Arizona’s diverse wildlife includes some of the most painful and poisonous creatures found in the desert. From the excruciating sting of the tarantula hawk wasp to the potentially life-threatening bite of the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, the state is home to a variety of insects, arachnids, and reptiles capable of delivering intense pain or potent venom.
The Arizona bark scorpion, with its sharp, electric sting, and the aggressive Africanized honey bee, known for its painful stings and swarming behavior, further highlight the potential risks. Meanwhile, the giant desert centipede and desert hairy scorpion, though less deadly, still pose significant discomfort.
Here is everything you need to know about the 10 meanest bugs in Arizona.
Arizona bark scorpion
The Arizona bark scorpion delivers an intensely painful sting, often described as sharp and electric, causing numbness, tingling and muscle spasms. The venom, while rarely fatal, can cause severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, particularly in children and older peopole. Immediate medical attention is recommended, especially if symptoms are severe.