Arizona Travel Guide: Venomous Creatures

Those who are planning to take part in outdoor activities in Arizona should be aware that the state is home to some of the deadliest animals in the country. In the year 2008, close to 5,000 Arizona residents visited emergency departments in hospitals for treatment of reptile and insect envenomations. Although very few people died from animal envenomations in the state, it is still essential for both residents and tourists to know the kinds of threats that they are exposed to when they are indulging in outdoor activities. By understanding the behavioral traits and deadliness of different venomous creatures, outdoor adventurers can reduce their chances of being bitten and envenomed by animals.

Every state in the US has venomous creatures, and Arizona may not have as many venomous animals as other states. Nonetheless, the diversity of venomous fauna in Arizona is one of the highest in the country, mainly because of the tropical influences that are present in the state. Although most of the venomous creatures in Arizona cannot kill a human being, there are a few species that can cause fatality. Outdoor enthusiasts should find out which particular venomous species they should be wary of. Here is a list of links to information about different venomous animals that can be found in the state of Arizona.

• Bark Scorpion: Fact sheet that reveals interesting information about the Bark Scorpion.
• Desert Hairy Scorpion: Find out more about the venomous Desert Hairy Scorpion.
• Africanized Honey Bee: Comprehensive description of the Africanized Honey Bee.
• Velvet Ant: Learn more about the Velvet Ant or “Cow Killer” from this document.
• Wasps in Arizona: This article describes different types of venomous wasps in Arizona.
• Blister Beetle: Facts about the Blister Beetle, and management strategies.

• Brown Recluse Spider: Information about the dangerously venomous Brown Recluse Spider.
• Black Widow Spider: Document that discusses the characteristics of the Black Widow Spider.
• Tarantula: This web page contains interesting facts about the Tarantula.

• Gila Monster: Images and description of the poisonous Gila Monster.

• Western Diamondback Rattlesnake: An article that provides brief information about the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake.
• Arizona Coral Snake: A small native Arizona snake that is mildly poisonous.
• Sidewinder: Read this document to learn more about the Sidewinder.
• Mojave Rattlesnake: Excellent description of the highly poisonous Mojave Rattlesnake.
• Hopi Rattlesnake: Basic facts about the Hopi Rattlesnake.
• Twin-Spotted Rattlesnake: Find out about the characteristics of the Twin-Spotted Rattlesnake in this website.
• Arizona Rattlesnakes: A guide from the Arizona Game and Fish Department on rattlesnakes native to Arizona.

• Giant Desert Centipede: Brief overview of the Giant Desert Centipede.
• Centipede Bites: Explains the frequency, symptoms and treatment of venomous centipede bites.
• Puss Caterpillar: Fast facts on the poisonous puss caterpillar.
• Colorado River Toad: Characteristics, habitat, and behavior of the Colorado River Toad.
• Conenose Bug: General information on the Conenose Bug.

• Bites and Stings: Important tips on how to prevent and treat bites and stings of different types of venomous creatures in Arizona.
• Managing Envenomation: Useful advice for outdoor enthusiasts who may encounter poisonous animals in Arizona.
• Safety in the Desert: This article offers excellent safety tips for adventurers in the desert.
• Todd's Desert Hiking Guide Warning: A great informational guide of what to watch out for when hiking in the desert.
• Dealing with Snake Bites: Guidelines for avoiding and dealing with snake bites.
• First Aid for Spider Bites: First aid tips for treating venomous spider bites.
• Treating Scorpion Stings: Helpful instructions for treating scorpion stings.