For many, scorpions are terrifying. Unfortunately, here is Las Vegas, they are a common guest in many homes. These pests pack a punch when they sting and hide out in the most discreet places. The most commonly found scorpion throughout the state of Texas is the striped bark scorpion. A-Tex Pest Management is here to help you identify striped bark scorpions and avoid a scorpion infestation in your home.
Striped Bark Scorpion Identification
Like most scorpions, the bark scorpion has a body made up of two segments, the cephalothorax and abdomen. The tail is considered part of the abdomen and has five segments with a stinger at the end. Scorpions are arachnids so they all have 8 legs. Bark scorpions are known to be yellow in color with two dark stripes that are lengthwise on their body. They usually grow to be 2-3 inches long, but can be much smaller as well. When it is dark out, bark scorpions are visible with the help of an ultraviolet light. They come equipped with a substance in the top layer of their exoskeleton that makes them shine bright when you have a UV light on hand.
Bark Scorpion Behavior
Scorpions are solitary creatures. Unlike many other pests, they prefer to be alone and find a dark place to hide out. They are nocturnal, so you will most likely be able to find them at night rather than daylight hours. Also, unlike other pests, baby scorpions aren’t hatched from eggs. They are born alive and will spend the first weeks of its life on its mother’s back before living on its own.
Striped Bark Scorpion Sting Pain
There is no doubt about it, if a bark scorpion stings you, you will definitely feel it. They stings are very painful, but are usually not life threatening. The only time you need to seek medical attention after a scorpion sting is when you are presenting signs of an allergy to the venom. This would include shortness of breath, vomiting, or a racing heart. Otherwise, some ice on the injury and over the counter pain medication will do the trick.
How to Prevent Scorpions from Getting in Your House & Bed
There are several steps you can take to eliminate scorpions from your property. Some of those preventative tips include:
• Remove Cricket Food Source– A favorite dish for scorpions is the cricket. If you have an abundance of crickets around your home, you will be more prone to scorpions. Get rid of crickets to keep scorpions away.
• Seal Off Entry Points– Like with other pests, it doesn’t take a large opening for scorpions to gain access into your home. Seal any cracks and holes that allow scorpions to get into your home.
• Don’t Supply Scorpions With Water– If there is a leaky pipe or a wet towel left on the floor, it can attract scorpions. They are always on the hunt for a water source and will stop at nothing to find one. If you have leaky pipes, fix them.
• Keep Landscaping Trimmed– Overgrown landscaping makes for the perfect hiding place for bark scorpions. Clean up any logs or loose wood and trim the bushes and trees on your property.
Scorpion Pest Inspections, Control & More in Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville, Cedar Park & Austin Texas
If you have a scorpion problem at your house, don’t hesitate to call the expert pest professionals at A-Tex Pest Management to take care of the problem for you. Call us today!
