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!