Scorpion Identification & Prevention

Scorpions are a type of predatory arachnid hailing from the order Scorpiones. These pests are extremely recognizable by their eight legs, chitinous bodies, and large front-facing pincers.

The curved tail of the scorpion is topped by a stinger carrying a unique and potent venom. Although this venom is typically used to subdue prey, it can also have some deleterious effects on both people and pets.

All species of scorpion in Arizona are venomous to some degree. However, most of these arachnids prefer to target insects and other prey animals and rarely sting humans or pets. Even if they did, most scorpion species lack the venom potency to cause any serious side effects. Only one species, the Arizona bark scorpion, can cause life-threatening stings for people.

Keep in mind some individuals may be allergic to scorpion stings. Even if a species poses no danger to most humans, at-risk individuals may experience significant allergic reactions or go into anaphylactic shock when stung by a scorpion. If you think or know you’ve been attacked by a scorpion and are having trouble breathing, you should immediately visit a healthcare practitioner in your area.

Most scorpions prefer to stick to themselves and rarely invade homes or businesses. That said, there may be attractant factors inside and outside your property that draw scorpions closer to your space.

You may have a scorpion problem around your home if your yard collects lots of stagnant water. In addition to hydrating the scorpions themselves, an abundance of water may also attract the prey on which these pests feed.

You could also attract scorpions if you have a secondary pest infestation in your yard. Since scorpions feed on spiders, crickets, and roaches, a spike in one species often leads to a spike in another.

As mentioned, it’s rare to find scorpions living inside a home or business, especially since they require so much sunlight and heat. However, some species can shelter inside cracks and gaps to breed in the cool of the shade. Others may only temporarily come inside to avoid the hottest part of the day, or find food or water during droughts or seasons of scarcity.

You’re more likely to find a scorpion infestation near the rockiest parts of your home. Some species live under rocks or tree bark, while others prefer woodpiles and fallen trees. It’s a good idea to wear shoes near these areas to prevent yourself from incurring an accidental sting.

The best way to get rid of scorpions for good is to contact the professionals at Protection Termite Control. Once our team performs an inspection of your home or business, we can formulate a plan with proven next steps to get them out for good.

Give us a call today to get your quote for scorpion and home pest control in Phoenix.

You can rely on these tips to prevent scorpions in Arizona from returning to your property: 

• Seal up any cracks or gaps that could let scorpions wriggle into your home. 
• Replace tired screens or older door meshes that may allow pests to come inside. 
• Stack firewood at least 25 feet away from the sides of your home or business. 
• Remove unnecessary clutter in basements and crawl spaces to prevent yourself from attracting scorpions. 
• Address secondary pest prey infestations with the help of Protection Termite Control.