Bugs and spiders in New Mexico

What to watch for in New Mexico

Start with the western black widow, the most-recorded species in the state; an adult female's bite can cause severe muscle pain and cramps, so get medical advice right away. The Arizona bark scorpion is also established. Its sting is very painful and can be dangerous for young children and older adults, so call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 right away. The brown recluse is a concern only in eastern New Mexico around Roswell.

Two ticks are established: the Rocky Mountain wood tick in parts of the state, and the brown dog tick, which feeds mostly on dogs and can breed indoors. American dog tick records exist, but it is not known to live here. Yellow fever mosquitoes are established in parts of the state, and red imported fire ants in Doña Ana County only.

Through the year

Spring

Rocky Mountain wood ticks are out from snowmelt through about mid-July, and pill bugs show up indoors after long rainy periods.

Summer

Arizona bark scorpions favor warm nights above about 70°F, western black widows are most active from late spring through fall, and European paper wasps work around the outside of the house.

Fall

Boxelder bugs arrive from late August, western conifer seed bugs move in during September and October, and Asian lady beetles follow in October and November.

Winter

Western black widows can overwinter in garages and crawl spaces, European paper wasp queens sometimes appear indoors, and silverfish are around all year.