For centuries scorpions have been depicted as dangerous creatures who can kill with just a single sting from their tails. Even in our modern day and age scorpions are still feared and avoided at all costs. All of this being said, how dangerous are scorpions really? Can any scorpions here in Longview have you hospitalized with a single sting, or are they nothing more than harmless pests? Let’s find out together.
Common Scorpions Around Longview
Texas is home to 18 different species of scorpion, some are more common than others. Most common of them all is the striped bark scorpion. To identify a striped bark scorpion look for its tan color and distinct broad black bands along the top of its abdomen. Scorpions belong to the class of Arachnida meaning that they are more closely related to spiders than any other pest. To identify scorpions in general look for their 8 oddly bent legs, two forward pinchers, and a stinger tipped tail.
Scorpion Habits
Scorpions are nocturnal pests by nature, which means they only come out during the night time and sleep during the day. When awake, scorpions will roam about and hunt for insects such as cockroaches, crickets, and spiders. One interesting fact about scorpions is that they can live for months without food, but only 48 hours without a drink of water.
Where Do Scorpions Live
Out in nature scorpions will gravitate toward dry areas. This is why they are so common around deserts and arid regions. During the daytime, scorpions will stay out of sight by hiding in underground burrows or beneath rocks, logs, or debris. Doing this not only keeps them hidden but will also keep them cool during the squelching heat of the day. Very often when temperatures get high enough, or when their nests are disturbed, scorpions will seek shelter within the walls of a home. Once inside, scorpions can stay for months as long as they can find insects to eat and water to drink.
How Dangerous Are Scorpions
Out of all the scorpions here in Texas, only the Arizona bark scorpion has been recorded to have a lethal sting. Fortunately, fatality from one of these scorpion’s stings is rare, and even less common when immediate medical attention is received. If you are allergic to the venom of stinging insects be extra careful around scorpions as your reaction could be intensified. To find out if you are allergic to scorpion venom consult your doctor. This way you can have an EpiPen available just in case you are stung.
Prevention Tips For Scorpions
If your home has cracks and gaps in its exterior, scorpions will use them to find their way inside. Once inside moisture and available food sources will encourage them to stay. By eliminating entry points and restricting their ability to gain access to food and water, you can greatly reduce your chances of having trouble with scorpions. Here are some practical steps our experts recommend you try around your home.
- Use a caulking gun or liquid cement to seal up gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior foundation as well as around doors and window frames.
- Fix leaky pipes and fixtures throughout your home.
- Make sure your exterior gutters are in good working order.
- Use a dehumidifier inside when it is particularly humid.
- Remove brush, leaf piles, and other debris from your yard.
- Turn your outdoor lights off at night or invest in insect repellent bulbs.
What To Do When Scorpions Come Inside
Here at Innovative Pest Control, we offer the high-quality services you need to remove dangerous scorpions from your Longview home. If you think you have spotted a scorpion within your home, give us a call today. We will send one of our highly trained technicians out your way with a quick and easy solution designed to fit your needs.
Categories:
- Pest Control,
- Scorpions Control
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