Scorpions – Information, Prevention and Treatment

Bark Scorpion

Just the name Scorpion can send chills down the spine of the most courageous of heart. But, as any warrior will tell you, it’s best to learn something about your enemy before you face them. Here are a few things you should know about scorpions before you go into battle.

Scorpion Bites

There are few things as frightening as a scorpion bite. This video describes efforts to save a child from a scorpion bite. Please be aware that some of the contend is hard to watch.

What are scorpions?

The scorpion is actually a close relative of the spider and tick. It has 4 pairs of legs, a pair of crablike pincers, and a long tail with a venom gland, and a stinger at the end. Most scorpions have many eyes; however, some cave dwelling scorpions are eyeless.

Scorpion crablike pincer with venom gland

Are scorpions as poisonous as people commonly believe?

Scorpions range from very poisonous to harmless. One of the most dangerous being the fat tailed scorpion found in the Middle East.

Where do you find scorpions?

The most common scorpion in North America is the Bark Scorpion. Scorpions are found mainly in the hot climates of the Desert Southwest (Southern California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas.) However, there are well over 1000 different species of Scorpions worldwide.

A Common Misconception-The Scorpion Habitat

Scorpions are usually thought of as desert creatures but in fact they can be found in many places on our diverse planet-on ice covered mountains, forests and caves.

How do scorpions reproduce?

Unlike their close relatives (spiders and ticks, ) Scorpions do not lay eggs, in other words, their young are born live. They birth approx. 15-25 young from a small opening on the underside of their abdomen. They crawl onto their mother’s back where they stay for a period of up to 3 weeks. It is there that they molt, drop off and begin life on their own.

Scorpion with live newborn mounted on back

Are there Scorpions at your house?

Scorpions can be found in many places around the home. Commonly they are found under stones, around wood piles, under bark of trees, and in cracks in driveways and patios, but they can be found in other areas around the home.

Scorpions are Nocturnal Night Stalkers

Perhaps the best way to rid yourself and surroundings of Scorpions is to battle them when the sun goes down. Scorpions forage at night for their food and can be seen in the dark with the use of a black light due to a florescent chemical in their body.

Pest Control Service for Scorpions

Hearts Pest Management can provide a service that will greatly reduce the risk of scorpions surrounding your property and invading your home. Call us for a free pest control inspection resulting in a plan for scorpion treatment and prevention.