Scorpion myths and facts

Scorpions are one of Arizona’s most feared pests. There are many myths surrounding the fearsome creatures. It can be difficult to separate fact from fiction in regards to scorpions. Understanding the truth about scorpions can help to keep victims of scorpion stings from panicking, which can potentially worsen the effects of a sting.

Western Exterminator experts know how to perform scorpion control effectively. If you're running into scorpions around your home or business, contact us online or call 800-937-8398 to get help.

Scorpion claims: myth or fact?

All scorpion stings are fatal.

There is one species of scorpion out of approximately 100 in the United States that possesses venom capable of causing human fatality - the Arizona Bark Scorpion. However, all scorpions are capable of regulating the amount of venom that is injected during a sting. Since scorpions take time to recover venom supply, scorpions typically only excrete a small amount of venom during stings, and may not excrete any venom at all. Less than five percent of scorpion stings require medical attention each year, most are similar to a wasp sting. Antidotes have severely decreased the likelihood that a scorpion sting will be fatal.

People allergic to bee stings may also experience allergic reactions to scorpion stings. So, be careful if you fall into this category and seek medical help if you see alarming symptoms.

Scorpions can bite and sting.

Scorpions do not have teeth. Instead, they inflict stings with the venom-inflicting barb on the end of the tail. Although scorpion claws also look dangerous, scorpions typically use only the tail for defense and shield the rest of the body.

Scorpions stings leave a mark.

Scorpion stings often do not leave any mark. In some cases, it can be difficult to identify a scorpion sting because of the lack of any visible sign of a sting. Scorpion stings are most identifiable by the burning sensation that immediately follows and numbness or tingling that begins later. Depending on the species of scorpion and the amount of venom that was injected, the area surrounding scorpion stings may swell.

Scorpions are aggressive.

The preferred habitat of scorpions is beneath rocks and debris. Scorpions do not aggressively pursue humans. Most scorpion stings occur when humans step on scorpions or reach into an area where a scorpion is hiding. Scorpion stings can be avoided by wearing proper footwear when traveling through areas where scorpions are common and never reaching into debris piles or beneath rocks with bare hands. For example, use caution while removing clutter in the garage, as scorpions may be hiding there.

Larger scorpions are more dangerous.

The Arizona Bark Scorpion is the smallest species of scorpion in Arizona, typically about the size of a nickel. Despite the small size, this species of scorpion is the only scorpion that can potentially cause fatality. The venom released by this scorpion is a neurotoxin that may cause uncontrollable muscle movements. Other scorpion species common to Arizona, the Giant Hairy Scorpion and the Striped Tail Scorpion, are much larger than the Arizona Bark Scorpion at about five inches and slightly over two inches, but release much weaker venom.

Scorpion facts: What do scorpions eat?

Now, let’s discuss more scorpion facts, not just myths. What do scorpions eat, anyway? They eat insects, such as crickets and use their stingers to paralyze prey. Actually, scorpions’ habit of feeding on insects makes them helpful. If you see these arachnids at your home or business, contact a pest control professional to get rid of them.

Baby scorpions

Baby scorpions do not hatch from eggs; the female gives birth to them. They resemble the adults, but smaller. The female carries them on her back for a short period of time.

Where do scorpions live?

Scorpions are located on every continent except Antarctica. They prefer residing in vegetation, which includes overgrown vegetation around your yard. Scorpions are also found under rocks, in your garage, behind clutter or within palm trees. Overhanging tree branches should be trimmed to avoid scorpion problems.

Western Exterminator scorpion control

When faced with a scorpion problem, a pest control company provides the expertise to get rid of these pests. Western Exterminator is well-prepared to handle a scorpion infestation. First, a Western inspector will visit your premises and look for areas where scorpions may be getting in, as they can enter through even the tiniest opening. We offer a scorpion exclusion service for your home to prevent them from invading.

Additionally, we provide a chemical treatment around the perimeter of the property. A Western Exterminator representative may also recommend you remove debris to reduce scorpion hiding places.

Don't hesitate to get in touch with Western Exterminator to get rid of scorpions around your property - reach out to us today.