Scorpion Identification & Prevention Guide

What are scorpions?

Scorpions belong to the class Arachnida, the same class as mites, spiders, and ticks. These nocturnal predators have four pairs of legs, a single pair of pincers, and long, segmented tails that curve over their bodies and end with a sharp stinger. Scorpions use their powerful pincers and stingers to capture prey, injecting a potent venom and paralyzing it. They have poor vision and rely on touch and vibrations to hunt. Female scorpions produce live young that they will carry on their back for up to 15 days.

Are scorpions dangerous?

Scorpion stings are excruciating and, like bee stings, can cause localized swelling and an intense burning sensation. The venom they produce is potent enough to trigger allergic reactions and sometimes even life-threatening anaphylaxis. In the United States, the bark scorpion has venom that is strong enough to be potentially fatal.

Why do I have a scorpion problem?

Scorpions are nocturnal and like to hide in dark, secluded spots during the day. Unfortunately, most residential properties have places they can hide such as trees, woodpiles, rocks, and logs. They are also great climbers and like to scale walls or any rough surface they come across. Properties with a lot of insect activity are desirable to scorpions. Like any pest, scorpions make themselves at home anywhere there is easy access to food and often find their way into homes, garages, and other structures while foraging for food.

Where will I find scorpions?

Outdoors, scorpions hide in dark, damp, and secluded areas where they will wait for their prey (insects, small rodents, spiders, and lizards) to come by so that they can subdue them. Scorpions that move inside chose to hide in places that mimic their outdoor environment; basements, bathrooms, closets, crawlspaces, and laundry rooms are their top choices.

How do I get rid of scorpions?

At Roberts Termite & Pest Control, we have been providing high-quality pest control here in Austin, TX for over 60 years. Our technicians use environmentally friendly products and advanced techniques to get rid of scorpions and other common pests. Through quality customer service and flexible scheduling, we work with you to meet your unique Greater Austin pest control needs. Learn more about our scorpion control services or schedule a free consultation by reaching out to Roberts Pest Control today!

How can I prevent scorpions in the future?

In addition to our professional services, the following prevention tips will help you to prevent problems with scorpions in your home or business:

• Use dehumidifiers in the basement, ventilate crawlspaces, and fix leaky pipes to reduce moisture levels indoors.

• Seal cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of your home or business.

• Install door sweeps on exterior doors.

• Wipe excess moisture our of sinks and bathtubs.

• Create a barrier of crushed rock or stone between your property and any mulch, soil, or grass.

• Remove piles of leaves, fallen trees or tree limbs, excess woodpiles, and other organic debris from your property where scorpions can hide.