Scorpion Identification & Prevention
What are scorpions?
Arizona is well-known for having its fair share of scorpions. Over time, scorpions have adapted to living near people as our yards and homes often provide them with plenty of food and water and indoor shelter to escape harsh weather conditions. Scorpions are arachnids and have eight legs, two body seg,ents, and pedipalps (claw-like pincers).
Although scorpions have many eyes—two on the top of their head and two to five lateral eyes along each side of their heads—they have poor vision. Scorpions use their segmented curved tails equipped with a stinger to paralyze their prey. They also use this stinger to protect themselves from perceived danger. Their ability to sting us and our pets is the biggest reason they are unwelcome in our Arizona yards and homes.
In our region, the following scorpions are most problematic:
- Arizona bark scorpion
- Arizona stripe-tailed scorpion
- Arizona giant hairy scorpion
- Yellow ground scorpion
Are scorpions dangerous?
Being stung by a scorpion is painful and the venom injected affects the nervous system. Symptoms caused by a scorpion sting can include muscle spasms, numbness, convulsions, and difficulty breathing. Like with most stinging pests, a person’s reaction to a sting depends on their sensitivity to the venom. Usually, young children, the elderly, and people with allergies experience the most severe reactions.
It is important to note that scorpions aren’t aggressive and stings usually occur after we accidentally make contact with them. Scorpions like to hide in dark, quiet areas where it is difficult to spot them.
Why do I have a scorpion problem?
A property that meets their moisture needs will be most attractive to these pests; scorpions can live for a long time without food but can’t survive without access to water. Leaky pipes, outdoor fixtures, dripping hoses, clogged gutters, and rotting vegetation provide them with the moisture they're looking for and act as a draw for scorpions.
Our yards not only provide scorpions with water but sources of food. Our yards, gardens, and trees are full of the insects and spiders that these pests like to feed on.
Where will I find scorpions?
It is typical for scorpions to move from our yards and into our homes while following their prey or searching for water. Scorpions are good climbers and move inside through spaces they find around windows and doors, rooflines, or foundations. Openings around vents, pipes, and utilities are other common entry points for scorpions.
Once inside, they will move to dark, quiet areas where they are likely to find prey. Basements, wall voids, spaces behind sinks and tubs, under cabinets, and the insides of closets are spots where people often discover scorpions. These pests are also regular visitors of outbuildings like garages, sheds, and pool houses.
How do I get rid of scorpions?
At Overson Pest Control, we can help you rid your property of scorpions and protect you and your family from their painful and dangerous stings. We care about our customers and are committed to solving your pest problems.
To eliminate scorpions, our professionals will find and treat their nesting and breeding sites, using a product that will quickly kill off the scorpions on your property. With pest control services backed by a 100% guarantee and unlimited free re-services, you can trust that we'll rid your property of scorpions and help prevent them from returning. To learn more about our effective scorpion control services, contact us today!
How can I prevent scorpions in the future?
In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, protect your property from scorpions with the following prevention tips:
- Reduce areas of excess moisture in and around your home.
- Keep sinks and bathtubs free of water when not in use.
- Repair cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of your home.
- Seal spaces around utilities entering into your house.
- Place screens on open windows and doors to keep scorpions from climbing through them.
- Remove things from your yard like tarps, pool toys, tires, and leftover pavers or bricks.
- Keep storage areas in your home free of extra clutter where scorpions can hide.
Helpful Scorpion Articles
