When we think of scorpions, a certain menacing visage pops into our brains—the shiny outer shell, the pincers, and their iconic stinger. But don’t let scorpions intimidate you. With the right approach and planning, anyone can enjoy a blissful spring season without wandering scorpions.
Burns Pest Elimination is setting out to prove it to you. In this blog, we’ll show you how to identify some of the most common types of scorpions in Arizona and provide you with the best scorpion pest control options to help prevent or eliminate their presence from your Arizona or Las Vegas home.
Types of Scorpions in Arizona
While it’s pretty easy to identify a scorpion upon sight, it’s a bit trickier to determine exactly which one you’re looking at. Luckily, we’re here to help with that! The following are some of the most common scorpion species in Arizona.
Stripe-Tailed Scorpion
The stripe-tailed scorpion is a common pest in Las Vegas and Arizona. It’s recognizable by its dark stripes on the tail and legs. They measure between two and three inches, and their sting is rarely fatal to adults. The symptoms of a sting generally improve after a day, but seek medical attention if needed.
Arizona Bark Scorpion
The most venomous scorpion in Arizona, the Arizona bark scorpion, is relatively small and slender. It’s identified by its pale, yellow-tan color and dark markings on its back and tail. If you spot a scorpion crawling on walls or ceilings, you can quickly identify it as an Arizona bark scorpion.
If you’re stung by this scorpion, catch it in a container and immediately go to the nearest medical clinic for treatment. Quick medical assistance can reduce the venom’s effects. You can also give poison control a call.
Giant Desert Hairy Scorpion
The giant desert hairy scorpion can grow to an imposing six inches, the largest in North America, and has a robust body with long, hairy appendages and a light brown coloration. While no doubt one of Arizona’s most intimidating scorpion types, we have good news. If you’ve been struck by this scorpion’s sting, the venom is comparable to a bee sting. Keep an eye on it for 24 hours. If symptoms worsen, pursue medical care.
Scorpion Pest Control Methods
Eliminating scorpion threats and preventing future infestations can be achieved through smart pest control strategies. Follow these recommendations to tackle scorpion problems effectively.
1. Seal Entry Points
Despite their rigid outer shell, most scorpions can maneuver through tiny cracks and gaps near doors, windows, walls, and foundations. If you find scorpions inside your house, inspect its exterior and seal any diagnosed entry points with caulk, weather stripping, or door sweeps.
2. Reduce Moisture Sources and Clutter
If you want to keep scorpions away from your home, it’s important to reduce sources of water and habitat. Eliminate standing water that attracts scorpions, fixing any leaky pipes, faucets, or appliances. Use a dehumidifier in the wet areas of your house, such as the garage or basement, to help decrease the presence of water and discourage scorpions from stopping by.
Declutter your outdoor spaces by removing piles of debris, woodpiles, and excess vegetation that make for ideal scorpion hiding spots. Take a similar approach inside by cleaning up crumpled bags, stray food, and other trash collected on floors or countertops.
3. Use Natural Predators
Consider introducing natural predators, especially if it’s feasible with your living situation. This won’t apply to all circumstances, but if you have a yard or garden, you can encourage biodiversity in those areas by planting native vegetation that attracts natural scorpion predators like spiders, centipedes, frogs, toads, and lizards. Chickens, owls, coyotes, small snakes, and bats are all excellent natural predators against scorpions.
Invest in Effective Scorpion Pest Control Efforts With Burns
Burns Pest Elimination is a family-owned operation dedicated to the health and safety of local homes and businesses. We take pride in our effectiveness, our reputation as a company trusted to use only high-quality chemicals, and our ability to curate services to meet your specific pest needs.
If you’ve found yourself unable to shake off persistent scorpions in your Las Vegas or Arizona home and want to take proactive measures to ensure they don’t become a problem, we encourage you to reach out for an expert consultation. Request a free quote today!