Arachnids always get the short end of the stick in mainstream cinema, and the same can be said for scorpions. These whip-tailed monstrosities are nothing short of nightmare fuel, but the types of scorpions in Phoenix aren't nearly as deadly as the media likes to portray. That doesn't mean they aren't dangerous pests – scorpions are still harmful to your health, especially if you're allergic, so you need to know how to keep them away from your property this season with effective pest control services in Phoenix.
Common Scorpion Species Found In Phoenix
Scorpions live worldwide, even in colder regions, though most species prefer arid and tropical climates. There are over 45 different kinds of scorpions in Phoenix alone, but only a handful of them infest neighborhoods and residential areas:
- Giant hairy scorpions – roughly four to seven inches long, yellow base color with dark brown backs, small hairs on the underside of their bodies.
- Stripe-tailed scorpions – two to three inches long, tan bodies, dark coloring on their backs and stripes up the length of their tails.
- Arizona bark scorpions – two inches long, tan bodies, easily identified by how they curl their tails next to their bodies.
Even though these arachnids prefer warmer environments, they're usually not all that active during the day. They hide under rocks leaf piles and even burrow into the sand to avoid hotter hours. Once the sun sets and the temperature drops for the evening, scorpions emerge to hunt down their meals.
The Dangers Of A Scorpion's Sting
All scorpions are venomous, but only two species in the United States are dangerous enough to be considered deadly. Unless you're allergic to scorpion venom, the worst symptoms you'll experience from a less harmful scorpion are localized pain and swelling, like a sting from a bee or wasp. Most unpleasant encounters with scorpions aren't cause for too much alarm, but unfortunately, the Arizona bark scorpion is one of our more harmful species in North America.
A sting from an Arizona bark scorpion can be deadly. Symptoms from their venom include extreme pain, numbness, muscle spasms, shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting; in more severe cases, paralysis and seizure-like symptoms can occur. Luckily, scorpions aren't aggressive, so they only sting if they feel threatened, but it is always advised to seek medical help in a scorpion sting.
Factors That Attract Scorpions To A Home
Nobody wants a scorpion infestation on their property, but sometimes our lawns and homes attract scorpions without realizing it. Scorpions look for four specific qualities when looking for a new nesting spot:
- Moisture – even though Arizona native scorpions are acclimated to our desert biome, they still need lots of water. Leaky pipes, poor-draining soil, and clogged gutters are the biggest culprits for moisture problems.
- Shade – scorpions are only active at night, so they need many places to hide during the day.
- Shelter – dark, cozy spots like sink cabinets, basements, rocks, and crawl spaces provide perfect protection for scorpions.
- Food – since scorpions are carnivores, they usually infest properties already suffering from an underlying pest problem.
You can reduce your chances of a scorpion infestation by minimizing these attractive qualities around your property, but that isn't always a guarantee. The most effective way to protect your home from dangerous pests like scorpions is with the help of your local Phoenix pest control company.
The Best Scorpion Control Solution For Phoenix Homes
Yard work shouldn't feel like a minefield, but eliminating a scorpion infestation on your own is just as dangerous as having them around your property. The best way to get rid of scorpions in Phoenix is with professional assistance from our pest experts at Uni-Tech Pest Control. We're constantly improving our methods with the latest advancements in scorpion control. This includes the use of Integrated Pest Management techniques in our treatments. We offer full guarantees with all of our services. So give us a call today and experience the exceptional service that's kept us in business for over 20 years!
Complete the form below to schedule your no-obligation inspection.