Scorpion microhabitat in Arizona?

Question

My son and I are vacationing in the Sonora Desert near Phoenix, and he is interested in observing arachnid life here (which is evidently quite diverse)-Does anyone know the best method of finding the different species, and what time, area, microhabitat we should look for? Thank you very much

Answer 1

Most of the other answers are correct too. Scorpions, Uropygii, spiders and solfugids have various times at which they are most active. Scorpions and spiders can be seen mostly at night, typically in late evening. Arthropods in the deserts of north America contend with incredible heat throughout the day and cooler temperatures at night. Most arthropods hide during the day, typically under rocks and debris and some species will also bury themselves under the sand for relief. Scorpions can be easily viewed with a black light, they will look a bright purple under the dark backdrop of night time, they are easily seen.
The best way to find any small critters in the desert is to find a rock pile, these are typically arthropod hotspots. Flip some rocks (wearing gloves) and see what you get. Many scorpions and centipedes will remain on the underside of the rocks, this is why I suggest wearing gloves, I know people who have been stung like that before.

I hope this helps!

Answer 2

I'm in Australia but I would assume scorpions would possess similar ecological requirements as for Arizona (huge statement!?).
As a general rule they require fairly moist cool micro-habitats like beneath rocks while sheltering during the day being active at night (thigmotactic). As their exoskeletons fluoresce under ultraviolet light it may be possible to scan around at night time.
Scorpions also utilize the burrows of other animals such as rodents.
You can also look for signs of their trails in the sand and follow where they are sheltering.
Cheers and have a great holiday.

Answer 3

Scorpions and most spiders are quite active at night. Scorpions will glow green under an ultra-violet light which makes them easy to find. Check this site.

www.desertmuseum.org/books/nhsd_scorpions_new.html

Answer 4

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