Scorpion Identification

What are scorpions?

Scorpions are closely related to spiders and other arachnids. These pests are not creatures anyone wants lurking around their Phoenix yard and especially not inside their home. 

The long segmented tail that curves over a scorpion’s body helps to identify them and has a stinger at its end that delivers painful, venom-filled stings. Other physical features of scorpions include well-develop claws, eight legs, and many eyes.

Some of the most common scorpions living in our region include the Arizona bark scorpion, the giant hairy scorpion, and the striped tail scorpion.

Arizona bark scorpions are smaller than other species, with adults growing to between two and a half and three inches in length. The body is a brownish-yellow or tan color, and the tail and claws are more slender than other scorpion species.

Giant hairy scorpions are a larger species with adults growing to between five and seven inches long. The body is yellow with some darker markings on the back, and fine brown hairs cover the body and tail. 

The striped tail scorpion is the most common species in the Arizona region. Yellowish to tan in color, this scorpion has two markings resembling broad stripes on its upper abdomen. It also has a dark, distinct triangle shape on its head.

Are scorpions dangerous?

Scorpions aren’t pests that people fear just because they look unfriendly; scorpions are dangerous to people and pets. 

The Arizona bark scorpion is of particular concern; being stung by one of these scorpions can produce life-threatening symptoms and warrants seeking immediate medical attention.

Being stung by most other species of scorpions is likened to being stung by a bee or wasp; it is painful, but unless allergic to the venom, it usually doesn’t cause long-term effects. 

Children, the elderly, and those allergic are most likely to have a severe reaction to a scorpion sting.

Why do I have a scorpion problem?

Scorpions are predators and excellent hunters. Though they have many eyes, scorpions have poor vision and hunt best by touch and vibration. Out in nature, scorpions are helpful, working with other predatory insects and arachnids to control the number of nuisance insects.

As with most pests, food is the biggest attractant to a property for scorpions. If there is a lot of insect activity in your yard, it will attract these predators. Things like open trash cans, gardens, fruit trees, pet food, and outdoor eating areas will attract a variety of insects to your property and, in turn, the scorpions that want to hunt them. 

Moisture also draws these pests to a property; despite thriving in desert areas, scorpions have surprisingly high moisture needs. Things like clogged gutters, leaking pipes, poorly ventilated spaces, and dripping air conditioners will attract scorpions.

Where will I find scorpions?

There are many places you will find scorpions living in and around our homes and yards. Garden mulch, woodpiles, dense landscaping, trees, and rock walls are places where scorpions will hang out in our yards.

They often move indoors after being attracted by moisture or while hunting prey. Common entry points include gaps around windows and doors, openings in the foundation, and gaps around utilities.

Once inside, they usually live in areas with higher humidity levels and insect activity like basements, crawl spaces, attics, utility rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Some of their favorite indoor hideouts include:

• Tubs and sinks

• Closets and cabinets

• Boxes 

• Folded towels and bedding

• Stored clothing and shoes

How do I get rid of scorpions?

With decades of experience, you can trust Green Flash Pest Control to rid your California property of unwanted and dangerous scorpions. We are a locally-owned, family-based company that takes protecting its community from unwanted pests seriously. Through our wide variety of pest control services, outstanding customer care, and guaranteed solutions, you can trust the dedicated professional at Green Flash Pest Control with all your pest control needs!

Give us a call today and speak with one of our helpful professionals to learn how we can work together to solve your property’s scorpion problems.

How can I prevent scorpions in the future?

Taking the following steps will make your property less attractive to scorpions and help you and your family avoid unwanted encounters with these pests.

• Keep lids on trash cans, keep outdoor eating areas clear of leftover food, and maintain your kitchen to keep it free of food debris. Doing these things will make your property less attractive to the insects that scorpions like to hunt.

• Repair things that are causing excess moisture on your property like dripping faucets, leaking pipes, and poor ventilation.

• Clean up leaves, brush, and other debris from your yard where scorpions can hide.

• Clean out the clutter from your home’s storage areas (closets, cabinets, crawlspaces) Where scorpions can hide. 

• Remove entry points by making sure screens in windows and doors are intact, repairing gaps around windows and doors, and sealing spaces that open up in the foundation.

Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest management options.