3 common types of scorpions in Las Vegas

You often hear about scorpions roaming the deserts of Arizona and southern California, but many call Las Vegas home too. Of the 1,500+ known scorpion species in existence, over 70 can be found here in the United States. But no matter the species, scorpions have some characteristics that are shared by all. Their tough exoskeletons and pair of pincers help to protect them from predators in the wild. Additionally, all types of scorpions have segmented bodies and four pairs of legs, including the most commonly found scorpions in Las Vegas, Nevada. We’ll take a deeper look at three such species found in homes and commercial businesses around here.

1. Bark scorpion

Shakespeare may have been referring to a fiery, Athenian woman when he said, “Though she be but little, she is fierce,” but the adage just happens to fit the bark scorpion perfectly too. As the most venomous scorpion in North America, the bark scorpion presents a significant threat to the residents of Las Vegas, Nevada.

How to identify a bark scorpion

The bark scorpion is a tan or yellowish pest averaging three inches in length. Its small body is made up of two parts, the abdomen (which includes the stinging tail) and the cephalothorax, a fusion of the head and thorax. The bark scorpion has eight legs in addition to its pair of pincers. Generally, bark scorpions hold their tails curled to the side, unlike other types of scorpions that hold them above the body. Learn more bark scorpion facts here.

Where are bark scorpions found?

Because bark scorpions can climb, they can be found in many various places, or at least at various levels. They prefer cool, moist environments, so they are often found hiding under rocks or burrowed beneath tree bark. Sometimes these habitats do not provide enough shelter from the warm temperatures of Las Vegas, and the scorpions are driven to the air-conditioned indoors.

With their marked climbing abilities, they have no trouble scaling vertical walls to make their way in. Once they get inside homes and businesses, bark scorpions often navigate toward dark closets or near sinks and bathtubs. Dark, damp basements and equipment storage areas may also provide an ideal environment for the pests.

What do bark scorpions eat?

As nocturnal creatures, you will not often find bark scorpions to be active during the day. They prefer to hunt at night, giving them protection from extreme heat. Bark scorpions can become vicious when hunting. They lie in wait and use the small hairs on their legs and underside to sense their prey when it comes near. Their pincers, or pedipalps, are fairly weak, so the scorpions must rely on the potent venom from their barbed tail to paralyze the prey before grabbing it with their pincers. Bark scorpions primarily eat cockroaches, spiders, moths, and other similar invertebrates.

Bark scorpion sting

The bark scorpion is the most venomous scorpion in North America, so its stings should not be taken lightly. Bark scorpions have especially poor eyesight, so when they feel threatened, they attack. Though they don’t specifically seek out humans, children and the elderly are at an increased risk of a severe reaction to a bark scorpion sting. Adverse reactions may vary based on the victim, and more severe symptoms may require medical attention. The site of the sting often swells, accompanied by severe pain. Affected persons can experience numbness, difficulty breathing, convulsions, and even foaming at the mouth.

2. Emperor scorpion

This regal arthropod is actually a popular exotic pet. Though many people are scared of them due to their dark color and large size, emperor scorpions are relatively non-threatening, to humans at least.

How to identify an emperor scorpion

The emperor scorpion comes in between the bark and desert hairy scorpions at a length of eight inches. Though it is not the longest scorpion, it is the largest, commonly weighing up to 30 grams. Their shiny, black bodies blend in well amongst the forest debris and leaves in which they often reside. As a communal species, emperor scorpions are found living in large numbers.

What do emperor scorpions eat?

Insects make up the primary food group of an emperor scorpion’s diet. Specifically, these scorpions often feed on termites and can often be found living in termite mounds. As avid termite hunters, we thank them for their help.

Emperor scorpion sting

Adult scorpions do not often sting as a method of killing their prey or otherwise. When they do sting in defense, they sometimes will not even inject venom. Like other species, the emperor scorpion has poor eyesight, so it can be quick on the defense when it senses a potential threat. Luckily, most people are not affected by emperor scorpion venom, so the only danger to humans is a painful pinch.

3. Desert hairy scorpion

This furry pincher looks much more menacing than it is, unless, of course, you’re its next meal or a male desert hairy scorpion. Occasionally, the female desert hairy scorpion will eat her mate after mating.

How to identify a desert hairy scorpion

The desert hairy scorpion, named for the hairs on its tail, is the longest scorpion species found in the United States. Measuring an average of six inches in length, these scorpions are generally tan or olive green in color.

Where are desert hairy scorpions found?

Believe it or not, desert hairy scorpions are sometimes kept as pets, where they can live up to twenty years (double the life expectancy of a desert hairy scorpion in the wild). Otherwise, you might find them in abandoned burrows, crevices, or in ornamental plants. They seek shaded areas to avoid the Las Vegas sun. They may also gravitate toward cool, dark places in your home or business such as cabinets and attics.

What do hairy desert scorpions eat?

Because they are so large, desert hairy scorpions often have larger prey than other scorpion species. They are carnivorous but are not after humans. Desert hairy scorpions may go after other invertebrates of similar size or even lizards and small animals.

Desert hairy scorpion sting

Desert hairy scorpions are not aggressive and have very weak venom. Their sting resembles that of a bee, and they, like most scorpions, will only sting when provoked.

How to prevent scorpions

There are measures that you can take to prevent scorpions from entering your home or business.

  • Bark scorpions can enter a crack as small as 1/16 of an inch, to ensure that any holes or cracks are sealed. Door sweeps can also be helpful in blocking scorpion entrance.
  • Keep the grass short to make it more difficult for these pests to hide.
  • They may also hide among collections of trash, debris, and logs, so these should be kept away from Las Vegas residences and businesses.

How to get rid of scorpions in your home and business

Though they are generally shy, scorpions can be dangerous. Since you are never quite sure how you’ll react to a scorpion sting, it is best to leave scorpion control to the experts. We have the proper training and equipment to effectively remove scorpions from your property.
If you’re seeing scorpions around your home or business in Las Vegas, give Rentokil a call or contact us online. Our pest specialists can take care of your scorpion problem and give you peace of mind.

The Difference Between Mouse & Rat Problems

Rodents are two of the most common pest problems. Rats and mice are alike in the fact that they both have incisors that never stop growing. They also both can carry and spread diseases. However, rats and mice are different in many ways as well. Because they both can be a danger for you and your family, it’s important to learn how to identify rats and mice. At Western Exterminator of Las Vegas, our team wants to ensure our customers are aware of the pest threats they may face. Knowing the differences between mouse and rat problems can help. Our experts have compiled all the information you need to know—read on to learn more.

7 Facts About Rats

Rats are typically bigger and occasionally more aggressive than mice. Here’s what else you need to know:

  • Rats have thicker bodies and tails that are shorter than the length of their body.
  • They possess small hairy ears and larger feet.
  • They weigh anywhere from 150 to 300 grams.
  • Rat droppings are banana-shaped and much bigger than mice droppings at 10–20 mm long.
  • Rats produce 3–6 litters a year with up to 10 pups in each litter.
  • Rats are adventurous, omnivorous eaters who will feed on a variety of grains and meats.
  • They forage overnight and nest in garages, trees, and basements.

How do Mice Differ From Rats?

Mice are obviously smaller than rats, but they have other differences as well:

  • The house mouse is usually just 2–4 inches long.
  • Mice have larger ears and a longer tail compared to its body length.
  • Mice are often gray or brown in color, with a lighter shade or white color on their bellies.
  • Mice droppings have pointed ends and are just 1–2 mm long.
  • Most mice feed on fruits, seeds, grains, and occasionally meat.
  • They produce 5–10 litters a year with up to 14 mice in each litter.
  • Mice forage at dusk and nest in attics, garages, basements, and more.

Dangers of Rodents

Rats and mice are similar in that they both can pose a threat to the safety of you and your family with their activities. Rodents are infamous for their ability to carry and spread a number of potentially dangerous diseases. They also can trigger allergies in people. A rodent problem can be a mess to clean up due to the amount of droppings and urine left behind. Lastly, they can cause significant damage to your home. Both mice and rats will chew through insulation, cardboard, wood, and electrical wiring. Due to this reason alone, always contact your local rodent exterminator for help with rat or mouse problems.

Rats and Mice in Las Vegas

The bottom line is that you don’t want rats or mice infesting your property. They both can be dangerous and destructive. As soon as you spot the signs of an infestation, it’s time to contact the rodent exterminators at Western Exterminator of Las Vegas.

What Attracts Termites to Your Home?

Mulch is something that may bring termites to your yard. Western Exterminator of Las Vegas.Termites are active right now, making it the best time to know what may attract them to your property. Damage caused by termites often goes unnoticed, as they can be tricky to spot until you have a serious infestation. For that reason, it’s important to do everything you can to prevent a termite problem from starting in the first place. The first step to preventing termites is to know what actions may be attracting them to your property to begin with. The team at Rentokil is here to share their expert info on actions that could be inviting termites to your home–read on to learn more.

3 Things That May Attract Termites

  1. Firewood or wood piles: Many homeowners keep firewood stacked against their home or on the stoop for easy access. This is appealing to termites and can draw them toward a home and provide a point of entry. To avoid this, always store wood piles at least 20 feet away from the house, and 5 inches off the ground. Also avoid leaving stumps or logs in the yard, especially those that are in decay.
  2. Faulty or improper drainage: Moisture problems will attract subterranean termites, the most destructive species nationwide. Ensure you do not have any clogged gutters. Divert rainwater away from the foundation of your property with down-spout extenders.
  3. Mulch: Any mulch near your property could serve as a source of food for termites. Mulch retains moisture, which attracts termites. Try to minimize the usage of mulch or at least keep it 15 inches away from the foundation of your home or property.

Other Ways to Prevent Termites

In general, it’s best to get a regular inspection from a professional pest control company when you want to avoid termites. In addition, stay on top of home repairs: fix any damaged roofing, and seal any cracks or crevices in your property. Keep your garden neat, trim back trees and bushes away from the foundation of your home, and regularly inspect any outdoor furniture, porches, or decks.

Keeping Termites Away

Termites are the number one most destructive pest in the nation. For that reason, it’s essential for all homeowners in the Henderson area to stay proactive about preventative maintenance. For more information on what attracts termites to your home or how to prevent them, contact the termite exterminators at Rentokil today!

What Pests Trigger Springtime Allergies?

Cockroaches can cause allergies in Henderson and Las Vegas NV - Western Exterminator of Las VegasAllergies are a fact of life in the springtime. Chances are, you or someone you know is dealing with an onslaught of allergy symptoms, from a runny nose to itchy eyes. But what if it’s more than just the weather and trees blooming that is triggering your allergies? With May being National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, the team at Rentokil is here to shine light on the dangers of allergies exacerbated by pests. Pest allergens are a result of certain types of pests in your home, making it important to know how to prevent them! Keep reading to learn how to avoid pest and springtime allergies.

Allergies Caused by Pests

Pest infestations can be dangerous for many reasons, including allergies! Cockroaches are one of the biggest contributors to allergies, especially in children. droppings, saliva, shed skins, and other parts contain allergen proteins that cause allergic reactions and can exacerbate asthma as well. Other pests that are known to cause allergic reactions include stinging insects–yellow jackets, fire ants, wasps, and more. Their sting can cause a wide range of reactions in people, from itching and hives to shortness of breath in a more severe allergic reaction*.

**If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as swelling, wheezing, dizziness, or trouble breathing, call 911 or get medical attention immediately!

How to Prevent Pest-Triggered Allergies

To avoid making your allergies even worse this season, it’s important to reduce allergens in your home as much as possible. Basic pest prevention goes a long way to eliminate these allergens:

  • Store food in sealed containers and clean kitchens on a daily basis.
  • Dispose of garbage regularly and use a tight-fitting lid.
  • Seal cracks and holes in homes, including entry points for utilities and pipes, screen doors, and windows.
  • Keep your basements and crawl spaces well-ventilated and dry!
  • Wash blankets, rugs, and bedding in hot water or get them dry-cleaned.
  • Vacuum and dust your property frequently.
  • Keep pet food sealed in a tight container and wash food bowls.

Long-Term Pest Allergy Prevention

The best way to avoid allergies from pests is to make sure you are protected against pest problems all year wrong! To keep roaches and stinging insects out, it’s best to team up with a professional exterminator. At Rentokil, we are committed to keeping our customers safe from the many dangers of pests–allergies included!

7 Natural Remedies for Bee Stings

Western Exterminator of Las Vegas provides information on all-natural home remedies to treat bee stings.Chances are, most people have been or will be stung by a bee at some point in their life. As painful and surprising as they may be at the time, stings often heal quickly and without complication. Nonetheless, it’s important to take action after being stung! While there are certainly a number of over-the-counter treatments to choose from, you don’t need to stop by the store. Luckily, there are several all-natural remedies that can work to heal a sting right at home.

Treating Bee Stings at Home

There are a number of benefits to using all-natural treatments for bee stings. That said, it’s extremely important to receive medical attention if there is a negative or allergic reaction to the sting. Thankfully, those cases are rare and most stings can be treated in the comfort of your home. Before applying any home remedy, the first step is to safely and quickly remove the stinger after being stung with your fingernail, tweezers, or the edge of a credit card. Follow up with a quick soapy water wash, and ice the stung area as needed to reduce swelling. From there, you’re ready to treat the sting to help relieve any symptoms!

7 All-Natural Bee Sting Remedies

While some of these remedies may prove to be more effective than others, some of the natural ways to relieve the symptoms of a bee sting include:

  1. Toothpaste: Dabbing a bit of toothpaste on the site of the sting has been known to neutralize honeybee venom.
  2. Baking soda: A paste comprised of baking soda and water has been reported to reduce pain, itchiness, and swelling caused by a bee sting. Simply apply a thick layer of the mixture, cover with a bandage, and let sit for at least 15 minutes before removing!
  3. Honey: An age-old home remedy for many symptoms, honey can help heal wounds, decrease itchiness, and ease pain. Cover the sting with a small amount of honey, cover, and let sit for up to an hour.
  4. Meat tenderizer: A solution of one-part meat tenderizer and four parts water has been said to break down a protein in the body that causes pain and itching.
  5. Apple cider vinegar: Soaking a sting in apple cider vinegar can help neutralize bee venom and ease pain associated with the sting.
  6. Aspirin tablet: Applying a wet aspirin tablet to the site of the sting has been known to possibly reduce redness and swelling associated with the venom.
  7. Essential oils & herbs: Aloe vera, lavender essential oil, calendula cream, tea tree oil, and witch hazel all have healing properties that may aid in treating a bee sting. When using essential oils, always mix a few drops with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.

Natural Bee Sting Treatments

In most cases, bee stings can be treated at home. Although all-natural treatments aren’t guaranteed to work for everyone, there’s a reason these home remedies have been passed down for centuries! However, when experiencing any symptoms of a more serious reaction—especially when it involves trouble breathing, hives, or dizziness—it’s essential to seek medical attention. Allergies to bee stings can form at any point in life, which is why it’s important to always properly treat a sting.

Everything You Need to Know About Centipedes in Las Vegas

House centipedes in Las Vegas NVAs gross as the sight of a centipede may be, there’s little reason to fear them. Homes in the Las Vegas valley are most likely to harbor just two types of centipedes: the desert centipede and the house centipede. While neither are known to bite people, it’s important to learn the differences between the two, their habits, and how to prevent them in your home. Although they’re generally harmless, no one wants to deal with these creepy crawlers!

All About House Centipedes

House centipedes are, true to their name, the most common type of centipede found inside of homes. Like all centipedes, they are elongated, flattened insects with one pair of legs per body segment, which differs based on species and age. Adult house centipedes have 15 pairs of legs with their last pair nearly twice the length of their body, which is typically no more than 1½ inches long and a dirty yellow color. Some of their habits and behaviors include:

  • They feed on other common household insects such as silverfish, cockroaches, and spiders.
  • They prefer to live in cool, damp places and are thus frequently found in basements, crawlspaces, and bathtubs.
  • House centipedes move extremely quickly, but are not known to be aggressive or chase after people.
  • While they are not known to bite unless directly handled or threatened, their bite can be painful but won’t cause any serious side effects.

Identifying Desert Centipedes

Unlike the house centipede, desert centipedes are dark brown and color and can appear even more frightening, as they grow to be 4 to 6 inches in length. In addition to being one of the biggest centipedes homeowners may come across, they have a distinctive dark stripe running across the segments of their body, which is why they’re often called the tiger centipede. Additionally, desert centipedes are poisonous and are known to bite when threatened. While their bite is not very serious, it still needs to receive medical attention from a professional. If these centipedes make their way inside your home, they are likely hiding out in a damp, secluded area.

Preventing Centipedes in Your Home

Thankfully, centipedes are not common household insects and can be prevented and controlled fairly easily. There are a number of ways you can actively work to keep centipedes out of your home:

  1. Reduce moisture: Staying vigilant about fixing water pipes or leaky faucets can eliminate the preferred environment of centipedes as well as other pests.
  2. Eliminate clutter: Removing hiding spots for centipedes is a reliable way of making sure they can’t hide out in your home.
  3. Seal openings: Inspect the perimeter of your home and seal any cracks, holes, or openings to keep centipedes from getting inside
  4. Control other insects: Centipedes feed on other insects in the home and will thus appear when you have other insect problems.

Professional Centipede Control in Las Vegas

Let’s face it: No one wants to come across a centipede inside their home. Despite being rather harmless, they look frightening and move at a quick speed. If you believe you have a house or desert centipede inside your Las Vegas home, call the experts at Western Exterminator. We can help keep your property free of centipedes for good!

Cockroach or Water Bug? How to Spot the Difference

American cockroach control in Las Vegas NVSome species of cockroaches, especially the American cockroach, are often mistaken for water bugs, and it’s easy to see why. Water bugs share many of the same physical characteristics as cockroaches, but there are key differences between the two insects that are important to take into account. Cockroaches are unfortunately quite common in the Las Vegas area, with four species in particular being the most common: American, brown-banded, German, and oriental cockroaches.

American Cockroaches vs. Water Bugs

American cockroaches are the type most commonly misidentified as water bugs. While both the American cockroach and the water bug are reddish-brown in color, their similarities stop there. Water bugs are typically larger than cockroaches (2 or more inches), prefer to be in the water, and are avid hunters that subdue their prey with a powerful enzyme. American cockroaches, on the other hand, will eat anything they come across and are not hunters by nature; in fact, they are known to be shy pests that will scamper and never bite people. The main difference between these two is the conclusion that cockroaches are pests that can carry diseases and germs, while water bugs are not considered to be pests.

Common Las Vegas Cockroaches

In addition to the American cockroach, there are three other types that are frequently seen in the Las Vegas area: brown-banded, German, and Oriental cockroaches. Some of their identifying characteristics and habits are as follows:

  1. Brown-banded cockroaches: True to their name, this species possess two light-colored bands across their bodies that helps identify them. They can fly, prefer warm but dry habitats, and are often found inside furniture, panties, cabinets, and more.
  2. German cockroaches: The most common type of roach, these are often light brown or tan in color and, although they have wings, do not fly. For the most part, they are active at night and hide in cracks or crevices during the day.
  3. Oriental cockroaches: This type of cockroach is nearly black in color with a shiny exterior, making them look much different from other cockroaches. Also often called water bugs, they prefer to live in sewers or other damp, dark areas.

Finding a Cockroach or Water Bug in Your House

It’s easy to see why cockroaches and water bugs are so commonly confused. That said, water bugs rarely enter homes due to their preference for water habitats, so it’s likely you have seen a cockroach. If you see one or more of either of these insects in your Las Vegas home, it may be best to call a professional pest control company who can determine whether or not you have a pest infestation. Cockroaches are pesky pests that carry a number of harmful diseases and bacteria, and water bugs have been known to bite if or when they are handled. Either way, letting a professional such as Rentokil handle the situation for you is always the best route. Give us a call today to learn more about our cockroach control methods!

Springtails: What Are They and How Do You Prevent Them?

Springtails in Las Vegas NVSpringtails are minuscule insects that are often mistaken for fleas due to their size and habit of hopping around. As their name suggests, they have a catapult-like body part on their underside known as the furcula, which enables them to jump short distances. Springtails are wingless, have a gray-purple body, and only grow to be about 1/16 of an inch long, making them notoriously difficult to spot. These tiny insects are attracted to moisture, which is why they’re most often seen in Las Vegas during the spring and summer seeking out damp environments.

How Did I Get Springtails?

In their preferred outdoor environment, springtails frequent damp soil, decaying straw, rotting leaves, and other wet environments. Over-watering your lawn or yard is a sure way to fall victim to a springtail infestation. Although they prefer to live outside, springtail bugs have been known to enter homes with moisture problems. Once inside, springtails will most often be found in basements, bathrooms, kitchen areas, attics, damp wall voids, houseplant soil, and anywhere mold or mildew is present.

Are Springtail Bugs Harmful?

There is little to no reason to fear springtails. They do not cause humans or pets any harm, and are not known to sting, bite, or transmit any diseases. Furthermore, they cause very little damage and would only perhaps cause a bit of destruction to plants inside the home. That said, springtails reproduce rapidly and a population can grow to alarmingly large numbers. Their danger lies in the fact that there can be thousands of these tiny creatures happily taking up residence in your home, making it seem like a much worse situation than it truly is.

What Can I Do to Prevent Springtails?

Luckily, preventing and getting rid of springtails is rather simple. It all comes down to eliminating their source of survival: moisture. If they do not have a damp environment to live in, these tiny bugs will die off quickly. Some of the ways you can actively reduce your chance of getting springtails inside your home include:

  • Reduce excess moisture in the home by promptly fixing any leaky faucets or pipes.
  • Check your basement, attic, or crawl spaces for standing water.
  • Don’t over-water any houseplants in your living areas.
  • Make sure to use a proper vent or fan in the bathroom to reduce humidity, and consider using a dehumidifier in damp locations.
  • Eliminate mold or mildew in or around the home in a timely fashion.

Professional Help for Springtail Removal

If your prevention methods have failed to keep springtail bugs away from your home, it may be best to contact a professional pest control company, such as Rentokil. Our experts can help eliminate springtails and keep them from ever infesting your home again!

What to Do When You Find a Scorpion in Your Home

Scorpions are very common in the southern United States, as they prefer desert climates. Because they hide in dark, cool areas, they may find the perfect residence in the attic, basement, or crawl spaces inside your home. Seeing a scorpion inside your home is not a pleasant experience, and while most aren’t dangerous, there is one to be wary of in the Las Vegas area. Bark scorpions are the most common and, unfortunately, most venomous type of scorpion in North America. If you spot any type of scorpion in your home, give the experts at Western Exterminator a call to find out how they can be removed safely and effectively.

Identifying a Bark Scorpion in the Home

Because bark scorpions are so common in the Las Vegas area, it may be likely that scorpions found in the home are of this species. They are light brown in color, grow up to 3 inches in length, and have a thin tail with a curved stinger. Bark scorpions are adept climbers, congregate in very large groups, and may be found trapped in sinks or bathtubs, climbing walls, or in a dark closet in the home. Bites are very dangerous to humans and can cause numbness, tingling, blurry vision, and twitching muscles. If you are bitten by a bark spider, it’s crucial to receive immediate medical attention.

What to Do With Scorpions Inside Your Home

No one wants scorpions scampering around in their homes. The thought of them lurking in dark, cool places in your house is enough to call a professional to check out the situation for you. The experts at Western Exterminator can help you learn how to implement some of the following prevention and elimination tips:

  1. Implement proper exclusion techniques. It’s essential to inspect and seal any holes, cracks, or crevices on the exterior of your property that may let
  2. Eliminate places scorpions may linger. Placing potted plants on stands, storing outdoor bins away from the home, eliminating yard debris, and making sure your landscaping is tidy can all help keep scorpions away.
  3. Keep a tidy environment free of food crumbs inside the home to avoid other insects. Because scorpions feed on insects, they may be attracted to homes infested with them.
  4. Remove sources of standing water and moisture. Make sure your home’s pipes and plumbing works properly without leaks, as scorpions seek out water.
  5. For scorpions already in the home, lay glue traps, carefully use pesticides, and always take caution in trying to remove them yourself. Scorpions are quick, can be dangerous, and are difficult to get rid of. It’s typically best to simply call a professional exterminator to do the hard work for you.

Professional Scorpion Prevention and Control Services

Bottom line, scorpions are one of the most dreaded pests to find inside your home. While there are certainly methods to remove them yourself and plenty of tips on preventing them in the home, sometimes it’s best to call a professional, especially if you believe the scorpions in your house to be bark scorpions. At Western Exterminator, our expert technicians have the training and experience required to get rid of scorpion infestations and keep them away for good. Give us a call today to learn more about what to do with the scorpions in your home!

10 Facts You Need to Know About the Bark Scorpion

Las Vegans are no strangers to scorpions, and most of us know about the baddest one of all: the bark scorpion! Also known as the Arizona bark scorpion, this tiny devil packs a punch as the most poisonous scorpion in North America. While bark scorpions live in infamy, there may be a couple of facts you don’t know–facts that could help you identify and even prevent these scorpions from stinging you! Rentokil is always looking for new ways to protect you and your family, so we’ve come up with a list of 10 facts you need to know about the bark scorpion.

Identify and Prevent Bark Scorpions

With effective pest control, proper identification is half the battle! Arm yourself with these facts about Arizona bark scorpions, and learn more about preventing them.

  1. They travel in packs.
    • Most scorpions prefer to be solitary–but not the bark scorpion!
    • While they can be found wandering alone, the real danger is in winter, when they hunker down in packs of twenty or thirty.
    • If you see one bark scorpion, chances are high that more are waiting just around the corner.
  2. Bark scorpions range from 7-8 cm long.
    • The biggest of the species is just barely 3 inches long!
  3. They can climb vertically.
    • It’s true. Unlike most other scorpions, bark scorpions can climb rough vertical surfaces.
  4. Bark scorpions typically hold their tails to the side.
    • The key is typically. Unlike a lot of scorpions that prefer to have their tails over their bodies, bark scorpions will frequently position their tails to one side.
  5. They give live birth.
    • Unlike most arachnids, all scorpions give birth to live babies, called scorplings.
    • Bark scorpions will give birth to 25-35 scorplings at a time, typically in early summer.
  6. They have terrible eyesight.
    • This is why scorpions prefer to walk along walls.
    • It’s also why they sting when startled–they can’t see you coming!
  7. They can live up to 6 years.
  8. They only need a hole the size of a credit card to get in.
    • You heard it! This is why adequate sealing of the space between your foundation and your home is so important.
    • Sealants are available that are made especially to keep scorpions out.
  9. They are nocturnal.
    • If you suspect a scorpion infestation, check out your home and yard at night.
    • Use a blacklight–bark scorpions (like most scorpions) glow in UV light.
  10. They’re drawn to moisture.
    • This last fact is a key component to fighting an infestation, especially in the hot summer months.
    • By cutting down on available or standing water, you can cut down on your chances of a scorpion infestation.

Professional Help for Bark Scorpions

If your yard, home, or business is infested with bark scorpions, you will definitely benefit from professional extermination services. At Rentokil, we handle everything from inspection, exclusion, and treatment–all so we can protect your home and family! Call today to learn more about our bark scorpion treatment options!