Scorpions
Scorpions in Arizona
There are about 90 species of scorpions in the United States and an estimated 1,500 species worldwide. There are more than 40 species in Arizona. Those numbers constantly change as new species are discovered, classifications change, and some species become extinct. Scorpions have four pairs of legs. They also have pincers that look like little lobster claws. In the western U.S., only one species of scorpion venom is considered very dangerous to humans. It is called the Arizona Bark Scorpion.
Arizona Bark Scorpion
The Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides exilicauda) is the primary and most venomous scorpion in Tucson. These scorpions lurk in shelter and shade, then come out at night since they are nocturnal. This scorpion species typically will consume small insects such as crickets and roaches but will occasionally ingest other scorpions.
While we mainly see them on the ground, on rocks, (after hiding beneath them), they can be seen on trees or some walls. If they can get into the home, bark scorpions may take residence in small hiding places (i.e., wall voids, closets, under furniture, shoes, etc.).
Bark scorpions are about 2 inches long, tan in color, and maybe easily missed. However, they can be seen at night or in dark areas with a black-light to illuminate their exoskeleton. Also, they are more likely to invade the home given their size since they can fit in more minor entry points.
They will differ in their tail shape as well. For example, bark scorpions have a well-known curved tail, whereas another common scorpion here in Tucson has a straight tail and will be black.
We will see them more often during the monsoon season since the food source is plenty with more humidity comes more small insects for them to feed. If you keep the lights on at night, that will attract other insects for them, thus, providing a food source for scorpions.
If this scorpion stings you, you may need to seek medical attention. This kind of sting can cause severe pain for 1-3 days to an adult human. You may also have numbing, tingling, or temporary dysfunction of the affected area. Some people experience dyspnea, or shortness of breath, for a brief time.
If you have animals, they can suffer similar symptoms along with an allergic reaction up to anaphylaxis – sometimes requiring hospitalization.
Unfortunately, the bark scorpion can live for 3-7 years, which makes scorpion pest control essential here in Tucson, AZ. With any scorpion problem, you should schedule service for our experienced technicians at University Termite and Pest Control to come to get rid of them.
Scorpion Pest Control
No matter the type of Scorpion, the best thing you can do for your family is get rid of them.
University Termite and Pest Control specialize in responsible and effective scorpion removal, along with the other pests.
When we work on your scorpion problem, it is best to prevent future scorpion infestations. Therefore, your team of hard-working technicians will:
- Seal the house from entry points: We work to identify and correct any gaps in window frames, crevices, and other crawl spaces that they use to enter your home.
- Use smaller gravel or rocks: This is another means of eliminating their hiding spots and making your property unappealing for them.
- Get rid of insects: If you can get insects, you will eradicate their food source and won’t want to stay.
Since the Bark Scorpion is the most venomous scorpion in North America and is the most common one here, we take eliminating them very seriously.
Scorpion Control You Can Trust
Our team at University Termite and Pest Control have over 50 years of experience and have seen these bark scorpions time and time again. Contact us today for a reliable pest control company that will work with your home, your budget, and your pests to keep you and your family safe and happy.