Did you know that Phoenix is home to over 30 species of scorpions? With their ability to thrive in the city’s desert climate, scorpions often find their way into homes, causing alarm for many residents.
Read on to learn more about species found in Phoenix and how to manage scorpion problems effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Phoenix has several common scorpions, like the Arizona Bark, Desert Hairy, Giant Hairy, Striped-Tail, and Yellow Ground Scorpions.
- The Arizona Bark Scorpion is the most dangerous in North America and often hides indoors during summer.
- You can prevent scorpions by reducing insects, keeping your yard tidy, sealing cracks, and using pest control services.
- If a scorpion stings you, get medical help if symptoms are severe, especially for kids or older adults.
What Types of Scorpions Are Common in Phoenix?
Phoenix is home to various Arizona scorpion species, each with distinctive traits and habits. Knowing more about the common types can help with safe living in the area when they become a real pain.
Arizona Bark Scorpions
The Arizona Bark Scorpion is a familiar sight in cities like Mesa and Chandler. Recognized for its slender body and tan color, this scorpion is quite distinct. It’s notably the most dangerous scorpion in North America.
Despite its small size, this common scorpion can pack a punch with its sting. It often hides in cool, moist places during the day and is quite active at night. This makes them frequent visitors inside homes, especially during the summer.
Desert Hairy Scorpions
The Desert Hairy Scorpion is the largest scorpion found in the United States. Often spotted in Gilbert and Peoria, it can grow up to 5 inches long. This species is less toxic than the Arizona Bark Scorpion, but its size can be intimidating.
Though this species of scorpions have moderately venomous stings, they are not considered life-threatening to adults. The thick pincers and hairy texture make them stand out as they roam underground or beneath rocks.
Giant Hairy Scorpions
Giant Hairy Scorpions, found often in desert areas around Phoenix, appear like Desert Hairy Scorpions but are larger and more robust. These scorpions can be impressive due to their considerable size and hairy bodies.
While not highly venomous, the giant variety of hairy scorpions can deliver a painful sting. Their impressive size and strength make them intriguing and sometimes alarming to encounter.
Striped-Tail Scorpions
Striped-Tail scorpions feature distinctive stripes along their tails and are moderately common in the Phoenix area. Smaller than their hairy counterparts, these scorpions are agile and quick to retreat when threatened.
These scorpions prefer rocky areas and are adept at hiding in small crevices. While their venom isn’t particularly dangerous, they are still a pest problem many residents wish to avoid.
Yellow Ground Scorpions
Yellow Ground Scorpions are known for their pale yellow or light brown appearance. Although smaller than other species like the Desert Hairy Scorpion, they are quick and adaptable to dry environments where they make habitats.
While their sting is painful, they are not considered medically dangerous. But, their aggressive nature, when disturbed, can lead to unwanted encounters. They are more active during the warmer months, seeking shelter in homes and garages.
Are Scorpion Stings Serious?
Like a bee sting, a scorpion sting in Phoenix can be a painful and potentially dangerous experience. While most stings from these arachnids aren’t life-threatening, it’s essential to know what to do if you get stung.
The initial reaction is typically a sharp, burning pain that may cause numbness or tingling. Stings from more venomous species like the Arizona Bark Scorpion can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or muscle twitching.
Certain symptoms, especially severe pain, breathing issues, or allergic reactions, demand immediate care. Children and older adults are at risk for complications, so if vomiting or muscle twitching occurs, seek medical attention quickly.
How to Keep Scorpions Away from Your Home
Many species are common in the Phoenix area. When you spot signs of scorpion infestations in closets during the summer months, they might have made your home hiding spots.
As homeowners, here’s what you can do to stop them in their tracks:
- Food Sources: Reducing food sources like crickets can help. Scorpions eat other insects, so controlling their presence is crucial. Regular pest control treatments can reduce their populations.
- Landscaping: Proper landscaping can deter scorpions. Keep grass cut short and trim back bushes that touch your home. Landscaping should not provide easy hiding spots for these pests.
- Sealing Entry Points: Check and seal access points in the foundation, windows, and doors. This prevents scorpions from wandering into the home. Using weather stripping is a simple and effective measure.
- Outdoor Lighting: Bright lights can attract insects, which in turn attract scorpions. Consider using yellow bulbs for outdoor lighting, as they are less attractive to bugs.
- Regular Inspection: Use a UV light to spot glowing scorpions lurking in dark corners. Look for these near walls, closets, or garages. They often appear translucent and fragile.
For better protection, hiring scorpion control services can be beneficial. They can create a customized plan to keep your home safe.
Is It Time to Call a Pest Control Company?
If scorpions start appearing inside the home, it’s a signal that stepping up pest control measures is necessary. This includes when pets or family members have close encounters more often.
At Green Home Pest Control, our scorpion exterminators specialize in safe pest management for infestations. If you see signs of pests in your Glendale or Scottsdale home, we’re here to help.
For more information on our pest control services, schedule a free consultation today.
