There are several advantages to living in Arizona. When winter is raging with snowfall and freezing temperatures in most of the US, Arizonans can still go outside in short shorts and shirts. However, the extreme heat and dryness of Arizona provide particular challenges. One of these is the presence of scorpions in cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale. Like many other animals, Scorpions like the hot, dry weather of their native state.

If you live in or want to visit Arizona, you should know what to expect from the Arizona Bark Scorpion and how to deal with it as a homeowner.

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Everything You Need to Know about the Arizona Bark Scorpion

Residents of Phoenix know that scorpions are more active when the temperature rises. There is no more dangerous scorpion in America than the Arizona Bark Scorpion.

So many aspects of bark scorpions set them apart from other scorpions. Having a reputation is not surprising, as generations of residents have passed on stories about previous stings and encounters.

We’ll take a glance at some of the most crucial information regarding Bark Scorpions that you should know in this article.

1. They’re nocturnal predators.

Nighttime is prime time for these nocturnal hunters, who are on the prowl for various insects, spiders, and roaches.

If you have a property with many block walls, river stones in your lawn, or other areas to hide, you’re more likely to find bark scorpions. They also enjoy certain tree species, as implied by their name.

2. The majority of scorpion stings are unintentional.

Toss out the Hollywood trope of a giant scorpion slithering down a crypt after unsuspecting victims. In most cases, bark scorpions are non-aggressive and avoid humans.

When someone brushes against or steps on a scorpion, the odds of getting stung increase dramatically, the scorpion uses its sting as a reflexive defense against potential predators.

3. Invest in a blacklight.

For reasons no one seems to know, scorpions glow when a blacklight is pointed at them—making it a handy tool if you need to reach into a dark corner at night.

4. Summertime is their favorite time of year.

Phoenix’s bark scorpions may be the only living creature to appreciate this year’s scorching weather. Their prey—like bugs and crickets—also benefit in the warm summer months, especially after monsoon rainfall. In Phoenix, summer means bark scorpions.

During July and August, scorpion behavior and hunting tend to increase. While scorpion sightings are not unheard of at other times of the year, the coldest periods are when they are most likely to be dormant.

5. You’ll see increased scorpion sightings when land or plants are being churned up.

Here’s the truth straight from the local’s mouth — if you are planning on moving into a new build / new construction home, you will likely think your home has a scorpion problem. It’s not a coincidence that pest control companies make it a habit of going door-to-door around new construction sites trying to cash in on freaked-out homeowners who are more likely to spot one, especially if you’re moving anywhere in the hot zones, according to this map.

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What to do if you’re stung by a bark scorpion

Unfortunately, as someone who has experienced this, I wish you my sincerest sympathy. The next few hours will hurt a bit, and the next few weeks to months are going to be numb at the sight of the sting. If you’re especially freaked out, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222, and they will be there to answer any questions you have. See a doctor immediately if you’ve been stung anywhere above your shoulders or if a child has been stung.

1. Identify the scorpion if you can, just in case

There are many species of scorpions living in Arizona, but unfortunately, the most venomous (the bark scorpion) is the most common.

2. Don’t panic

Unless you’re in the scenario listed above, don’t be scared. It will hurt for a few hours and then likely go numb, but stings can be treated with at-home remedies. If you feel like the pain is starting to spread, see a doctor. If you need more info on when to see the doctor and the symptoms you may face, check out this Mayo Clinic article for more information.

3. Take OTC pain medication

Find your favorite brand for curbing pain, follow the directions listed on the bottle, and dose yourself. It’s going to take a few hours for the pain to subside.

4. Use a cold compress

Apply a cold compress to the sight for some relief. This cold compress is going to be your best friend for the next few hours.

While the sight of scorpions can be scary to most people and the threat of their sting is especially daunting, they’re an important preditor to other pests such as crickets. So let’s be kind to our scary little Arizona neighbors — just don’t give them a pat.

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