Bug Identifier
Arizona Bark Scorpion
Community identification

Arizona Bark Scorpion

Centruroides sculpturatus

Order & Family
Order Scorpiones, Family Buthidae
Size
2.5 to 3 inches (7 to 8 cm) in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in the Sonoran Desert, specifically under rocks, in crevices, and often inside homes or climbing vertical surfaces like trees and walls.

Diet & Feeding

Nocturnal carnivore that feeds on insects and other invertebrates including crickets, cockroaches, and beetles.

Behavior Patterns

Unlike most scorpions, this species is highly social and can hibernate in groups. They are expert climbers and can be found upside down on walls or ceilings. They are most active at night.

Risks & Benefits

It is the most venomous scorpion in North America; its sting causes severe pain, numbness, and potential respiratory distress in humans, particularly children and the elderly. Beneficially, they help control pest insect populations.