What are the symptoms of a scorpion sting. How is a scorpion sting treated. What does a scorpion sting feel like. How can scorpion stings be prevented. What are the differences between mild and serious scorpion stings. When should you seek medical help for a scorpion sting. What are the characteristics of the dangerous bark scorpion.

Understanding Scorpions: Characteristics and Types

Scorpions are fascinating arachnids often misunderstood due to their intimidating appearance. These creatures resemble tiny lobsters with their front pincers and possess a distinctive curled tail ending in a venomous stinger. With eight legs like spiders, scorpions range in size from 1 to 7 inches (2.5 to 18 cm), with an average length of 3 inches (7.5 cm).

Nocturnal by nature, scorpions prefer dark and moist environments. The United States is home to approximately 40 different species of scorpions. While all scorpions can sting, causing localized pain and discomfort, it’s important to note that not all stings inject venom.

The Bark Scorpion: A Unique Threat

Among the various scorpion species in the US, the bark scorpion stands out as the only one capable of causing serious symptoms. Here are some key characteristics of the bark scorpion:

• Color: Yellow-brown (tan) or orange
• Size: 2-3 inches long (5-7.5 cm)
• Habitat: Primarily found in Arizona, with some presence in New Mexico, Nevada, California, and Texas
• Range: Also found in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean

It’s worth noting that distinguishing a bark scorpion from a harmless scorpion is challenging for most people. In case of a sting, it’s not necessary to capture or save the scorpion for identification, as treatment is based on symptoms rather than species.

Scorpion Sting Symptoms: From Mild to Severe

Scorpion stings can produce a range of symptoms, varying from mild discomfort to severe reactions. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for proper treatment and knowing when to seek medical attention.

Mild Symptoms of a Scorpion Sting

The majority of scorpion stings result in localized symptoms at the sting site. These include:

• Immediate pain
• Tingling sensation
• Numbness around the sting area

The pain can be intense for the first two hours but typically subsides within 24 hours. Interestingly, there’s often no visible swelling or redness at the sting site. In about 10% of cases, victims may experience waves of tingling that travel up the affected limb, resembling an electric shock sensation.

Serious Symptoms of a Scorpion Sting

While rare, some scorpion stings can lead to more severe symptoms, particularly those from the bark scorpion. These serious symptoms usually manifest within the first 2-3 hours after the sting and may include:

• Muscle twitching
• Rapid eye movements
• Widespread pain, tingling, and numbness in all limbs
• Difficulty swallowing
• Trouble breathing
• Blurred vision
• Roving or jerky eye movements
• Slurred speech

It’s important to note that children, older adults, and individuals with chronic medical conditions are at higher risk of experiencing severe symptoms.

Scorpion Sting Treatment: First Aid and Medical Care

Proper treatment of a scorpion sting is essential to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. The approach to treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms.

First Aid for Minor Scorpion Stings

For mild scorpion stings with localized symptoms, the following first aid measures can be taken at home:

1. Clean the sting site thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a wet cloth to the sting area for 20 minutes to reduce pain and swelling.
3. Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) as needed.
4. For painful shock waves traveling up the affected limb, continue pain medication and avoid bumping the area.

Most minor scorpion stings resolve within 24 hours, although numbness and tingling around the sting site may persist for 2 to 3 days.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most scorpion stings can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical care. Call 911 or seek emergency medical attention if the victim experiences:

• Loss of consciousness or extreme weakness
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Drooling or trouble swallowing
• Seizures or muscle jerking
• Widespread hives or swelling

Additionally, contact a healthcare provider if redness spreads more than 24 hours after the sting or if the last tetanus shot was over 10 years ago.

Bark Scorpion Sting: Understanding the Risks

The bark scorpion, unique in its potential to cause serious symptoms, requires special attention. While deaths from scorpion stings in the US are rare, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks associated with bark scorpion stings.

Types of Reactions to Bark Scorpion Stings

Bark scorpion stings can result in various reactions:

• Approximately 85% cause only local symptoms at the sting site.
• About 10% lead to painful shock waves in the limb where the sting occurred.
• Less than 5% result in any serious symptoms.

While these statistics are reassuring, it’s important to remain vigilant and monitor for any signs of a severe reaction, especially in vulnerable populations such as children and older adults.

Preventing Scorpion Stings: Practical Tips

Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to scorpion stings. Here are some practical measures to reduce the risk of encountering scorpions and getting stung:

• Seal cracks and crevices in your home’s foundation and walls to prevent scorpions from entering.
• Remove piles of wood, rocks, or debris from around your house, as these provide ideal hiding spots for scorpions.
• Wear closed-toe shoes, especially when walking outside at night.
• Shake out shoes, clothing, and bedding before use, particularly if they’ve been left undisturbed for a while.
• Use gloves when working in the garden or moving outdoor objects.
• Consider installing weatherstripping around doors and windows to create a tighter seal.
• Keep your lawn well-maintained and free of overgrown vegetation.

By implementing these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering scorpions and experiencing a sting.

Scorpion Sting Pain: What Does It Feel Like?

One of the most common questions about scorpion stings is: what does it feel like? The sensation of a scorpion sting can vary depending on the species and the individual’s reaction, but there are some general characteristics:

• Immediate, intense pain at the sting site
• A burning or throbbing sensation
• Tingling or numbness around the affected area
• Possible waves of tingling or “electric shock” sensations traveling up the limb

Many describe the pain as similar to a severe bee sting, though it can be more intense and longer-lasting. The pain is typically most severe in the first two hours and gradually subsides over the next 24 hours.

It’s important to note that while the pain can be significant, it’s rarely dangerous in itself. The concern with scorpion stings lies more in the potential for systemic symptoms, particularly with bark scorpion stings.

Scorpion Sting Aftercare: Managing Lingering Symptoms

Even after the initial pain and discomfort of a scorpion sting subside, some individuals may experience lingering symptoms. Understanding how to manage these symptoms is crucial for a full recovery.

Dealing with Residual Pain and Numbness

While most of the pain from a scorpion sting typically resolves within 24 hours, some individuals may experience residual discomfort:

• Continue using over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
• Apply a cold compress to the area if there’s any lingering swelling or tenderness.
• Gently massage the area to promote circulation and potentially reduce numbness.

Monitoring for Delayed Reactions

Although rare, some individuals might experience delayed reactions to scorpion stings. Keep an eye out for:

• Spreading redness or warmth around the sting site
• Fever or chills
• Persistent or worsening pain
• Any new symptoms that weren’t present initially

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider promptly.

Emotional Aftercare

For some people, particularly children, a scorpion sting can be a traumatic experience. It’s important to address any lingering fears or anxiety:

• Reassure children (and adults) that most scorpion stings are not dangerous.
• Educate family members about scorpion prevention to increase confidence.
• If anxiety persists, consider speaking with a mental health professional.

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of scorpion sting aftercare, you can ensure a more complete recovery and peace of mind.

Scorpion Sting Myths and Facts: Separating Truth from Fiction

There are many myths surrounding scorpion stings, which can lead to confusion and unnecessary fear. Let’s examine some common misconceptions and reveal the facts:

Myth: All Scorpion Stings Are Deadly

Fact: While scorpion stings can be painful, the vast majority are not life-threatening. In the United States, only the bark scorpion has the potential to cause severe symptoms, and even then, deaths are extremely rare.

Myth: You Should Suck Out the Venom

Fact: Attempting to suck out the venom from a scorpion sting is ineffective and potentially harmful. It doesn’t remove significant amounts of venom and can introduce bacteria to the wound.

Myth: Applying a Tourniquet Helps

Fact: Applying a tourniquet to a limb with a scorpion sting is not recommended. It doesn’t prevent the spread of venom and can cause tissue damage.

Myth: Scorpions Always Inject Venom

Fact: Not all scorpion stings inject venom. Some stings are “dry,” meaning no venom is released.

Myth: You Need to Catch the Scorpion for Treatment

Fact: While identifying the scorpion can be helpful, it’s not necessary for treatment. Medical care is based on symptoms rather than the specific species of scorpion.

Understanding these facts can help alleviate unnecessary anxiety and ensure proper response to scorpion stings.

Global Perspective: Scorpion Stings Around the World

While this article has focused primarily on scorpions in the United States, it’s important to recognize that scorpion stings are a significant health concern in many parts of the world. Let’s take a broader look at the global impact of scorpion stings:

Regions with High Incidence

Scorpion stings are particularly prevalent in:

• North Africa
• Middle East
• South America
• India
• Mexico

In these regions, certain species of scorpions can pose serious health risks, with stings potentially leading to severe symptoms and, in rare cases, death.

Global Health Impact

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that annually:

• Over 1 million scorpion stings occur worldwide
• Approximately 3,250 deaths result from scorpion stings

These numbers highlight the importance of global efforts in scorpion sting prevention and treatment, particularly in regions where dangerous species are prevalent.

Variations in Treatment Approaches

Treatment for scorpion stings can vary globally based on local species and available resources:

• In some countries, specific anti-venom is available for dangerous scorpion species.
• Traditional remedies are still used in some regions, though their efficacy is often not scientifically proven.
• Access to medical care and appropriate treatments can vary significantly between urban and rural areas in many countries.

Understanding these global variations is crucial for travelers and for appreciating the broader context of scorpion sting management worldwide.

Research and Advances in Scorpion Sting Treatment

The field of scorpion sting treatment is continually evolving, with ongoing research aimed at improving outcomes and developing new therapies. Here’s a look at some of the recent advances and areas of focus in scorpion sting research:

Antivenom Development

Researchers are working on improving existing antivenoms and developing new ones:

• More specific antivenoms targeting particular scorpion species
• Efforts to reduce side effects associated with antivenom administration
• Research into oral antivenoms that could be more easily stored and administered

Pain Management Innovations

New approaches to managing the intense pain associated with scorpion stings are being explored:

• Novel analgesic compounds targeting scorpion venom-induced pain pathways
• Investigation of topical treatments to provide localized pain relief

Molecular and Genetic Research

Scientists are delving deeper into the molecular mechanisms of scorpion venom:

• Studying the genetic makeup of different scorpion species to better understand venom composition
• Exploring potential medical applications of scorpion venom components

Ecological Studies

Research on scorpion habitats and behavior is ongoing:

• Investigating the impact of climate change on scorpion populations and distribution
• Developing more effective and environmentally friendly scorpion control methods

These research efforts hold promise for improving our understanding of scorpion stings and enhancing treatment options in the future.

Scorpion Sting

Is this your child’s symptom?

• Sting from a scorpion
• Onset of local pain and tingling after a scorpion is seen in the area
• The main symptoms are pain, tingling and numbness at the sting site

Scorpions

• Scorpions look like tiny lobsters in front. In back, they have a long tail with a stinger at the end. It curls up and over their bodies. They have 8 legs, like spiders.
• Venom: The stinger has venom. The venom causes pain and other symptoms when it is shot into the skin.
• Size: average size is 3 inches (7.5 cm). Range in size from 1 – 7 inches (2.5 to 18 cm).
• Scorpions are most active at night. They like dark and moist places.
• There are about 40 types of scorpions in the US.
• All scorpions can sting, causing pain, tingling, and numbness at the sting site. Note: Some stings do not inject venom.
• The only US scorpion that can cause serious symptoms is the bark scorpion. See below.
• Children and older adults are more likely to have severe symptoms. People with chronic medical problems are also at higher risk.

Bark Scorpion

• The only US scorpion that can cause serious symptoms is the bark scorpion.
• Color: bark scorpions are yellow-brown (tan) or orange in color.
• Size: 2-3 inches long (5-7.5 cm)
• They are found mostly in Arizona. Also can be found in New Mexico, Nevada, California, and Texas. They also live in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
• Deaths in the US from a scorpion sting are rare.
• Note: Most people cannot tell a bark scorpion from a harmless scorpion. Catching or saving the scorpion to show your doctor is not helpful. Treatment is based on symptoms. Just kill the intruder.

Types of Reactions for Bark Scorpion Stings

• About 85% cause only local symptoms at the sting site.
• About 10% cause painful shock waves in the same arm or leg as the sting.
• Less than 5% cause any serious symptoms.

Mild Symptoms of a Scorpion Sting

• All scorpion stings cause pain, tingling, and numbness at the sting site.
• Pain starts right away. The pain can be severe for the first 2 hours. Symptoms around the site start to go away over the next 24 hours.
• There is often no swelling or redness of the sting.
• About 10% of stings also cause waves of tingling. The tingling travels up the stung arm or leg. It feels like an electric shock.
• Most scorpion stings do not need to be seen.

Serious Symptoms of a Scorpion Sting

Most people will not get any serious symptoms. If they do occur, they will start in the first 2-3 hours after the sting. First signs of a serious sting can be muscle twitching or rapid eye movements. Pain, tingling and numbness can also spread to all the arms and legs. Other serious symptoms include:

• Trouble swallowing
• Trouble breathing
• Blurry eyesight
• Roving or jerky eye movements
• Slurred speech
• Muscle twitching

Expert Reviewers:

• Anne-Michelle Ruha, MD, and Min Kang, MD, pediatric toxicologists

When to Call for Scorpion Sting

Call 911 Now

• Passed out or too weak to stand
• Trouble breathing or wheezing
• Drooling or trouble swallowing
• Seizure or muscle jerking
• Hives or swelling all over the body
• You think your child has a life-threatening emergency

Contact Doctor Within 24 Hours

• Spreading redness that started more than 24 hours after the sting
• You think your child needs to be seen, but the problem is not urgent

Contact Doctor During Office Hours

• Last tetanus shot was more than 10 years ago
• You have other questions or concerns

Self Care at Home

• Minor scorpion sting with symptoms only around the sting
• Waves of tingling and pain only up the arm or leg with the sting
• Preventing scorpion stings

Seattle Children’s Urgent Care Locations

If your child’s illness or injury is life-threatening, call 911.

Care Advice

Scorpion Sting Treatment

1. What You Should Know about Scorpion Stings:
   • The main symptoms are pain, tingling and numbness only in the sting area.
   • Symptoms shouldn’t be any worse than a bad bee sting.
   • Sometimes, the arm or leg with the sting gets waves of tingling and pain.
   • Here is some care advice that should help.
2. Clean the Sting Site:
   • Wash the sting site well with soap and water.
3. Cold Pack for Pain:
   • For pain or swelling, use a cold pack. You can also use ice wrapped in a wet cloth.
   • Put it on the sting for 20 minutes.
4. Pain Medicine:
   • To help with the pain, give an acetaminophen product (such as Tylenol).
   • Another choice is an ibuprofen product (such as Advil).
   • Use as needed.
5. Treatment of Painful Shock Waves up the Arm or Leg:
   • Until they go away, keep using the pain medicine as needed.
   • Also, try to avoid bumping that arm or leg.
6. What to Expect:
   • Pain at the sting site is usually gone by 24 hours.
   • Shock waves of tingling also gone by 24 hours.
   • Numbness and tingling around the sting may last 2 to 3 days.
7. Call Your Doctor If:
   • Serious symptoms occur
   • Pain, tingling or numbness start on both sides of the body
   • Sting starts to look infected
   • You think your child needs to be seen
   • Your child becomes worse

Prevent Scorpion Stings

1. Prevent Scorpion Stings:
   • Do not walk barefoot in the desert, especially at night. Scorpions are most active at night.
   • Check your shoes before you put them on (shake them).
   • Shake out clothes, towels, bedding, and sleeping bags before using.
   • Roll back your sheets at night, before getting into bed.
2. Prevent Scorpions Around Your Home:
   • Clear away any piles of wood or debris that are near the house. Scorpions hide there.
   • Weatherstrip your windows and doors.
   • Place the legs of a baby’s crib in wide-mouthed glass jars. Scorpions can’t climb glass.
   • Hire a pest control expert for repeated problems.
3. Call Your Doctor If:

And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the ‘Call Your Doctor’ symptoms.

Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.

Last Reviewed: 09/25/2021

Last Revised: 03/11/2021

Copyright 2000-2021. Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC.

Hey! A Scorpion Stung Me! (for Kids)

What’s a Scorpion?

A scorpion is part of the arachnid family, which also includes mites, ticks, and spiders. Scorpions are about 3 inches long (about the length of a crayon), with eight legs and a small pair of claws that look like crabs’ claws. A scorpion’s stinger is at the end of its long tail.

There are more than 1,000 species of scorpions all over the world, and at least 70 species are found in the United States, mostly in the southwestern states and Florida. Of these species, only one type of scorpion, which usually lives in Arizona, New Mexico, and other southwestern states, can kill people.

Scorpions like to live in cool, damp places like basements, woodpiles, and junk piles. Usually, they’re nocturnal (they sleep during the day and come out at night) and more active when it rains.

What a Sting Looks and Feels Like

If a person gets stung by a scorpion, the area of the sting will hurt and may get swollen or red, depending on the type of scorpion. More severe reactions from the venom (poison) involving other parts of the body also can occur.

What You Should Do

If you ever think you’ve been stung by a scorpion, tell an adult immediately. With an adult’s help, put an ice pack on the sting to keep down swelling.

Because it’s hard to tell a dangerous scorpion from one that is harmless, all scorpion stings must be treated by a doctor. Capture the scorpion for identification if it is possible to do so safely, and bring it with you to the doctor. Knowing the type of scorpion that caused the sting may make treatment easier.

What a Doctor Will Do

Doctors treat someone stung by a scorpion with medications, if needed, that help take pain away and control the body’s reactions to the venom. They may give a medicine (called

antivenin) that fights the scorpion’s venom to someone who doesn’t get better with the other medications.

How to Avoid Getting Stung

The best way to avoid getting stung by scorpions is to avoid the places where they like to spend time. Don’t play in junk piles or woodpiles, and if you are working outside with big piles of logs, wear gloves. If you live in the American Southwest and keep your shoes in a garage, basement, or mudroom, shake them out carefully before putting them on.

Scorpion Sting | Symptoms and Treatments of Scorpion Sting

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Scorpion Sting Definition

Scorpion stings are painful. Many may go through minor problems like swelling, tingling or numbness due to the sting. A bark scorpion sting can cause severe symptoms, as its venom is more potent. Young children and older adults may require immediate treatment.

Scorpion Sting Risk Factors

The factors that may increase the risk of scorpion stings are location, environment, season and travel. Scorpions are found in the deserts of Arizona, Mexico, South America, north and South Africa, Middle East and India.

Another factor is the environment. Bark scorpions, commonly known as house scorpion and can be hiding in the firewood, bed linen, clothes, garbage pails, and shoes. Scorpions are more likely to be seen during spring and summer. It is more likely to encounter dangerous scorpions when on a hike or camping.

Scorpion Sting Symptoms

Scorpion stings symptoms are:

• Intense pain
• Tingling and numbness in the area around the sting
• Swelling around the sting area

If a bark scorpion bites, severe symptoms are visible, which are as follows:

• Unusual head, neck and eye movements
• Muscle twitching or thrashing
• Sweating
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Accelerated heart rate or irregular heartbeat
• High or low blood pressure levels
• Restlessness or anxiety or crying profusely (in children)

If a child is stung by a scorpion, immediately get medical help. If adults manifest a variety of symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

Scorpion Sting Diagnosis

Scorpion sting is usually diagnosed based on the symptoms. In case of severity of symptoms, doctors may recommend blood tests or imaging tests to check whether the venom has affected other body organs.

Scorpion Sting Treatments

Medical treatment for scorpion sting is not always required. But venomous stings should be taken seriously. Doctors may advise hospitalization, followed by bed rest, tranquilizers for muscle spasms and injections to regulate blood pressure, pain and anxiety.

Scorpion Stings and Bites | Terminix

Today, an estimated 1,500 species of scorpions call the planet home. However, here in the United States, only approximately 90 species of scorpions can be found. No one wants to be stung by one of these fearsome-looking creatures. Even in mild doses, the neurotoxins contained in scorpion venom can attack the central nervous system. How serious is a scorpion sting, and what should you do if you get stung?

Why do scorpions sting?

An effective way to help avoid being stung by a scorpion is to understand why they sting at all. Scorpions are hunters. They use their venom — contained in their characteristically hooked tail — to paralyze the small insect prey on which they feed and to protect themselves against predators. Once incapacitated, a scorpion can then grasp its prey with its other distinctive feature: its prominent claws.

Though rare, scorpions do sometimes sting humans. Of course, no matter how aggressive it is, scorpions probably don’t sting humans in hopes of enjoying a feast. Human stings are most often due to the scorpion feeling threatened. Their sting is their best defense against being attacked or getting crushed.

Symptoms of a scorpion sting

According to the Mayo Clinic, normal symptoms of a scorpion sting can include:

• Pain, which can be intense

• Numbness and tingling in the area around the sting

• Slight swelling in the area around the sting

The Mayo Clinic also says that signs and symptoms of more severe and widespread venom effects, which often occurs in children who are stung, includes:

• Difficulty breathing

• Muscle twitching or thrashing

• Unusual head, neck and eye movements

• Drooling

• Sweating

• Nausea and vomiting

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• Accelerated heart rate or irregular heart beat

• Restlessness or excitability or inconsolable crying (in children)

What should you do if you’ve been stung by a scorpion?

Though painful, most common scorpion stings don’t need medical treatment. However, if symptoms are severe (as described above), then the Mayo Clinic recommends seeing a doctor who can determine necessary treatment measures based on your signs and symptoms.

Ways to help keep scorpions out of your house

Scorpions sometimes make their way indoors, especially when their natural outdoor habitat is disturbed by seasonal changes or human development. You can help deter scorpions from finding refuge in your home by:

• Removing piles of lumber, firewood or rocks located next to your home (wear heavy gloves).

• Keeping your grass mowed and any overhanging bushes or tree limbs pruned.

• Properly sealing cracks and crevices that provide a small gap for scorpions to fit through

• Properly caulking the spaces where electrical, phone or water lines enter your home.

You can also check for the presence of these pests in your basement or in your house’s crawl space using a blacklight. Scorpions fluoresce under certain frequencies of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. With the right equipment, you can likely see them in the dark.

If you’re dealing with a scorpion infestation, or if you live in an area where scorpions are prevalent and want to take preventative measures to help keep them out of your home, call Terminix® today and let our pest control professionals help keep your home and family safe from these pests.

The Dangers of Scorpion Sting Allergy

Scorpions are found worldwide. While some assume them to be insects, they are actually arachnids closely related to spiders, mites, and ticks. Scorpions have the ability to kill their prey by injecting venom from a stinger located at the end of their tail. 

The common striped bark scorpion, Centruroides vittatus, is the type most frequently seen in the United States. It is responsible for thousands of stings every year, most of which are painful but relatively harmless. Few human deaths are known to have occurred recently in the U. S. as a result of a scorpion sting. 

  Michael Mike L. Baird flickr.bairdphotos.com/Getty Images

Symptoms

The venom of scorpion is responsible for mild neurotoxic symptoms, including numbness and tingling throughout the body. However, the range and severity of symptoms a person may experience may not be caused by the neurotoxin itself.

As with certain stinging insects, such as honeybees and yellow jackets, scorpion stings are known ​to cause an allergic reaction in susceptible people irrespective of the neurotoxic effects. In some cases, the allergy may result in a potentially life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. Symptoms may include:

• Hives
• Allergic rhinitis
• Asthma-like symptoms
• Facial swelling
• Nausea or vomiting
• Drooling
• Respiratory distress
• Increased or erratic heart rate
• A feeling of impending doom
• Coma
• Shock

Causes

Typically speaking, in order for an allergy to occur, a person must have been exposed to a substance (known as an allergen) which the body regards as abnormal.  After the initial exposure, allergic antibodies are produced. When that person is later re-exposed to the allergen, the antibodies trigger an allergic reaction.

This suggests that a person with a scorpion allergy must have been previously stung, right? Not always. In some cases, the immune system will recognize proteins in one allergen as belonging to another and respond in the same manner. This is referred to as “cross-reactivity.”

In the case of scorpions, the venom of the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) appears to be highly cross-reactive. This type of stinging ant is native to South America but has become a widespread health hazard in many parts of the southern U.S. 

Treatment

Acute allergic reactions from scorpion stings are treated in much the same way as any insect sting. For mild skin-only reactions, antihistamines may be used. In life-threatening systemic reactions, epinephrine is used.

Currently, there is no known cure for a scorpion allergy other than to avoid being stung. However, given the cross-reactivity between scorpion and fire ant venom, some have theorized that allergy shots using fire ant extract may prevent both allergies. This may be an appropriate option for persons at risk of anaphylaxis in areas where fire ants and/or scorpions are endemic.

How to treat scorpion stings – Scout Life magazine

Scorpions, part of the arachnid class, can look like something out of a horror movie.  Like spiders, they have eight legs, thin pinchers (called pedipalps), and a venomous stinger on their tail.  The average size of a scorpion is about 6 cm, but the largest known scorpion grows up to 21 cm! There are hundreds of types of scorpions.  Thankfully, most of them are harmless, but a small handful – yikes! – of them can be dangerous and even potentially lethal to humans. Scorpions are found on all continents besides Antarctica, though in some places such as New Zealand and Great Britain they are not naturally occurring.  Scorpions may be found in, basically, every ecosystem, as they are incredible adapters and are able to survive on even just one insect a year by altering their metabolism!

Let’s shed some more light on scorpions:  Did you know that they glow when placed under ultraviolet light?  No one is quite sure why this occurs; it may be a warning signal to possible predators or even a way to lure their prey.  Either way, it is definitely pretty creepy.

For the most part, the scorpion’s venom is adapted to their lifestyle, and since their diet mostly consists of insects, their venom is typically relatively harmless to humans.  Only about 25 species of scorpions are known to be lethal to humans; the majority of these are part of the Buthidae family.  The two most common lethal scorpions found in the United States are the Arizona Bark Scorpion and the Striped Bark Scorpion.  The Arizona Bark Scorpion is mainly found in the Southwest United States; fatalities from the sting of this scorpion are rare and the greatest risk is for the elderly and young children. The Striped Bark Scorpion is found more in the Central South and the Midwest of the United States; death is also fairly rare with the Striped Bark Scorpion, but the sting can be extremely painful.

So what happens if a human gets stung by a scorpion?  Some common symptoms of a scorpion sting are a tingling or burning at the sting site, numbness, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, blurry vision, or seizures.   In some rare cases, pancreatitis – a painful inflammation of the pancreas – may occur.  Some symptoms of pancreatitis are abdominal pain, chills, fever, sweating, and nausea.  Onset of symptoms is usually quite rapid and can last for between 24 to 48 hours.

If stung by a scorpion, the first thing to do is to make sure you get yourself out of harm’s way and avoid another sting.  If possible, try to remember what color the scorpion is or snap a photo with your smartphone; do NOT try to catch the scorpion because you might end up getting stung a second time!

Once out of harm’s way, call 911 and then wash the sting site with soap and water, apply a cold compress for “10 minutes on, then 10 minutes off.”  Importantly, avoid aspirin or ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) because these can cause the venom to spread through the body more quickly.  Acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) can be taken to help relieve the pain at the site of the sting.  Sometimes even more powerful pain medications, like opiates, are required to help alleviate pain. Taking an oral antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (such as Benadryl) can help reduce some of the swelling and itching, as well.  Immobilize the area so as to protect the wound and to help delay spreading the venom through the blood more quickly.  Do not attempt suction, and do not cut into the wound; these are just great ways to ensure an infection!

In general, it is a good idea to go and get checked out at the nearest hospital or health clinic if stung by a scorpion – especially if the species of scorpion is unknown.

Check This Out!

Symptoms Of An Arizona Bark Scorpion Sting

9/22/2020

Arizona Bark Scorpions are considered the most venomous species of scorpion in the United States, and not surprisingly these scorpions are found here in Arizona, in-home across areas like Phoenix, Surprise, Mesa, and more. Most scorpion stings provide similar pain to that of a bee sting: painful, but only severe and problematic to those with a significant allergy.

But the Arizona Back Scorpion is different. These scorpions have venom that is harmful to humans, and although it is very rare to die from a scorpion sting, the resulting pain and discomfort can be significant.

What Happens After An Arizona Bark Scorpion Sting?

If you or someone you love has been stung by a scorpion, don’t panic – there are many scorpions that look like Arizona Bark Scorpions but have much less venom, and the amount of venom you receive can differ between stings. Even after an Arizona Bark Scorpion Sting, some people experience almost no symptoms at all.

But if you are stung by this type of scorpion, the symptoms can be very distressing. Common symptoms include:

• Severe pain at and near the site of the sting.
• Numbness or tingling in the affected area.
• Muscle immobility, twitching, or convulsions.
• Difficulty breathing/rapid breathing.
• Vomiting and nausea.

The pain can be severe, even without too much envenomation, but it should be limited to the targeted area. However, some individuals experience worse symptoms, especially children, seniors, and those that are immunocompromised. In those individuals, you may see symptoms that include:

• Paralysis
• Foaming at the Mouth
• Seizure-Like Symptoms

As mentioned, deaths attributed to the bark scorpion are rare. It is estimated that only 2 individuals have died as a result of these stings. But the other symptoms are a common problem, with thousands of very painful scorpion stings reported each and every year.

Protect Yourself From Arizona Bark Scorpions

Scorpion stings are very painful. But they are also preventable. At Green Home Pest Control, we have a variety of highly effective solutions that can help you protect your home from scorpions and eliminate any that are on your property. For more information about our scorpion control services in Arizona, please call us today at (480) 525-7378.

Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control services.

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90,000 A resident of Kazan was bitten by a scorpion hiding in the purchased grapes

Inna Tsyfarkina, a resident of Kazan, was bitten by a scorpion hiding in the purchased grapes. The berries were acquired by the child’s father, whom the woman helps to rehabilitate at the Poisk Diagnostic and Consulting Center. The victim wanted to wash the grapes for the children, but did not have time – the scorpion bit her on the finger. Tsyfarkin was hospitalized – nothing threatens her life. About what other living creatures are found in products around the world – in the material “Newspapers. Ru “.

In Kazan, 32-year-old Inna Tsyfarkina was bitten by a scorpion caught in a purchased grape. The woman reported this on the VKontakte social network.

As the victim told the TV channel “360”, the berries were bought by the father of the child, whom Tsyfarkina is helping to rehabilitate in the Center for Diagnostics and Consulting “Poisk”. In the supermarket, the man did not notice the poisonous animal, as it was sitting “quietly and without movement.”

The woman planned to wash the grapes and treat them to children undergoing rehabilitation at the Center.

“If it was not me, but a child who tried it, it would be much worse,” she said. “It just merged with color,” added the victim.

When the scorpion pounced on Tsyfarkina, she managed to quickly withdraw her hand, but the poison still managed to penetrate the skin, because of this, the woman’s finger on her right hand became numb, and then the whole hand. According to the victim, the sensation of a scorpion bite is similar to that of a wasp.

While Inna Tsyfarkina was in the hospital, the boy’s father took the scorpion to the store.The employees confiscated the grapes and returned the money for the purchase. In the meantime, the woman urged to be careful with purchases, since it is not known whether this “grape guest” was alone.

She also published a photo of her discharge from the hospital, which indicated the diagnosis – “scorpion bite”. The woman noted that the doctors were also surprised by what happened. “As several doctors told me yesterday:“ If they didn’t see it, they wouldn’t believe it themselves, ”she said.

The press service of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Tatarstan said that the woman was taken to the toxicology department of the Kazan hospital in a state of moderate severity.Doctors helped her on time, now nothing threatens Tsyfarkina’s life.

This is by no means the only case when, along with the products, customers acquired an unpleasant live “surprise”. So, on March 4, 2020, a resident of New South Wales, Marissa Davidson, bought a bag of potatoes in a supermarket with a snake hiding inside, the portal Upi. com reported.

A woman was sorting out purchases in the kitchen when a reptile suddenly slipped out of the bag and crawled towards her five-year-old son.Marissa grabbed the basket and covered the reptile with it, and then killed it. Experts later said that it turned out to be a venomous swamp snake. The Davidson supermarket was assured that the incident was being investigated and a public apology was made.

A few years ago, on August 24, 2016, a boa constrictor was found among bananas in a Swedish supermarket. One of the store workers noticed a reptile and screamed – only after that her colleague also saw a snake in a box with bananas. This was reported by The Local.

“At first I couldn’t believe my eyes,” said a supermarket employee. – It was brown, 45-50 centimeters long. I was a little shocked. ”

The snake did not move – the women thought it was dormant. With the help of a broom, they moved the boa constrictor to another box. He was left in a cold storage room outside, hoping that the low temperature would not allow the snake to wake up.

By the evening, when the veterinarian called by the store employees arrived, it became clear that the boa constrictor was dead.“I just wanted to get rid of him,” said an employee at The Local. “I have two children and a boyfriend, and he is very afraid of snakes!” According to the woman, she herself is not afraid of reptiles: “It would be much worse if it was a spider.”

A reporter for the regional newspaper Nya Wermlands-Tidningen asked a woman how she now feels about unloading bananas. “Well, now I’m putting on thick seals,” the Swede replied.

“RG” made a rating of the most dangerous insects of the Kuban – Rossiyskaya Gazeta

In the Kuban, almost 300 people have turned to doctors with complaints of tick bites in the last few days alone.More than a hundred of them are children. And then the region was attacked by mosquitoes, which can also carry dangerous diseases.

“RG” decided to make a kind of rating of the most dangerous poisonous arthropods and asked for help from Andrey Chushkin, a biologist, senior researcher at the field research laboratory of the Krasnodar State Historical and Archaeological Museum-Reserve named after Felitsyn.

… As one of the legends says, in Ancient Babylon for his beloved wife Semiramis, the king erected the famous “Hanging Gardens”.But so that an uninvited guest would not wander into this one of the seven wonders of the world, it was ordered to guard the entrance to the terrible monster – Scorpio. But about the scorpions that are found in the southern region, our interlocutor will tell a little later. And he suggests starting with the most poisonous representative of arthropods.

In the first place of the “hit parade” – karakurt from the clan of black widows. True, only females pose a mortal threat. Their bite is felt weakly, and in a dream it is completely invisible. Symptoms are a sharp muscle tension, an increase in heart rate, a state of delirium, when a person can be overcome by a panic fear of death.If you do not take action, a sad outcome is possible. You can avoid the consequences on your own no later than a few minutes after the bite – burn the wounds with the head of a flammable match.

– Previously, it was believed that karakurt does not wander into the Kuban, but with the onset of global warming, it is no longer possible to talk about it, – Chushkin believes. “Besides, Kalmykia is not far away, where such spiders are a common species. Now it is also found in the Crimea. And some individuals were found even in the suburbs.

It turns out that in the Kuban there is a spider very similar to the karakurt – the steatode of the spaukolean.It is impossible to say that it is absolutely safe. “All spiders should be treated with extreme caution, especially children and the elderly with thin skin,” the biologist continues. “Each of them is poisonous to varying degrees.”

In second place in the ranking is the South Russian tarantula, rather large, up to 3.5 centimeters in size, densely covered with hairs. Lives in deep vertical burrows lined with cobwebs. Its poison causes pain that does not subside for several days. The victims complain of a general heaviness of the body, apathy and drowsiness.

A scorpion closes the first three. In the region, two species of these arachnids (Italian and Mingrelian) live in the Sochi area, their sizes are small – up to five centimeters. Another species is found in Crimea, there is also unverified information about encounters with scorpions on Taman.

The bite of Kuban scorpions, as a rule, does not pose a serious danger (like a wasp stings). However, it is not always possible to predict how the human body will behave when exposed to this toxin. After all, scorpion venom can cause symptoms similar to epilepsy and pancreatitis.

These arachnids are predominantly nocturnal. This mode is associated with the unusual structure of the respiratory apparatus, which is equipped with tiny villi. If they are not moistened, then the creature dies.

“This feature has become the reason for a beautiful legend,” continues Andrey. – Supposedly, if a scorpion is surrounded by burning coals, he kills himself out of despair with his own sting.

The hymenoptera are next – wasps, bees, bumblebees.

A wasp sting is more painful, but bees, as a rule, attack with a whole swarm.A massive sting is sometimes fatal. Bee venom is also terrible because it causes (about two percent of people) allergies. A fatal outcome can also occur when stinging in the larynx region.

In carnivorous wasps, the sting, in contrast to the bee’s, has no barbs, and it is reusable. Bumblebees are more peaceful, their single bites are less painful. It is much worse if a large hornet is interested in you.

– But the gadflies are being fooled, – the interlocutor notes.- They do not have a mouth apparatus at all: they cannot bite. Only the larva feeds, and the adult lays eggs, including under the skin of animals. In theory, gadflies can do this with humans, but such cases are common mainly in tropical countries.

In the Kuban, the first case of a human bite was recorded by a poisonous spider of the yellow sak species, which had not been met here before

Let’s go further. In terms of toxicity, some beetles can be compared with wasps. True, they do not sting anyone, they have toxic “bug blood” (lymph).The ladybug, the Colorado potato beetle, and the turtle bug have such an effect as “blood spraying”.

But the bladder is dangerous. It is a beetle with an elongated body, elytra are red with black spots. It leaves bites on the human body that develop into blisters and abscesses. Once inside, the blister poison (cantharidin) can lead to death. In the old days, kings were poisoned with a similar toxin, who died in terrible agony (the insides of a person were eaten away in the same way as under the action of acid).Doctors from these beetles prepared abscess plasters.

Spanish flies are similar in poisonousness (they are only called flies, but in fact they are beetles, resembling bladders in shape, but the color is green metallic). Magicians and sorcerers made from them elixirs that arouse erotic dreams.

And the last in our rating is the caterpillar of the motley moth, in whose lymph cyanide is found. All caterpillars have every hair on their soft body filled with poison. It breaks down easily and, when it gets on the skin (eyes, respiratory tract), causes dermatitis and conjunctivitis.

– Poisons in insects and spiders are very complex in composition, the effect on humans of many of them has not been sufficiently studied, – says Andrey Chushkin at the end of the conversation. – To avoid trouble, elementary vigilance and caution are enough. Often, our curiosity, desire to touch, take a closer look at a bright spider or caterpillar lead to trouble. The beauty of nature requires keeping distance.

How the Cossacks fought insects

Were you afraid of the “inhabitants of dense grasses” in ancient times in the Kuban? And what methods were used against them? Igor Vasiliev, Candidate of Historical Sciences, member of the Union of Russian Writers, told the “RG” correspondent about this.

– If a Kuban citizen got harmful insects in his hut, he would catch a few in a box, take them to the crossroads and leave them there, – says the scientist. – At the same time, the villager could demand from the “uninvited guests” to leave his home.

In the village of Saratov, near Goryachiy Klyuch, after the return of their church for Easter, the owners happened to perform such a rite of expelling the “six-legged”. One sat by the window, and the second walked around the hut. The following dialogue took place between them:

– Khrystos is resurrected!

– Truly resurrected!

– Chim budete to swing?

– Pascams!

– And you, what is behind the wall?

– By yourself!

Even before the revolution, local historian Lev Rosenberg described such a ritual in the village of Rodnikovskaya.The woman got up at midnight, undressed, lighted the stove and warmed up the poker. She put on a shirt, let her hair down, sat on a poker and went around the hut three times, reading the ritual text. After the third time, she drove into the canopy backwards, put the poker “hook up”, and herself crawled backwards on all fours into the hut. After that, she buried the jug with disgusting insects at the threshold and spit it out three times … Most likely, this ritual was not widespread, but was available only to those in the know – witches and “sorcerers”.

The Cossacks even had a belief that, they say, it was not necessary to hinder the flight of swarms of locusts, since the pattern on its wings is inscribed letters in which God commanded where the insect should fly …

Krasnodar was bitten by a poisonous spider

Three years ago, in the Kuban, the first case of a human bite was recorded by a poisonous spider of the yellow sak species. The incident occurred when the Krasnodar resident went out into the courtyard of his house. On his clothes, he found a small spider, just over a centimeter in size.Trying to drive him away, the man suffered from a bite. Because of the acute pain throughout my body, I had to call an ambulance. For a long time, doctors could not provide him with qualified assistance. I had to go around several hospitals in the regional center before a specialist was found who helped. According to biologists, the yellow sak used to live mainly in Austria and Germany, and had never met in the Kuban before.

By the way

The most poisonous arthropods found in the Kuban

1.Karakurt.

2. South Russian tarantula.

3. Scorpio.

4. Hornet.

5. Scolia (giant wasp).

6. Wasp.

7. Bee.

8. Naryvnik.

9. Shpansky front sight.

10. Caterpillar of a motley butterfly.

Help “RG”

According to the Department of Environmental Education of the Ministry of Natural Resources of the region, 202 species of insects are included in the Red Book of the Krasnodar Territory.The largest number of their species lives in the areas of the Black Sea coast, the Caucasian State Natural Biosphere Reserve and the Sochi National Park.

There are 25 “critically endangered” insects and 26 “endangered” species. Several species of butterflies that have disappeared from the territory of the region (the order ribbon is bright yellow, the order ribbon is interrupted, the hood of the spectabilizoides, the scoop pupil and the bear Karelin) and one relative of the grasshoppers – the steppe tolstun (multi-tubercular shaglava).

Centipedes and arachnids

Centipedes and arachnids

The fauna of millipedes Karadag remains poorly studied to this day. The vast majority of the species inhabiting the Crimea are small in size and, due to their secretive lifestyle, are hardly noticeable. They live in humid places: in the soil, under stones, under bark and in rotting tree trunks. Only a few large representatives of this class of invertebrates are able to attract the attention of a tourist.In human dwellings, you can often find a rather large – the size of a matchbox – a centipede with a fringe of long and thin legs. Its elongated delicate body is, as it were, suspended on curved support legs. We are talking about common flycatcher , or scooter – certainly one of the most charming representatives of the vast subclass of Lipopods centipedes. Flycatchers are attracted to the houses by the abundance of insects. This peculiar animal leads the life of a predator-ambush, rarely actively searches for prey.Scootigers, destroying a large number of flies, mosquitoes and other insects, whose neighborhood is not always pleasant, are useful guests in dwellings. For people, this cute animal is not dangerous at all.

Common flycatcher with prey. Photo by V.S. Marchenko

Under the stones lying on the wet soil, you can find whitish or ivory-colored very long and thin centipedes. Wriggling like snakes, they will immediately try to hide from the light and go into the soil.These are geophiles – eaters of earthworms. Their frequent neighbors are medium-sized (several centimeters in length) brown drupes . ringed scolopendra looks like harmless drupes, differing from them in impressive size. There are specimens over 20 cm long! Scolopendra is poisonous, numerous and almost ubiquitous. It is active mainly at night, but in cloudy weather it appears on the surface during the day. Scolopendra climb well, climbing rocks and into tree crowns, penetrating through windows into houses.Thus, it poses a serious danger to the careless tourist sleeping in the open air. Cases of human bites with scolopendra in Crimea are not at all uncommon. The venom is injected with powerful claw-like jaws. It is impossible to die from the bite of this centipede, but it will cause a lot of trouble. A burning pain is felt at the injection site, redness and swelling occur, in severe cases the temperature rises. It is interesting that this unsympathetic animal, the sudden appearance of which causes a feeling of chills even in a familiar person, is capable of touching care for the offspring: scolopendras carefully incubate and protect from the encroachments of predators of egg laying until the appearance of young animals. Scolopendra feed mainly on insects, but they are able to cope with both bold lizards and newborn snakes.

Scolopendra is a dangerous centipede. Photo N.M. Cowblyuka

Scolopendra is the only large centipede of Karadag. Numerous on the southern coast of Crimea, a large (pencil-thick) two-legged centipede – odorous kivsyak – is no longer found near the eastern limit of the Mountainous Crimea, and the most eastern point of its range is Cape Alchak, which closes the Sudak Bay from the west.These kivsyaks were repeatedly brought to Karadag for experimental purposes, but for some reason they do not take root here.

Arachnids , or arachnids – a very numerous class of invertebrates. On Karadag, this ancient group is represented by several detachments. The detachments of scorpions and solpugs (the latter are also called camel spiders) in the Crimea are represented by a single species each. The peculiar appearance and unusual behavior of these animals have attracted human attention since ancient times.They are mentioned in the “Book of the Dead”, in Sumerian and ancient Greek myths and chronicles. In Egypt, scorpions were depicted on tombs and monuments. Aristotle wrote that in some countries scorpion bites are harmless, in others they bring inevitable death. In this sense, Crimea is a calm region. In the piles of stones and under the plaster on old buildings, you will occasionally come across a small Crimean scorpion . Its total length with the “tail” does not exceed 4.5 cm, and the poisonous spike of its telson (the so-called bulbous segment at the end of the abdomen, where the poisonous glands are located) is not able to pierce the rough skin of the sole of the human foot.

The cuticle of the Crimean scorpion fluoresces in ultraviolet light. Photo by A. A. Nadolny and O. V. Kukushkina

In the Karadag reserve, the scorpion is known from single finds, but it is relatively common within the boundaries of nearby cities – Sudak and Feodosia. This attraction of the scorpion to the ancient port centers is quite understandable: quite recently it turned out that the scorpion was brought to Crimea from one of the islands in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, most likely, during the era of the ancient Greek colonization of Taurica.But in the Crimea, scientists found it much earlier than at home. That is why it is called – Crimean. The scorpion also arrived at Karadag as a “hare” – most likely from Sevastopol, along with laboratory glassware from the Institute of Biology of the South Seas (in the basement rooms of the first marine aquarium, organized by A.O. Kovalevsky, scorpions are found in abundance – under plaster on the walls). This timid animal is active at night and feeds on flies and other small invertebrates, which it finds in cracks in walls and cracks in rocks.An interesting feature of scorpion biology is the protection of offspring: before the first molt, the female carries her babies on her back. And at this time, do not approach her!

Another original inhabitant of Karadag is common solpuga , or phalanx , – is the largest arachnid of the Crimean fauna. Together with the limbs, it reaches the size of a tea saucer. Salpuga is not numerous, lives in rocky areas, and it is not easy to find it. But on warm summer evenings, they meet under the lanterns in the village of the reserve, where they hunt for small animals.Despite its solid size, eerie appearance (which is aggravated by exceptional hairiness) and the presence of huge chelate chelate mandibles, the solpuga is not capable of causing harm to humans. This is probably why the behavior of the solpuga is often defiantly aggressive. The disturbed animal sways on long legs, swoops down on the offender and, moving its mighty jaws, without exaggeration, emits a “gnashing of teeth.” Ignore these advances – there are no poison glands in the solpuga.However, it is not worth experimenting for the sake of trying to tease her. Phalanges, being very voracious, on occasion do not disdain carrion and, if bitten, can infect the wound.

During the day, furry solpugs can be found under large stones. Photo by L.V. Znamenskaya

Another arachnid would not deserve a mention in the guide if it had not been seen so often. We are talking about false scorpion book . This tiny animal, no more than 5 mm in size, looks really extremely similar to a real scorpion, only devoid of a “tail” with a poisonous sting.On Karadag , false scorpions are found not only in nature, but also between the yellowed pages of the folios of the TI Vyazemsky library. They feed on the smallest insects. Thus, they are a kind of little guardians of a unique collection of books. An interesting feature of false scorpions is their tendency to use large flies and beetles as a vehicle. Clinging with claws to the legs of their winged counterparts, they travel widely around the world.

The greatest diversity is observed in the order of spiders.There are almost 340 species of them in Karadag today. The insufficient knowledge of the fauna of the Karadag spiders is evidenced by the fact that species new to science are still being described from here. In 2009, a large (over 1 cm long) representative of the family wolf spiders was found in the Karadag reserve, which is so different from all its brethren that it even had to be isolated into an independent genus – delirium . This arthropod unknown to science lived in a gully trampled by generations of naturalists near the beginning of the ecological path and, in general, did not particularly hide from anyone…

Now let’s talk about the most prominent representatives of the many-sided order of spiders that inhabit Karadag. On the rocky slopes, in the pillows of thorny astragalus, one can see elongated spiderweb tubes extending into the depths of the bush – into an interweaving of thorny twigs. These are the snares of the rather large funnel-moth spider . If you look closely, in the depths of the funnel, the host’s light gray body is noticeable. In the piles of rocks by the sea and on the branches of trees, there are often huge, with a small walnut orb-weaving spiders , or crosses . Their nets have a “classic” wheel-like shape. While walking through the reserve, it is easy to see that they are so careless that they often braid the trails with their snares. On the steppe areas, large orb-web spiders are numerous: striped, like a wasp, Argiope Bryennikha , with a bullet-shaped abdomen, and silvery, with scalloped outgrowths on a flattened abdomen, Argiope lobular .

Argiope Bruennich is one of the most notable spiders of Karadag. Photo by L.V. Znamenskaya

In the grass layer, small crab spiders , or side walkers , with a short angular abdomen and disproportionately long forelimbs, are very common. Hidden in the center of a flower, they lie in wait for insects that come to feast on nectar. For camouflage purposes, some crab spiders change their color to match their surroundings. All the listed species of spiders have chosen the strategy of ambush predators. However, many of their other cousins ​​are skilled trackers who actively hunt for prey. Tarantulas and stray wolf spiders are relatively large in size, usually hunt on the ground and are excellent sprinters. Jumping spiders take with caution, sneaking up on prey and making a lightning-fast throw at the last moment from a distance that seems incredibly huge in comparison with the more than modest size of the most furry hunter. In summer, more often than other jumpers , a small (less than 1 cm) spider phyleus with a scarlet or blood-red abdomen catches the eye.He hunts in the very heat – on the rocks hot by the sun. Some horses are capable of “hunting cunning”: they do not approach the victim “head-on”, risking being discovered, but carefully bypass it and attack from behind. Some species are also capable of a more meaningful maneuver: upon seeing a prey, they can not only go around it from behind, but also choose a good ambush spot above, on a stone or twig, and then suddenly jump directly onto the prey.

Small spiders of other species sometimes become prey for jumpers. Photo by L.V. Znamenskaya

In houses on the ceilings, there are often long-legged anemic house spiders , which are often called haymakers , mistakenly giving them the name of a completely different animal. Sometimes a large awkward tegenaria home , the legs of which are dotted with long soft hairs, can visit a visit. They are useful neighbors that rid us of annoying insects.

A female wolf spider with offspring on her back appears to be dressed in a black fur coat. Photo by L.V. Znamenskaya

Several species of spiders living on the Karadag are dangerous to humans. All of them have powerful mandibles that easily pierce the skin. Among them are the large and mobile South Russian tarantula , the spider eresus , the females of which have a massive build and reach sizes of 2 – 3 cm, as well as the slender and nondescript-looking spider hirakant with huge chelicerae, often visiting houses . ..The bites of these spiders are painful, causing a strong local reaction and a feverish state lasting for several days. The bite of the spider atypus , a representative of an ancient and primitive family closely related to tropical bird-eating spiders, may turn into trouble. However, all of the listed species poisonous to humans are rare, and meeting them during a short excursion around Karadag is almost incredible.

A male fat-headed spider (eresus), in danger, demonstrates to the enemy a brightly colored abdomen with an ocellated pattern.Photo by O. V. Kukushkin

Atipus is a relative of tropical bird-eating spiders. Photo by A.A. Nadolny

The only deadly spider found on Karadag is karakurt thirteen-point from the snake family. He is sometimes called the “black widow” among the people. The fact is that after mating, hungry females often deal with their boyfriends. Karakurt is easily recognizable. The rounded ovate abdomen of adult females is monochromatic, glossy black.On its lower surface there may be a light pattern resembling an hourglass – if you think about it, very symbolic … In males and young spiders, white eyes with a red dot in the center are scattered on the black background of the abdomen. In the Karadag district, the karakurt lives permanently, but its number is much lower than in the Steppe Crimea, where the main foci of distribution of this species are located, and where it finds optimal conditions for its existence. In addition to Karadag, karakurt is found in Koktebel and near Sudak, on Cape Meganom.In some years with favorable weather for this spider, outbreaks of numbers are recorded. Young karakurt are able to migrate long distances, flying on cobweb threads. At Karadag, the air “landing” of the karakurt appears in April – May. Spiders “drop anchor” on dry slopes with steppe vegetation (wormwoods prefer) or in pistachio woodlands. There are especially many of them in areas trampled by cattle. In this case, young karakurtiks settle in cow tracks, which are natural traps for insects.There they construct the first loose mesh, in the center of which a cap is suspended from the debris and corpses of the sucked insects, which hides the owner. Eating intensively, the spiders grow rapidly and reach sexual maturity by July. In August, females lay eggs, packing them in cocoons (there are usually 4 – 5 of them), and die with the first frost. The life of a karakurt is fleeting. Babies survive the winter in cocoons and come out into the light of day in the spring, after which the cycle repeats. For humans, the greatest danger is represented by females, which can reach 2 cm, although relatively small males and even young spiders can also cause serious poisoning.The poison of karakurt has a neurotoxic effect, affecting the nervous system. At the time of the bite, a burning pain is felt, which soon spreads throughout the body, due to the convulsive contraction of the muscles of the chest, suffocation occurs, the abdominal muscles are tense, as in peritonitis, there is strong mental agitation and an overwhelming fear of death. In case of moderate poisoning, the disease lasts for several weeks, in severe cases, death occurs within the first two days due to paralysis of the respiratory center in the medulla oblongata.There is a cruel, but simple (which is valuable in the field) and quite effective way to mitigate the effects of poisoning. It was recommended back in the 1940s after being tested on himself by the famous zoologist Professor P.I. Marikovsky, who studied poisonous animals of Central Asia, Iran and the Caucasus. Two or three matches are put on the bite site with heads and then set on fire. Spider venom is of a protein nature, is injected shallowly (by half a millimeter) and, therefore, can be thermally decomposed when cauterized ¹ .However, this measure is effective only in the first 2 to 3 minutes after the bite. Later, this first aid will lose its relevance, since most of the poison will have time to be absorbed into the bloodstream. It is difficult to understand why this small spider, feeding on beetles and locusts, needs a poison of such monstrous power. According to one version, this powerful weapon allows the karakurt to capture the burrows of rodents. A person gets into trouble mainly because of carelessness. People walk barefoot across the steppe and, it happens, step on a karakurt. At the same time, the very moment of the bite may go unnoticed.There are so many thorns in the steppe …

Lair of a female karakurt on the Karagach ridge in the Karadag reserve. Spider cocoons and the remains of the predator’s prey the size of a stag beetle are visible. Photo by O. V. Kukushkin

¹ We especially emphasize: when a poisonous snake bites, moxibustion is completely useless and even harmful!

Source : Kukushkin O.V., Kovblyuk N.M. Centipedes and arachnids // Reserve Karadag: popular science essays / Ed.A.L. Morozova. – Simferopol: N. Oranda, 2011 .– S. 105-111.

90,000 Dangerous Crimea centipedes.

Dangerous Crimea centipedes.

The vast majority of centipede species living in the Crimea are small in size and, due to their secretive lifestyle, are hardly noticeable. They live in humid places: in the soil, under stones, under bark and in rotting tree trunks. Only a few large representatives of this class of invertebrates are able to attract your attention.

Common flycatcher

In human homes, you can often find the common flycatcher (scutiger) – a centipede with a fringe of long and thin legs of a rather large size – with a matchbox. Its elongated delicate body is, as it were, suspended on curved support legs. Flycatchers are attracted to the houses by the abundance of insects. This peculiar animal leads the life of a predator-ambush, rarely actively searches for prey. Scootigers, destroying a large number of flies, mosquitoes and other insects, whose neighborhood is not always pleasant, are useful guests in dwellings. This cute creature is not dangerous for people at all.

One of the most dangerous representatives of the Crimean fauna is the Crimean skolopendra. Scolopendra annelid is a carapace centipede, outwardly similar to a long worm, chained in a chitinous carapace. Scolopendra ranges in color from olive to dark brown. The length reaches from 5 to 20 centimeters. Scolopendra limbs are bright orange. Ringed scolopendra inhabits almost the entire territory of Crimea, prefers dark and humid places, often hides in gorges, under stones, under deciduous cover, under bark and tree trunks.Hiding from the daytime sun, a centipede can crawl into a tourist tent, abandoned backpacks, shoes and things of tourists. In the daytime, this centipede practically does not appear. True, it can be accidentally disturbed. This is dangerous because, in defense, the centipede can bite or release mucus, which causes skin irritation in most people. Scolopendra themselves do not attack humans. But at night, the centipede goes hunting. They are excellent hunters capable of eating anything that does not exceed its size, from insects and slugs to small lizards.The scolopendra first grabs the doomed victim with its limbs, after which it bites into it. Scolopendra are especially poisonous during reproduction in the spring, but at other times of the year the bites of these centipedes will not bring anything good, their bites are painful and cause general malaise, and the mucus secreted by them causes burning, itching on the skin and irritation. At the site of the scolopendra bite, a person develops a tumor, the temperature rises sharply to 38-39 degrees, chills and aches appear in the body. Symptoms usually last 24 to 48 hours, after which the temperature subsides and the swelling decreases rapidly.People suffering from allergic diseases and children are worst tolerated by scolopendra bites. Currently, there are no effective measures for a scolopendra bite or poison burn. You can wipe the bite site with an alcohol solution and apply a bandage. After that, you should urgently consult a doctor.

If you suddenly noticed a scolopendra on yourself, do not panic to make sudden movements, and even more so try to harm her.

Remember! scolopendra is not an insect, fumigators and other means of protection against insects do not work on it!

How to protect yourself from the Crimean scolopendra:

-Carefully check clothes and footwear when spending the night outdoors before putting them on;

-before going to bed, inspect the tent and sleeping bag;

– do not spend the night without a tent and do not leave it open;

– in the morning, collecting the tent and things, be careful, in search of the shade of the centipede,

, which is not afraid of people, can hide under a tent.

Crimean scorpion

Scorpions are among the most dangerous arthropods for humans. The Crimean scorpion can be found along the entire southern coast: in Sevastopol, Simferopol, Evpatoria, Feodosia and Kerch. This attraction of the scorpion to the ancient port centers is quite understandable: quite recently it turned out that the scorpion was brought to Crimea from one of the islands in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, back in the era of the ancient Greek colonization of Taurica.The Crimean scorpion is an endemic species, that is, its habitat includes only Crimea. Due to the fact that people, in the course of their life, invade the habitual habitat of an arthropod, he has to settle in the neighborhood. Therefore, dangerous creatures can often be found in residential buildings: in basements, bathrooms, cellars, garages. Its total length with the “tail” does not exceed 4.5 cm, and the poisonous spike at the tip of the tail is not able to pierce the rough skin of the sole of the human foot.The color is brown-yellow, black specimens are less common.

Scorpio prefers to lead a nocturnal lifestyle, goes hunting in the dark, during the day it sits in secluded corners: under stones or in the cracks of old buildings. These creatures prefer to feed on spiders, insects, millipedes, grasshoppers and praying mantises. Such arthropods first gnaw the head of their victim, then inject the enzyme, and then suck out the insides. The chitinous membrane is not used in food. Interesting! Crimean scorpions belong to the number of viviparous, one female gives birth to 10-12 nymphs, which are located on the mother’s back with the help of special suction cups. After two weeks, the babies gradually leave their mother and begin an independent life.

Now the Crimean scorpion is considered a rare arthropod. Among the reasons for the decline in the population is, first of all, the destruction of the habitat of arthropods by humans. People are taking over large areas from nature, and also demolishing old buildings, so the animals have nowhere to live.

Are Crimean Scorpions Dangerous? The answer is yes.

Their bite causes discomfort, poisoning of the body, may lead to an allergic reaction, but it is not fatal.

Signs of unpleasant contact with this arthropod are:

– severe pain,

– swelling of the bite site, itching,

– weakness and dizziness,

– nausea and vomiting,

– slowing down the pulse.

Having received a scorpion bite, do not panic, you need to treat the wound with vinegar and take an antiallergic drug.

Important! it begins to sting this arthropod only for self-defense, more often it prefers to get away from danger than to show aggression.

Deadly Scorpion Bite | Diary of a cheerful tourist

If you like to relax in Crimea, often visit the Caucasus and Central Asia, do not mind to arrange a tourist trip to the Middle East, North Africa, Southern Europe, then you may well catch the eye of a scorpion living in these places …

Scorpio is a rather aggressive and poisonous insect

Scorpio is a rather aggressive and poisonous insect

Do not pull the scorpion by the tail

Scorpio is a rather aggressive and poisonous insect. Its bite can lead to paralysis and death. For an insect, it is large enough: its size can reach 18 cm. With its “appearance” it is very similar to a crayfish. A distinctive feature of the scorpion is a raised, thickened tail with a sharp poisonous sting.

Stumbling on a scorpion on purpose is pretty tricky. The insect lives in small gorges, depressions under stones, shallow holes in the sand. Creeps out, mainly at night and can attack a person in self-defense.

A distinctive feature of a scorpion is a raised, thickened tail with a sharp poisonous sting

A distinctive feature of a scorpion is a raised, thickened tail with a sharp poisonous sting

Therefore, in order to avoid an unpleasant meeting with a scorpion, it is worth taking some precautions.Do you want to spend the night in nature? To set up a tent, choose flat areas of soil, having previously removed branches, leaves, stones from the place of the future overnight stay. The entrance to the tent should be tightly closed, and in the morning – check clothes, shoes and sleeping bags for the presence of uninvited insect guests.

You should not wander barefoot on rocky slopes and sandy soils (especially at night). We saw a scorpion – do not try to tease and touch him by the tail. The answer will be swift and painful.

Pus flows from under the eyelids

The scorpion bite resembles a prick made by a bad needle: pulling and painful.At the site of the lesion, redness is observed and a burning pain is felt. The more poisonous the scorpion is, the stronger the burning sensation will be. It feels like you got a severe burn.

Profuse salivation, swelling of the tongue, purulent discharge from the eyes – all these are signs of severe intoxication of the body

Further, the symptomatology develops progressively, and the person’s condition is rapidly deteriorating. Puffiness develops at the site of the bite, unbearable itching and a feeling of numbness appear.A little later, at the site of the penetration of the poison, bubbles filled with liquid swell.

The insect lives in small gorges, depressions under stones, shallow burrows in the sand

The insect lives in small gorges, depressions under stones, shallow burrows in the sand

The general condition of the organism also deteriorates. You start to feel nauseous, periodically vomit, and your throat hurts. Dizziness appears, the head hurts, the lymph nodes become inflamed. Profuse salivation, tachycardia, loss of consciousness, swelling of the tongue, purulent discharge from the eyes – all these are signs of severe intoxication of the body.If you do not provide first aid, then a scorpion bite can be fatal and fatal.

Do not let poison poison the body

When a scorpion bites, as in many other similar cases, it is important to provide first aid on time. To begin with, slow down the spread of the poison throughout the body.

Provide the victim with a horizontal position. The limb that has been bitten must be completely motionless. Try to squeeze or suck out the venom – this should help the first 10 minutes after the bite.True, your oral cavity should not be damaged. The liquid being sucked out should be spit out from time to time. After sucking out the poison, be sure to rinse your mouth with running water.

A scorpion sting resembles a prick made with a blunt needle

A scorpion sting resembles a stab made with a blunt needle

Treat the bite site with an alcohol solution and apply an antiseptic bandage. This will help protect the body from possible infection, which may well be on the sting of an insect.Apply cold if possible to relieve puffiness. This should slow down the spread of the poison through the blood vessels.

To stumble upon a scorpion on purpose is rather tricky: it is nocturnal

To stumble upon a scorpion on purpose is rather tricky: it is nocturnal

Also, it is worth injecting adrenaline or novocaine directly into the site of the bite – this way you can block absorption for a while a poisonous substance that contains scorpion venom. If you have an anti-allergic medicine with you, you should give it to the victim.Of course, you need to bring the victim to a hospital as soon as possible to provide qualified medical care. Take care of yourself and be healthy!

Read what to do, if you were stung by a snake , and how to escape from a bear.

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photo, poisonous or not, dangerous, description

Many potential guests of Crimea have time to hear enough horror films about the “southern lands”, where all sorts of dangerous monsters are found.When they find out that scorpions live here, they become completely creepy. Consequently, holidaymakers often seek to immediately find out whether the Crimean scorpion is poisonous or not, hesitating to book tours without this information.

CONTENTS

Crimean scorpion – local

But biologists treat this animal with sympathy. The Crimean scorpion (Euscorpius tauricus) is endemic to the peninsula. This concept means that he is found only here and is isolated from his relatives in biological systematics.It belongs to the order of arachnids, but is not a spider, since it acts as a separate subspecies in this series.

Crimean scorpions are small – about 4 cm in total length. They are yellowish brown above (the front and claws are darker) and whitish yellow below. Their photos do not give an accurate representation of them – in the images they seem larger and scarier than they actually are. The Crimean scorpion feeds on insects. The female gives birth to cubs alive (she does not lay eggs) and for a week the babies show themselves as backbones in the literal sense – they ride on their mother’s back until the first molt.

Today, scientists rank these scorpions among the so-called synanthropic species, that is, those that constantly live in close proximity to humans. They hide in the walls of buildings (especially abandoned and destroyed ones), in fences, among debris. People are not happy with this neighborhood. But the arthropod is also one harm from it – it is killed out of fear, it loses its habitat as the buildings are reconstructed and the ruins are demolished. Now the variety is listed in the Red Book.

At the same time, you can meet a scorpion in many regions of the Crimea.Its usual habitats are near the coast, it inhabits the entire South Coast of the Crimea, it is found in Sevastopol, in the Feodosia region and on the Kerch Peninsula.

Where are they found? Risk groups

It is unlikely to meet a scorpion on the beach. Fans of mountain tourism, historians and archaeologists should be more afraid of unwanted contact (scorpions love ruins). Guests of the private sector who have chosen an old house for the sake of cheapness are at risk.

Walking through trash bins or abandoned buildings would never occur to a sane person.But the lecture will not hurt the children of “anti-scorpion”, especially the younger school age. Guys 7-12 years old tend to climb where it is not necessary and try to catch all the animals they meet.

Fortunately for tourists, scorpions are especially aggressive during the mating season, and it falls in April-May – the tourist season has not yet begun, although it has already begun, so extra vigilance will not hurt.

Is a Crimean scorpion bite dangerous?

It is incorrect to talk about a scorpion bite – these creatures do not bite, but sting.A sharp, slightly curved sting is located at the tip of their flexible “tail”.

The victims’ responses are unambiguous: the creature stings painfully. But how dangerous is it? The answer is not very good. Yes, it is poisonous, its sting will not improve health, but it does not threaten life. Serious consequences are possible for allergy sufferers, young children and those who are stung in the neck or head (this happens to campers). The rest are just facing a few unpleasant hours.

Possible manifestations of poisoning after stinging may be:

• severe itching and soreness in the affected area;
• dizziness, headache;
• general weakness;
• chills;
• shortness of breath;
• heartbeat disorders;
• nausea.

Sometimes it happens that these symptoms appear some time after an unsuccessful meeting with a scorpion (up to a day). Then it is not easy to determine their cause. But more often the signs appear quickly – literally in minutes.

Treatment methods

Those stung by scorpions should be taken to the doctor only in case of a sting in the head or the appearance of atypical reactions. The same applies to small (preschool) children, although there are almost a few such cases.

An adult man will do well on his own. It is harmful for him to move a lot – it is better to lie down and not move the damaged part of the body. Pain and itching can be relieved with water and vinegar or insect bite repellent (it will not go away completely, but it will feel better). Cold compresses are also good. A tourniquet cannot be applied, cauterize the wound or cut it and do not suck blood.

Do not use “general anesthesia” with strong drinks. But any antihistamine inside will not hurt, it is better to have it in any personal first-aid kit when going to the Crimea.Sometimes you may need symptomatic treatment, for example, a drug that normalizes the heart rate, or an antispasmodic to get rid of vomiting. But such medicines are usually found in all individual first aid kits.

Usually people are afraid of the painful sting and the bad reputation of scorpions in general. But Crimean centipedes and some spiders (the same black widow) are much more dangerous than this animal. So the most likely negative result is the delay of the tourist group for a day on the route.Everything else will pass in this time.

Snakes, insects, scorpions – people are more often afraid of them all at once out of ignorance and inability to distinguish one species from another. In fact, man is much more dangerous to these creatures than they are to him. And to ensure your own invulnerability, it is enough to learn a little about biology.

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