Back to: Scorpions
There are actually many kinds of scorpions in the world, and only one group (the True Scorpions) are capable of stinging. It’s actually a misconception that all scorpions can kill humans by default with their stings. With 1,500 species of scorpions worldwide, only about 20 to 25 are considered dangerous. Stings from this small group may cause complications that lead to death. Their sting may cause paralysis, convulsions, cardiac irregularities, or breathing difficulties. In the United States, only the Sculptured Bark scorpion is considered dangerous to humans out of the 50 species found in the country. Species of scorpions are found on every landmass, except Antarctica.
Scorpions are nocturnal. They hide during the day in places like under rocks, bark, patio stones, and in cement expansion joints (such as in sidewalks). Some scorpions dig burrows. The scorpion has keen senses of hearing and touch. They capture their prey with their large claws, and may sting it with their tails to subdue it. Crushing the victim and drawing it to their mouth, the body juices are eaten.
Some scorpion species live for 25 years, while most on average live 3 to 8. Females produce several broods, and gestation can take up to a year. Live babies quickly exit the birthing sac and climb onto the mother’s back. The new scorpions are able already to sting, and will leave the mother to fend for themselves several days later.
How They Travel
Scorpions have been introduced to new areas through shipping and commerce, as well as stowaways in personal belongings when people move.
Treatment and Elimination
Elimination of harborage is important in scorpion control, but it is almost impossible to achieve totally. Where possible, remove yard clutter or debris that gives the scorpion a place to hide. Pest proofing or sealing up the home is effective in keeping the scorpions outside. They are able climbers, so any cracks, gaps, or entry points need to be addressed. Door sweeps, weather strips, and tight thresholds are common remedies for doors. Caulking cracks, gaps, and utility entry points is also key. Inside sealing can reduce scorpions, especially concerning the attic. Entry points could include the gaps around recessed lighting, around vents and air returns, or any holes where pipes or cables go through the ceiling.
While direct sprays work to kill scorpions on contact, the residual effect is often ineffective. Interior dusts work quicker and are more of a long-term solution that will work. Dusting baseboard cracks or under carpet edges, especially near doorways, works well. Other hiding spots are in secluded dark areas, such as under furniture or cabinets. Many times a scorpion will be found in places where liquid sprays won’t do because of safety or label concerns. Raid or another suitable aerosol may be needed, or even just vacuuming them up. Sticky traps placed around the home where dusts cannot be applied may help, as well.
Exterior dusting is very effective, with special attention to cracks or gaps before you seal them or for those that cannot suitably be sealed. Special attention to eaves and soffits needs to be considered, as scorpions seem to fare well once they reach the attic. Attics can be fogged, but results won’t be remarkable. Scorpions often travel or hide underneath the insulation. Making sure entry points inside coming from the attic are sealed is your best bet.