Scorpion Removal – Tricks and Tips
Most scorpions in the U.S. are found in the Southwest regions. They come in many sizes and colors, but are usually pale gold or tan and do not grow larger than a few inches long. They are commonly found in newer homes, especially ones built on the outskirts of metropolitan areas. Vegetation around these homes is typically less developed than established neighborhoods. Also, scorpion’s habitats are often disturbed during new construction, so their search for new shelter can drive them into your home.
There are 90 species of scorpions in the United States but only one, the Arizona bark scorpion, has venom deadly enough to kill a human. This species is usually yellow-brown and less than three inches long. Even though most scorpion stings are not deadly, their sting is still very painful, so it is best to avoid them.
What do scorpions eat and how do they behave?
Being close relatives of ticks and spiders, scorpions are carnivores. They are fierce hunters, so they can sting their victims and inject venom to kill their prey. The prey is ambushed before it is killed. The sting is very painful, but to humans, it is usually harmless. When a scorpion stings you, you need to call your local poison center or go to the hospital for getting treatment. Their victims are usually insects, arthropods, and small invertebrates. Because they can slow down their metabolism as an adaptation to living in harsh environments, some species can live with just one insect eaten throughout the year.
At Home Ways to Kill Scorpions
- Spider Spray – Scorpions are from the same family as spiders, and so they are killed by many of the same poisons. Any spider sprays available at the grocery store can kill an individual scorpion. But be careful, as they may be toxic to pets.
- Shoes and Knives – Despite their strength, you can squish scorpions or pierce their outer shell. But keep in mind that doing so often means that you have to go very close to it. You may want to consider investing in a brick.
- Boric Acid/Borax – Boric Acid, and to a lesser extent Borax, are two natural chemicals that can be sprayed or placed on scorpions and will eventually kill them. However, the process is somewhat slow, as they dehydrate the scorpions, but are not toxic. The scorpion would likely be able to sting for a while, although it will eventually die. You can also try diatomaceous earth, which also gives them little cuts.
- Stick Your Cat At It – Cats are excellent at killing scorpions, although you do have to be careful as some cats can get stung and possibly hurt. If you have a pet chicken, many chickens find scorpions to be delicious.
Scorpion Control
Prevention and Exclusion
Scorpions may invade structures and crawl under any object that provides protection. Since gaps around doors are a major entryway for these occasional invaders, seal up gaps indoors with weather stripping. Bark Scorpions have been known to climb into the tiniest of cracks. Plug up gaps around wires and pipes. Remove any clutter inside and clean up to eliminate any possible hiding places for scorpions. Since scorpions become active in the early spring, use exclusion methods during the fall and winter months.
Scorpions can not climb on clean glass. Place wide- mouth jars under tables and crib legs, if this poses a problem of potential broken glass, apply petroleum jelly on the legs.
- Remove outdoor harborages e.g. piles of trash, stones, boards, firewood on the ground and the landscape timbers.
- Prune shrubs to expose trunk and ground around the plant
- Remove leaf litter, mulch and other organic debris
- Points of entry into buildings, e.g. siding, windows, doors, pipes and wires, should be sealed.
- Employ tight fitting screens
- Use weather stripping around door, windows, and vents.
- Repair leaky air conditioners
7 WAYS TO PREVENT SCORPIONS FROM LIVING IN & AROUND YOUR HOME
- Keep piles of wood at least 30 feet away from your home.
- Eliminate standing water.
- Keep mulch and yard debris leveled and clear to make sure scorpions cannot bury themselves and make a home.
- Seal holes and spaces beneath doors and floors. Some scorpions can fit anywhere a credit card can fit.
- Replace your outside light with a yellow bulb to prevent insects from coming up to the house.
- Check dark places on a regular basis.
- Control any pest that may have access to your home. Crickets, roaches, ants and other insects are a tasty treat for scorpions.
With no insects coming up to the house at night, scorpions will be less attracted to finding a meal near your home.