Scorpions

What are scorpions?

Scorpions are a type of arachnid with more than 2,000 species found living worldwide. Scorpions are predators and feed on other scorpions, insects, and spiders. These pests are unique because they grow slowly, taking one to six years to reach maturity (depending on the species). The average life span of a scorpion is between three and five years, though some live longer. These arachnids are highly adaptable, and many scorpion species have figured out how to live near people to survive. 

One of the most common scorpion species living in the United States is the brown bark scorpion (bark scorpion).

The main characteristics of the brown bark scorpion include:

• The length of an adult is between two and a half to three inches long.

• Body color is brownish-yellow or tan.

• Slender curved tails and large claws are narrower than other scorpion species.

• Unique ability to climb up surfaces.

Are scorpions dangerous?

Yes, scorpions are dangerous. These arachnids use a venom-filled stinger on the end of their tail to defend themselves and paralyze prey. The venom that scorpions possess is strong enough to trigger allergic reactions in people. The specific individual’s sensitivity to the venom will determine how strong of an allergic reaction they will experience.

The scorpion species in the United States that poses the most significant health risks for people is the bark scorpion. Their stings are very painful and cause symptoms that include numbness, muscle twitching, convulsions, and difficulty breathing. Young children and the elderly are more likely to have a severe reaction to bark scorpion venom than a healthy adult; anyone stung by a brown bark scorpion should seek medical attention promptly.

Why do I have a scorpion problem?

Scorpions feed on a wide variety of prey and make themselves at home on any property that provides them with lots of insects, spiders, and other scorpions to hunt. In addition to ample food sources, brown bark scorpions also prefer to live in areas that provide them with plenty of shelter and moist areas to hide in.

A yard with dense bushes or ornamental decor provides an ideal space for scorpions to live out of the view of humans. If there is a lot of vegetation near the exterior of your home, it also helps keep these dangerous pests concealed as they move in and out of your home. 

Scorpions can live for extended periods of time without food; they can slow their metabolism down to lower their food and oxygen needs. However, scorpions are not able to live without a source of moisture for long periods. Things like leaky pipes, dripping air conditioners, and clogged gutters provide these pests with the water that they need for survival. Once they find a suitable place where they are having their basic needs met, they tend to hunker down and stay long term, leading to a scorpion infestation.

Where will I find scorpions?

There are many spots scorpions like to hide. Outside homes, scorpions hide: 

• Behind tree bark

• Under rocks, logs, and fallen trees

• Within woodpiles

• In gardens and flower beds 

• In garages and sheds

After moving inside a home, scorpions move to areas that provide them with the moisture they require for survival, such as basements, crawl spaces, bathrooms (sinks and tubs), wall voids, laundry rooms, and rarely used rooms.

Scorpions also hide in:

• Cardboard boxes

• Folded towels

• Laundry

• Potted plants

How do I get rid of scorpions?

At White Knight Pest Control, we understand people don’t want to share their yards and homes with dangerous scorpions. To help ease your fears, we provide quick action and the services necessary to eliminate scorpions. Our annual service plans utilize eco-friendly pest control products and top-of-the-line services to ensure we meet your needs.

We take the time necessary to build relationships with each of our customers, ensuring we are always working together to meet your unique pest control expectations. Learn more about keeping your property free of scorpions with the help of White Knight Pest Control! Contact us today and speak with one of our friendly professionals!

How can I prevent scorpions in the future?

At White Knight Pest Control, we will help you prevent problems with scorpions using our regular treatments. In conjunction with our comprehensive pest control services, the following prevention tips will help you keep brown bark scorpions out of your Texas, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, or Oklahoma home!

• Eliminate hiding spots: Remove fallen trees, leaf piles, and excess woodpiles. Cut overgrown grass and vegetation away from the outside of your home. Plant your landscaping specimens at least two feet from your home. Keep storage areas within your house free of clutter. Keep shed and garage doors closed whenever possible.

• Reduce excess moisture: Repair leaky pipes and air conditioning units. Inside your home, keep humidity levels low by using dehumidifiers in the basement and other damp areas. Ventilate crawl spaces. Wipe down excess moisture from sinks and tubs.

• Eliminate entry points: Seal cracks in the foundation or exterior walls of your home. Place door sweeps on exterior doors and replace worn weather stripping. Place covers over vents and drains. Repair damaged trim around doors. Stack firewood up off of the ground and away from your home.