Scorpions
Like bees and spiders, scorpions are arthropods. Only one of the 30 species of scorpions found in Arizona is regarded as life-threatening: the Bark Scorpion (Centruroides exilicauda). It may be distinguished from other less toxic species by its more slender tail segments and pincers. Reaching only an inch and a half at maturity, it is a comparatively small scorpion. It is also the best climber of the scorpion species.
Scorpions are relatively inactive during the daylight hours. The majority of stings reported to the poison center occur at night during the warm summer months.
View one or two videos about scorpion research. Check out the Arizona Health Sciences Center report or the segment from KUAT's Arizona Illustrated news show about scorpion antivenom research conducted in part by the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center.
Signs & Symptoms: Scorpion stings can cause immediate local pain with minimal swelling. Numbness and tingling are frequently reported. The injured area may be very sensitive to touch, pressure, heat and cold.
Small children are at highest risk of severe reactions. They can show jerky body and wild eye movements.
First Aid: The majority of stings occurring in healthy young adults may be managed at home with basic first aid measures and follow-up.
First aid should include
- cleaning the site with soap and water
- cool compress
- elevating the affected limb to approximately heart level
- aspirin or Tylenol as needed for minor discomfort
Stings occurring in children or any patient experiencing severe symptoms should be seen at a medical facility immediately.
Call 1-800-222-1222 if a child under 5 has been bitten or if an older patient is experiencing more than minor discomfort.
Want to see more? View short video clips of a scorpion stinging and scorpions overcoming conditions that would destroy humans.
Scorpion stinging a cricket Video (Flash) or
Scorpion stinging a cricket (Streaming Real Video - Download player)
Scorpion stinging a finger Video (Flash) or
Scorpion stinging a finger (Streaming Real Video - Download player)
Freezing a Scorpion Video (Flash) or
Freezing a scorpion (Streaming Real Video - Download player)