Throughout America there are about 90 species of scorpions and 18 of those species are found in the state of Texas. A scorpion isn’t an insect but is actually part of the Arachnida family, which includes scorpions, spiders, ticks and king crabs. A Five Star Termite & Pest Control will share more about scorpions and how you can keep this extremely hardy pest out of your home.
Scorpion Identification
As the size and coloring of scorpions vary from species to species, they usually share the same common traits. They all have four pairs of jointed legs with a large pair of pedipalps which are the arms. Those arms have strong claws at the end. Many species of scorpions have six eyes and of course, the deadly tail equipped with a stinger at the end. Depending on the species and their environment, scorpions live any from three to twenty-five years. Most species of scorpions aren’t deadly to humans. The one species known to be harmful, and even deadly to humans, is the Sculptured scorpion. However, encounters are rare as they are native to Arizona but have been sighted in Texas. Unless a person has a sensitive immune system or an allergic reaction, most stings aren’t harmful. Stings can create a painful numbing sensation that can last up to three of four days.
Evolution of Scorpions
Scorpions are a survivalist and can be found even in the most challenging of climates. Scorpions have been around for millions of years. The oldest scorpion we have ever found lived about 350 million years ago with little alteration to their biology. This means they have been rather successful. This ancient fossil revealed that this scorpion was an estimated 400 pounds and had a thirteen-inch claw. Thankfully, scorpions shrunk as they evolved. This fossil is a testament to this species success. Due to their success, scorpions can be rather difficult to control. It requires a lot of effort from both homeowners and pest control specialists to control scorpions.
How to Prevent Scorpions in Your Home & Yard
If you’re facing a scorpion invasion, the homeowner plays a major role in a successful control program. If you’re having frequent visitors that are coming from outside, they are living and thriving in your yards. Scorpions will hide under rocks, leaves, yard debris, in trees, and most especially, palm trees. They hide in dark places during the day and come out at night to hunt. To begin battling scorpions, have your yard and the area around the home clean and free of clutter. Your main goal is to deprive scorpions of places to hide. Additionally, you’ll want to remove the pests and insects that the scorpions feed on, which is an additional step to successfully eliminating scorpions. Scorpions require water and are drawn to puddles or stagnate water sources. You might have seen dead scorpions in your pet’s water dish or in a bucket. Repair any leaky pipes or faucets outside. By depriving scorpions of shelter, food, and water, you will notice scorpion sightings reduced. The next step is preventing scorpions from entering into your home. Begin inspecting your home for weak points where scorpions can enter. Don’t let their size fool you. They can fit through rather tight spaces. Windows and doors need to be fully secured and in the proper state to keep pests out. Look for holes, or gaps around your home and seal them with caulking glue. Another suggestion is to install a metal screen over attic and dryer vents to prevent scorpions from climbing inside your home.
Scorpion Inspections, Control & More in Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Timberwood Park, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, New Braunfels, Selma, Live Oak, Converse, Universal City, Cibolo, Seguin, New Berlin, St Hedwig, Adkins, La Vernia, Elmendorf, Losoya, Von Ormy, Macdona & San Antonio, Texas
After you have secured and cleaned around your home, it’s the pest control specialists turn to do our part. If you’re having a scorpion problem, let our pest control specialists know so we can use the proper treatment. If you need help controlling pests, including scorpions, contact A Five Star Termite & Pest Control today!
