Scorpion, Arizona Desert Hairy (Hadrurus arizonensis)
Animal facts
Size
This is a fairly large scorpion which can reach lengths of 5.6 to 6 inches.
Habitat and Distribution
This species can be found throughout most of the Sonoran and Mojave deserts in north America. This desert species is adapted to very hot and dry climates and will dig burrows of up to 2.5 meters in length to escape the day time heat and allow it to find some moisture.
Age
This scorpion has been recorded to live for over 25 years.
Diet
This species feeds on a variety of prey items including insects and small vertebrates such as young mammals and birds. Due to its relatively large size it is also able to consume other scorpions.
Groups and Breeding
This is a fairly solitary species which gives birth to around 15 to 35 live young after mating. These young will remain with their mother (riding on her back) for around a week before dispersing.
Threats
This scorpion has few threats in the wild although is preyed upon by some other animals. It is rarely affected by human contact due to its remote distribution.
Interesting fact's
Even though it has a relatively large size it has a fairly weak venom which in most cases is not fatal, and can be compared in toxicity to a honey bee sting, however as with bees and wasps an allergic reaction can be fatal if left untreated.