Are There Centipedes in Arizona?
Yes, centipedes are found throughout much of Arizona, including larger species capable of delivering a painful bite. The Arizona bark centipede, also called the giant desert centipede, is the most medically significant. Bites are uncommon and treatable. Learning where to find them and how to prevent encounters helps you stay safe.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 22, 2026.
Strigamia bothriopus · Judy Gallagher CC BY-SA
Common Desert Centipede · Public domain CC0
Common Desert Centipede · Evrytte Carlson CC BY
- 8
- species recorded
- 2,041
- GBIF records
- August, March, July
- peak months
Yes, centipedes are in Arizona. Next you'll want:
Verified species, source iNaturalist
7 types of centipedes recorded in Arizona
7 centipede species have a verified observation record in Arizona, each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
1 of the 7 shown is recorded as introduced to Arizona rather than native.
- No openly licensed photo yet1
- No openly licensed photo yet2
- No openly licensed photo yet3
Florida Blue Centipede
Scolopendra viridis
439 records - No openly licensed photo yet4
- No openly licensed photo yet5
- No openly licensed photo yet6
Big-leg Centipede
Theatops posticus
54 records - No openly licensed photo yet7
Plus 6 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
3,413 verified observations on iNaturalist of centipede have been recorded in Arizona, most often in August, March, July.
When centipede are recorded in Arizona
Yes, centipedes are found throughout much of Arizona, including larger species capable of delivering a painful bite. The Arizona bark centipede, also called the giant desert centipede, is the most medically significant. Bites are uncommon and treatable. Learning where to find them and how to prevent encounters helps you stay safe.
Are they in Arizona?
Centipedes are well established throughout Arizona, particularly in the southern and central parts of the state. The most notable is the Arizona bark centipede, scientifically known as Scolopendra heros, which is one of the largest and most significant centipede species in North America. This species is found in desert, semi-arid, and subtropical regions across Arizona, thriving in the Sonoran Desert, Chihuahuan Desert, and surrounding foothills. The Arizona bark centipede inhabits areas near the Colorado River valley, the Gila River region, Phoenix, Tucson, and surrounding areas. Smaller, less notable centipede species are found statewide in appropriate habitats. The Arizona bark centipede is established year-round in the state and is often encountered by residents in gardens, under rocks, in woodpiles, and occasionally in homes. While the species does range into parts of southern New Mexico and Texas, Arizona is a stronghold for this centipede. Learning aboutour wildlife guidesfor Arizona helps you understand the dangerous creatures sharing your environment.
How dangerous is it?
The Arizona bark centipede delivers one of the most painful bites of any North American invertebrate, though it is rarely serious in healthy adults. A bite produces immediate, intense pain at the puncture site, similar to or worse than a wasp sting, often radiating through the affected limb. Pain typically peaks within 30 minutes and subsides over 12 to 24 hours. Swelling, redness, and bruising are common. Most people recover completely without serious complications. Severe reactions are rare but possible, especially in very young children, elderly persons, or those with compromised immune systems. Systemic symptoms such as lymph node swelling or low-grade fever occasionally occur. No deaths from Arizona bark centipede bites have been documented in healthy adults, and anti-venom is not available since the bite is painful but not life-threatening. However, the intensity of the pain warrants immediate medical attention. Bites should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out complications and to address pain management if needed. For more on centipede in Arizona, see ourArizona centipede guide.
How to recognize one
The Arizona bark centipede is unmistakable once you know what to look for. Adults typically measure 6 to 8 inches long, with some reaching up to 12 inches, making them by far the largest centipede species in the region. They have a distinctive reddish-brown to brick-red coloration, often with darker segments. The legs are yellowish and fairly thick compared to smaller centipedes. The first pair of legs is modified into large, powerful venomous claws called forcipules used for capturing prey and delivering venom. The body is somewhat flattened and moves with surprising speed for such a large creature. You will recognize it immediately by its size, color, and rapid movement. Smaller, less dangerous centipede species found in Arizona are yellowish, brown, or grayish and much more slender with longer, thinner legs. The Arizona bark centipede's chunky appearance and red coloration make it easy to distinguish fromwildlife in Arizona. Never attempt to handle or capture one without protection.
What to do if you are bitten or stung
If bitten by an Arizona bark centipede, first remove yourself from immediate danger and stay calm. Remove any jewelry, bracelets, or tight clothing from the bitten area, as swelling may be significant. Elevate the bitten limb gently to help slow swelling. Apply a cool compress or soak the area in cool water for comfort if tolerated. Do not apply ice directly to skin. Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain. This is general information, not medical advice; if you are bitten, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222, or 911 if symptoms are severe. Do not attempt field treatment such as cutting, sucking, or applying a tourniquet, as these cause more harm than benefit. Seek medical attention promptly, especially for bites to the face, hands, or if severe pain persists beyond one hour. A healthcare provider can evaluate the bite, rule out infection, and provide stronger pain management if needed. Keep the affected limb still and avoid strenuous activity for several hours after the bite. You can also browseArizona wildlife.
How to prevent encounters
Preventing encounters with Arizona bark centipedes starts with eliminating hiding places around your home and yard. Clear woodpiles, lumber stacks, and bark mulch away from your home's foundation, especially in areas where you frequently walk. Remove loose rocks, tiles, and rubble from around your house. Seal cracks and gaps in your home's foundation, basement, and around doors and windows. Keep your yard clear of dense ground cover and leaf litter near entryways. When working outdoors, wear thick gloves and check work areas before placing your hands down. Never reach into dark spaces, under rocks, or into wood piles without looking first. Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants when hiking in desert habitat. Shake out shoes, gloves, and clothing before putting them on, especially if stored in warm areas like garages. Check bedding and sleeping bags before use. Keep basements and crawl spaces dry, as centipedes seek moisture during hot, dry periods. Installing door sweeps and weather stripping further reduces the likelihood of centipedes entering your home.
Where in Arizona and when
The Arizona bark centipede is found primarily in southern and central Arizona, with concentrations in the Sonoran Desert region around Phoenix, the foothills and mountains surrounding Tucson, and areas near the Gila River and Colorado River valleys. They also inhabit the Chihuahuan Desert regions of southeastern Arizona. They prefer areas with some shelter such as rocks, logs, or ground cover, and are attracted to locations near human settlements where prey insects are abundant. Arizona bark centipedes are most active during warm months, particularly late spring through early fall, though they remain active year-round in warmer southern Arizona. In the cooler months, they are less frequently encountered but still present, especially in heated buildings. They are nocturnal predators that emerge after sunset to hunt insects and small arthropods. During the hottest parts of summer, they may retreat underground or into deep shelter during extreme heat. Late evening and early morning hours in spring and fall are when encounters are most likely.
Harmless lookalikes
In Arizona, the most common confusion involves smaller, harmless centipede species and millipedes. Millipedes, which are completely harmless, have two pairs of legs per body segment and move slowly, curling into a spiral when threatened. Centipedes have one pair of legs per segment and move rapidly. Smaller Arizona centipede species are slender and yellowish or light brown, with long, thin legs. They lack the chunky, brick-red appearance of the Arizona bark centipede. These smaller species do not bite aggressively and pose no real danger. Various insects and arthropods might seem similar at a glance but differ in leg count and body structure. The key distinction is that the Arizona bark centipede is noticeably larger, red-toned in color, has thick legs, and moves quickly. Learning to distinguishmore on Centipede in Arizonafrom other creatures brings reassurance that most of what you encounter in your yard is harmless. When in doubt, never handle it and let it pass.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Are centipedes deadly?** No. The Arizona bark centipede bite is painful but not life-threatening. No deaths have resulted from bites in healthy adults. **How common are centipede bites in Arizona?** Bites are uncommon. Centipedes are shy and avoid humans. Bites occur only when centipedes are handled, stepped on, or feel threatened. **What attracts centipedes to a house?** Moisture, insects, and shelter attract centipedes. Keeping yards clear of hiding places and homes dry helps prevent entry. **What should I do if I see one?** Leave it alone and it will not harm you. You can scare it away with a stick or broom, or simply let it pass. For more information about desert wildlife andwildlife in Arizona, consult our detailed guides. Centipedes are beneficial predators that feed on cockroaches, crickets, and other pests, making them actually helpful to have around despite their intimidating appearance.
Plan your trip
Best time to see centipede in Arizona: August, March, July
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your centipede sighting in Arizona
2,041 verified centipede records have been logged in Arizona, most recently in 2026. See the GBIF records.
Where to look in Arizona
- Chiricahua National Monument · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Coronado National Memorial · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Fort Bowie National Historic Site · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Grand Canyon National Park · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
- Lake Mead National Recreation Area · Wildlife Watching · Find hotels
- Montezuma Castle National Monument · Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching · Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
Are they in Arizona?+
Centipedes are well established throughout Arizona, particularly in the southern and central parts of the state. The most notable is the Arizona bark centipede, scientifically known as Scolopendra heros, which is one of the largest and most significant centipede species in North America. This species is found in desert, semi-arid, and subtropical regions across Arizona, thriving in the Sonoran Desert, Chihuahuan Desert, and surrounding foothills. The Arizona bark centipede inhabits areas near the Colorado River valley, the Gila River region, Phoenix, Tucson, and surrounding areas. Smaller, less notable centipede species are found statewide in appropriate habitats. The Arizona bark centipede is established year-round in the state and is often encountered by residents in gardens, under rocks, in woodpiles, and occasionally in homes. While the species does range into parts of southern New Mexico and Texas, Arizona is a stronghold for this centipede. Learning aboutour wildlife guidesfor Arizona helps you understand the dangerous creatures sharing your environment.
How dangerous is it?+
The Arizona bark centipede delivers one of the most painful bites of any North American invertebrate, though it is rarely serious in healthy adults. A bite produces immediate, intense pain at the puncture site, similar to or worse than a wasp sting, often radiating through the affected limb. Pain typically peaks within 30 minutes and subsides over 12 to 24 hours. Swelling, redness, and bruising are common. Most people recover completely without serious complications. Severe reactions are rare but possible, especially in very young children, elderly persons, or those with compromised immune systems. Systemic symptoms such as lymph node swelling or low-grade fever occasionally occur. No deaths from Arizona bark centipede bites have been documented in healthy adults, and anti-venom is not available since the bite is painful but not life-threatening. However, the intensity of the pain warrants immediate medical attention. Bites should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out complications and to address pain management if needed. For more on centipede in Arizona, see ourArizona centipede guide.
More wildlife in Arizona