Scorpions In Tucson: What Homeowners Should Know

Scorpions are a common concern for homeowners in Tucson and throughout Southern Arizona. In this blog post, we will discuss the various types of scorpions found in our region, including the Arizona bark scorpion, striped tail scorpion, and desert hairy scorpion. We'll also delve into whether these creatures pose a significant threat to people or pets and if they can cause damage to your property.

Types of scorpions in Tucson

The Tucson area is home to three of the most common scorpion species in Arizona: the Arizona bark scorpion, striped tail scorpion, and desert hairy scorpion. Each species has its own distinct physical traits, environment choices, and behavior.

Arizona bark scorpions
Small light-brown scorpions with slightly darker backs, these small arachnids grow to a maximum length of about 2.5 inches. These scorpions prefer dry areas like desert scrubland and yards and will hide out under rocks or logs during the day before coming out at night in order to hunt for insects.  

Striped tail scorpions
Striped tail scorpions typically reach just over two-inches in length when fully grown. They have yellow to tan bodies and a notable dark triangle mark between their eyes. Striped tail scorpions are likely to be found close to water sources and pockets of humidity; common hiding places include under rocks, in woodpiles, and other places that provide shade and a degree of anonymity. Like bark scorpions, they are nocturnal and will emerge at night in order to prey on insects, worms, and even baby lizards.  

Desert hairy scorpions
This scorpion grows up to six inches in length, making it larger (by several inches) than the other two scorpions highlighted in this post. They are pale yellow to brown in color.  As is the case with the previous two, desert hairy scorpions are active at night hunting for any invertebrates.

Recap: Tucson is home to three common scorpion species: the Arizona bark scorpion, striped tail scorpion and desert hairy scorpion. These arachnids vary in size, habitat preference and behavior but are generally harmless unless provoked. They can be found hiding under rocks or logs during the day before coming out at night to hunt for prey items like insects and lizards.

Are scorpions dangerous?

While all three scorpions are venomous, the smaller Arizona bark scorpion is the most venomous in the region. Although not typically aggressive towards humans, scorpions in Tucson will sting when touched or if they become trapped against skin (usually after crawling into shoes, clothes, or bedding).  Although most stings are accompanied by uncomfortable pain, they are not usually life threatening. Of course, there are always exceptions in babies, the elderly, or those with known sensitivity should be watched carefully and given professional medical care, if necessary.

As for the threat to pets, dogs typically come through without serious repercussions. They might yelp, limp, or lick the sting site and smaller dogs may take longer to recover. Cats are not immune to scorpion stings either and may exhibit similar symptoms. Due to their smaller size, they may experience a more severe reaction and take longer to feel better as well. If your pet is stung by a scorpion and is acting different than usual, contact your vet right away to run the symptoms by them.

Recap: Scorpions are a nuisance problem that can become dangerous for some people and pets. Although they are not aggressive, scorpions may sting if threatened.

How scorpions get inside Tucson homes

Scorpions, like their arachnid relatives, are good climbers and will fit through some small spaces including, but not limited to:

• Weep holes
• Vents
• Under doors
• Cracks, gaps, and openings on the exterior

To be safe, any opening, not matter if it’s quite tiny, should be considered a potential entry point for scorpions and other insects.

Recap: Scorpions can squeeze through very small openings. They are also adept at climbing and will access entry points from the ground to the roofline.

Scorpion prevention tips for homeowners in Tucson & Southern AZ Tucson

In order to keep scorpions and other pests out of your Tucson or Southern Arizona home, our pest control specialists recommend the following scorpion prevention tips:

• Seal cracks and gaps around the home
• Caulk any cracks or crevices around windows, doors, pipes, and other points of entry
• Make sure all-weather stripping is secure and replace if necessary
• Check screens for tears or holes that may need repair
• Keep garage doors closed when not in use
• Clear away brush and other yard debris that scorpions might use as hiding spots during the day
• Discard old tires and other items that might attract the insects they feed on
• Keep woodpiles away from your home

Recap: Sealing your home, repairing screens, and weather stripping as well as cleaning up your yard will help make your property less appealing to scorpions and the insects they eat.

Sign up for Northwest Exterminating’s Desert Guard

Living in Tucson, Saddlebrooke, or elsewhere in Southern Arizona has plenty of benefits although dealing with scorpions is not one of them. If you’ve noticed these arachnids have a tendency to infest your home or lurk about on your property, consider signing up for Northwest Exterminating’s Desert Guard. A rodent and pest exclusion plan designed specifically for Arizona’s unique desert environment, is an integrated pest management solution that keeps scorpions and other desert-loving pests out. By sealing entry points and installing physical barriers, our team can limit scorpion and other pest activity as well as remove potential harborages, and deny them entry into homes!

Don't let scorpions keep you from enjoying your Tucson home, contact Northwest Exterminating to sign up for Desert Guard or for answers to any questions you may have!