If you live in Arizona, chances are you have already come in contact with some interesting insects. You may have even seen an Arizona bark scorpion, a small, light brown scorpion that is common to the Sonoran Desert area, ranging from southern California through Arizona and into western New Mexico and Mexico.
Here are some other details to note about bark scorpions:
- The bark scorpion is normally two to three inches long with eight legs and a pair of pincers.
- Their bodies are made up of two parts, a cephalothorax and an abdomen (which includes the tail/stinger).
- The bark scorpion can climb, so it is often found under objects like rocks, as well as in trees and on walls.
- They like cool, moist areas of homes and can often be found in small crevices, crawl spaces, under bricks and rocks outside, and also inside of houses.
- Scorpions hide during the day and actively feed on insects at night.
- Arizona bark scorpions are the only species of scorpion in Arizona that is truly considered life-threatening.
Although this type of scorpion is dangerous, research from The University of Arizona states that there have been no reported fatalities in the U.S. from scorpion stings in the past 20 years. This is mainly due to the availability of antivenom.
Ways to Avoid Bark Scorpions
Not ready to pack your bags and leave Arizona, yet? Thankfully, there are several things that you can do to avoid the Arizona bark scorpion and other types of scorpions.
- Close up any cracks or small openings in your home, such as those near doors, screens and windows.
- Keep the corners of your home clean by dusting and vacuuming the places where scorpions might be hiding.
- Most scorpion stings occur on the hands or feet, so don’t walk around your house at night with bare feet.
- Use Defense Pest Control’s home pest control services to rid your house of the scorpion’s prey, which can include crickets, spiders, roaches and other insects.
If you do get stung by a scorpion, clean the site with soap and water, use a cool compress on the site of the sting and elevate the area. Then, call the Banner Good Samaritan Poison Control Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222, and an expert can advise you on your next steps.
Prevent Scorpions in Your Mesa, AZ Home with Defense Pest Control
Our team of pest control experts at Defense Pest Control can help you prevent any scorpions from making their home in and around your house. Contact us online or call F:P:Sub:Phone} today to set up a pest control plan to protect your home and family from harmful insects and pests.
Defense Pest Control offers a variety of pest control services to clients in Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek, Gilbert, San Tan Valley, Maricopa, Gold Canyon and Florence, AZ.