There is no time when encountering a scorpion face to face won’t be scary. These aggressive-looking pests are undoubtedly dangerous and the type of creature you should try to actively avoid. But what is the secret to keeping Phoenix scorpions off your property? Let’s start by talking about what you can expect from these creatures.
Common Area Scorpions
When it comes to scorpions, Phoenix, unfortunately, pulled the short straw. Our Phoenix service area is home to the Arizona bark scorpion, while other states only have mildly venomous scorpions that pose no serious risk to humans. This pest is one of the only species in the states that has a potentially lethal sting. Other area scorpion species include the giant hairy scorpion, the striped tail scorpion, and the yellow ground scorpion, all of which are venomous but do not pose a severe threat. To identify which scorpion species is hanging around your home here is a basic description of each:
Arizona Bark Scorpion
- Size: 2.5 inches
- Color: Various shades of tan
- Distinguishing Features: Glow blue under UV light.
Giant Hairy Scorpion
- Size: 5.5 inches
- Color: Yellow to tan
- Distinguishing Features: Black back
Yellow Ground Scorpion
- Size: 2 inches
- Color: Light tan to brown
- Distinguishing Features: Grey discoloration on its back
Stripetail Scorpion
- Size: 3 inches
- Color: Light yellow to brown
- Distinguishing Features: Dark stripes on its dorsal area
Why Scorpions Invade Homes
Scorpions do not prefer living indoors but will come inside if necessary. What do we mean by this? Well, scorpions are often threatened by the environment around them. Whether it’s cold temperatures, rainy weather, or a construction project in their natural habitat, these pests are regularly put in harm’s way, which prompts them to flee into nearby homes.
Another reason a scorpion will invade a home is if its food source migrates indoors. If you didn’t know, scorpions live on a diet of insects, arthropods, and other arachnids. If their prey feels the need to enter your home, scorpions might follow to keep their bellies full.
The Dangers Of Scorpions
The only scorpion in our area that poses a severe risk to human health is the Arizona bark scorpion. One sting from this scorpion elicits immediate pain, swelling, and redness around the affected area. Scorpion stings can also lead to difficulty breathing, muscle twitching, nausea, an accelerated heart rate, waves of tingling, and high blood pressure. If stung by an Arizona bark scorpion, seek immediate medical attention to minimize coming symptoms.
6 Prevention Tips For Scorpions
- Declutter your home and storage areas.
- Seal openings in your home’s exterior foundation and around frames using a caulk gun.
- Make sure your window/door screens, weatherstripping, and door sweeps are in good repair.
- Keep unscreened doors, and windows closed when not in use to keep scorpions from wandering in.
- Turn off exterior lights at night.
- Clear your yard of clutter and debris.
One Surefire Way To Guarantee Scorpions Stay Out Of Your Home
There is only one way to eliminate and prevent scorpions effectively, and that is with the help of a professional pest control company. At Overson Pest Control, we have the tools to get the job done right. Using advanced pest control strategies and industry-leading treatments, we will give your Phoenix property every possible advantage to fight back against scorpions and other common pests in our area.
Contact our team today to learn more about our comprehensive home pest control plans as well as our scorpion control plans and find one that suits your needs!