk of serious effects.
Do not cut the skin, attempt to suck out venom or apply a tourniquet.
Do not take sedatives unless directed by a medical professional.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Care

Call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately if a person develops any of the following after a suspected scorpion sting:

Difficulty breathing
Difficulty swallowing or excessive drooling
Uncontrolled or unusual eye movements
Severe muscle twitching or jerking movements
Slurred speech or a thick-tongue sensation
Seizure-like activity or convulsions
Severe agitation, confusion or loss of coordination
Rapidly worsening symptoms affecting multiple parts of the body
Signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as facial swelling or breathing difficulty

When symptoms are limited to pain, burning, tingling or numbness near the sting, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for instructions and monitoring advice.

How to Reduce Scorpions Around Your Home

No single method guarantees a scorpion-free property. The most effective approach combines exclusion, habitat reduction and control of the insects that scorpions eat.

Seal cracks and gaps around foundations, utility lines, windows and doors.
Install or replace weather stripping beneath exterior doors.
Repair damaged window screens and door screens.
Move firewood, lumber, bricks and stored materials away from exterior walls.
Remove loose debris, leaf litter and unnecessary clutter.
Trim vegetation that touches the house.
Remove loose palm debris and other sheltered hiding places.
Reduce cockroaches, crickets and other insects that provide food for scorpions.
Wear gloves when moving rocks, firewood or outdoor equipment.
Shake out shoes, clothing, towels and bedding before use.
Do not walk barefoot outdoors at night in areas where scorpions are common.
Use a UV flashlight cautiously to inspect patios, walls and landscaped areas after dark.
Consult a licensed pest-management professional when scorpions are repeatedly found indoors.

Scorpion Stings and Pets

Dogs and cats can be stung when they investigate or step on a scorpion. Signs may include sudden pain, pawing at the face, limping, vocalizing, drooling, shaking or unusual behavior. Because symptoms and treatment depend on the animal’s size, health and degree of exposure, contact a veterinarian promptly after a suspected sting. Severe weakness, breathing difficulty, collapse or uncontrolled muscle movement requires emergency veterinary care.

Scorpion Anatomy

Labeled diagram showing the anatomy of a scorpion

Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona Bark Scorpions

Are Arizona bark scorpions dangerous?

The Arizona bark scorpion is the state’s most medically significant scorpion. Most healthy adults experience severe localized pain, burning, tingling or numbness, but young children and people with body-wide neurologic symptoms may require urgent treatment.

Can an Arizona bark scorpion kill a person?

Life-threatening reactions are uncommon in the United States, but severe envenomation can occur. Difficulty breathing, unusual eye movements, drooling, muscle twitching, convulsions or difficulty swallowing requires immediate medical care.

What should I do after a bark scorpion sting?

Wash the area with soap and water, apply a cool compress and call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Seek emergency care for breathing difficulty, trouble swallowing, uncontrolled muscle movement or other severe symptoms.

What does an Arizona bark scorpion look like?

It is a relatively small, slender scorpion that is usually pale tan or yellowish brown. It has narrow pincers, a slender tail and a strong ability to climb rough vertical surfaces.

Where do Arizona bark scorpions live?

They live in desert, foothill, riparian and residential environments. They may shelter beneath rocks, wood, loose tree bark, landscaping materials, block walls and protected areas around buildings.

When are bark scorpions most active?

They are primarily nocturnal and are most often encountered during warm weather. Many reported stings occur at night during the summer months.

Do Arizona bark scorpions glow under blacklight?

Yes. Like other scorpions, their exoskeleton fluoresces under ultraviolet light, making them easier to locate after dark.

Can bark scorpions climb walls?

Yes. Arizona bark scorpions are excellent climbers and may climb trees, block walls, stucco and other textured surfaces.

What do Arizona bark scorpions eat?

They prey on crickets, cockroaches, beetles, spiders and other small animals. Reducing insects around a building can make the area less attractive to scorpions.

Do bark scorpions live inside houses?

They normally live outdoors but can enter buildings through gaps around doors, windows, utility lines and foundations. Indoors, they may hide in dark, protected locations such as garages, closets, stored items and shoes.

Do bark scorpions hibernate?

Their activity generally decreases during colder weather, and they may remain sheltered for extended periods. Activity increases again when temperatures become warmer.

How can I keep scorpions out of my house?

Seal cracks, install door sweeps, repair screens, remove debris and stored wood near the house, reduce insect prey and shake out shoes and clothing before use.