Tucson is famous for its beautiful desert landscapes, diverse wildlife, and captivating sunsets. However, living here means sharing your space with some rather interesting arachnids. Whether you’re a local, a new resident, or planning a visit, understanding the arachnids you might encounter can help you stay safe and appreciate these fascinating creatures from a distance.
This guide will introduce you to the most common arachnids in Tucson, including where you’re likely to find them, tips for identifying them, and some important safety guidelines. Let’s explore the tiny eight-legged wonders of the desert together!
What Are Arachnids?
Before we jump into Tucson’s native species, it’s helpful to understand what defines an arachnid. Arachnids are a class of joint-legged invertebrates that include spiders, scorpions, ticks, and mites. These creatures have two main body parts (the cephalothorax and abdomen), eight legs, and lack wings or antennae. Most arachnids are harmless to humans, but a few species can deliver venomous bites or stings that warrant caution.
The Most Common Arachnids in Tucson
Tucson boasts a unique desert ecosystem, creating the perfect habitat for various types of arachnids. Below are the ones you’re most likely to spot.
1. Brown Recluse Spider (Loxosceles reclusa)
The brown recluse is one of the most infamous spiders in the United States, and it can occasionally be found in Arizona, including Tucson.
Identifying Characteristics:
- Light-to-medium brown body with a violin-shaped marking on its back.
- Grows up to 7–12mm in length (excluding the legs).
Where They Live:
- Prefers quiet, undisturbed areas such as closets, garages, and under furniture.
- Outdoors, they may hide under rocks or woodpiles.
Fun Fact: Though their venom can cause skin irritation or necrosis, bites are rare as brown recluses are shy and typically avoid humans.
2. Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus)
No arachnid list for Tucson would be complete without including the Arizona bark scorpion. These small but memorable creatures are emblematic of desert life.
Identifying Characteristics:
- Pale yellow in color with a slender body and narrow pincers.
- Measures about 2–3 inches long.
Where They Live:
- Often found in cool, moist areas such as under rocks, logs, or bark.
- May occasionally enter homes during hot weather.
Safety Tip: Bark scorpion stings can be painful and potentially dangerous, especially for children or those allergic to venom. Use UV lights to spot them at night since their exoskeleton glows under black light.
3. Western Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus hesperus)
The western black widow is harder to miss, thanks to its striking appearance. Known for its potent venom, this spider is another notable Tucson resident.
Identifying Characteristics:
- Glossy black body with a distinct red hourglass marking on the underside of its abdomen.
- Females are larger (about 1.5 inches with the legs) compared to males.
Where They Live:
- Prefers dark, undisturbed corners, such as sheds, garages, and under outdoor furniture.
- Black widows construct irregular webbing close to the ground.
Fun Fact: Despite their intimidating reputation, black widows are non-aggressive and will only bite when provoked.
4. Tarantulas (Aphonopelma chalcodes)
Tarantulas may look fierce, but these large, hairy spiders are more docile than many Tucson arachnids.
Identifying Characteristics:
- Large and hairy, with coloring ranging from light brown to black.
- Can grow up to 4–6 inches in leg span.
Where They Live:
- Found in burrows or hollow logs in the Sonoran Desert.
- Most active during monsoon season or late summer evenings.
Fun Fact: Male tarantulas often go on long treks during mating season, which is why you’re more likely to spot them crossing roads in late summer.
5. Camel Spider (Solifugae)
Though not technically a spider, camel spiders (also called wind scorpions) are an arachnid worth noting, thanks to their unusual appearance and speed.
Identifying Characteristics:
- Tan or sandy-colored, resembling a hybrid between a spider and a scorpion.
- Fast-moving and can grow up to 6 inches long.
Where They Live:
- Desert areas, hiding under rocks or burrowed in sandy terrain.
Debunking Myths: Despite urban legends, camel spiders are not venomous and pose no danger to humans.
6. Arizona Giant Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis)
The Arizona giant hairy scorpion is the largest species of scorpions in the region and is commonly seen in Tucson.
Identifying Characteristics:
- Yellow body with dark coloring on the back and fine hairs across its body.
- Can reach lengths of up to 6 inches.
Where They Live:
- Found in desert shrubs, burrowed tunnels, or under rocks.
- Like most scorpions, they are nocturnal.
Fun Fact: Their venom is mild compared to the bark scorpion, but their intimidating size can give anyone a scare!
Staying Safe Around Arachnids
Arachnids may look intimidating, but they rarely pose a threat if left undisturbed. Here are some tips to ensure your safety while cohabiting with these eight-legged creatures in Tucson:
- Shake Out Shoes and Clothing: Always shake out shoes, clothing, and bedding if they’ve been left on the floor or outside.
- Seal Up Cracks: Keep your home pest-free by sealing potential entry points such as cracks, vents, and gaps under doors.
- Use Gloves When Gardening: Protect your hands when landscaping by wearing gloves, especially when moving rocks or logs.
- Be Cautious at Night: Many arachnids are nocturnal, so be careful when walking around after dark. Use a black light for spotting scorpions.
Appreciate Arachnids, but Keep a Safe Distance
Arachnids play an important role in Tucson’s ecosystem, helping control insect populations and ensuring balance within the desert environment. While some may seem imposing, most pose minimal risk if respected and observed from a safe distance.
Should you encounter one of these common arachnids in your home or yard, resist the urge to panic. Instead, take a moment to appreciate the fascinating world of desert wildlife.
Got a unique arachnid encounter story? Share it with us in the comments below!
