Scorpions tend to spark fear, mostly because of how they look and how they're portrayed in movies and TV shows. Their stingers, in particular, make people nervous. The truth is, most scorpions don’t pose a serious risk to people and only sting when they feel threatened.
That said, Arizona is home to the Arizona bark scorpion, which is considered the most venomous species in North America. While the risk is low for most, it's still important to understand when and why stings happen, what to watch for, and how to respond.
Scorpions sting as a defense mechanism. They only have a limited amount of venom within their system. If their prey is small enough, they can use their claws to grab it and tear it apart to eat it. However, to paralyze larger prey, they will lunge their tail forward and sting their prey to immobilize it and then eat it.
While they may use their venom to subdue prey, they usually only sting humans if they feel threatened or are handled. The pain from scorpion stings can be intense, but in most cases, they’re not life-threatening. If you have been stung by a scorpion and you’re worried about any symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Trying to pick up or disturb a scorpion increases the risk of being stung. If you see one, the safest course of action is to leave it alone and avoid contact.
Scorpions want to avoid people as much as possible, but sometimes they end up inside homes and crawling along walls outside homes, too. Ensuring the house is sealed up and there is no way for scorpions to crawl inside can help prevent scorpion infestations and is the best way to avoid being stung in your home. Checking clothing and shoes before putting them on in scorpion-heavy areas is important, too. Learn more about how to get rid of scorpions.
Western Exterminator is the local expert in scorpion removal, prevention, and treatment. If you have been seeing scorpions around your home or on your property, don't risk being stung. Professional scorpion control can help eliminate scorpions and prevent them from entering your home.
Scorpion venom affects people in different ways, and not everyone reacts in the same manner. Some experience mild pain, while others may develop more severe symptoms. Factors like age, allergies, or underlying health conditions, such as heart or respiratory issues, can influence how someone responds. In rare cases, people may experience an allergic reaction. Because reactions vary, it's important to monitor symptoms closely and seek medical attention if you're concerned.
If you are stung by a scorpion, you will most likely feel the sting. It is very similar to a bee sting and may feel like an intense, sharp pain. Scorpion sting symptoms may include:
People who have an allergic reaction to the scorpion sting may also experience:
This list is not exhaustive, and should not be taken as medical advice. If you experience any of the symptoms listed here, or experience other symptoms you’re worried about, seek medical attention immediately.
If you are stung by a scorpion, it is best to seek medical attention and monitor your symptoms. If you can give information about the scorpion or provide a picture, the doctors might be able to provide a more effective treatment.
There are several types of scorpions in the United States, but most aren’t dangerous to people. One notable exception is the Arizona bark scorpion, which is primarily found in the southwestern U.S.
Arizona bark scorpions have the following characteristics:
The Arizona bark scorpion is the most venomous scorpion found in North America. Being stung by one may cause severe symptoms, especially in children, older adults, or people with health conditions. If there's a chance you've been stung by one, it’s best to get medical help right away.
No, scorpions are not aggressive by nature. They tend to avoid people and sting only when they feel threatened. Most encounters happen when a scorpion is accidentally disturbed.
In most cases, no. While stings can be painful, they are rarely life-threatening. The Arizona bark scorpion is considered the most dangerous, but stings aren’t likely to prove fatal. However, young children, older adults, and people with health issues may have stronger reactions.
Stay calm and clean the area with soap and water. Keep an eye on symptoms and seek medical attention if you’re unsure or if symptoms worsen. If safe to do so, try to capture the scorpion for identification.
Not always. Some stings may show redness or swelling, while others leave no visible sign. The presence of a mark can depend on the type of scorpion and the person’s skin reaction.
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