Tips to Help Prevent Scorpions

Just like us in the winter, scorpions like to head indoors where it’s warm. In the Las Vegas area, we have 25 different scorpion species including the Bark scorpion — the most venomous scorpion in the country. These pests are tiny, they can squeeze through an opening as small as a paper clip. And when they sting, they can cause your blood pressure to rise and cause an increase in your heart rate. Pest-proofing your home against these insects can be difficult which is why we’ve created this list of tips to help prevent scorpions from invading your home this winter.

Types of Scorpions in Las Vegas

While there are 25 different species residing in Las Vegas, the following 2 are the most common species you might encounter.

• Bark Scorpions: Like mentioned above, this scorpion is the most venomous in North America. These scorpions are typically tan in color, they have a thin tail with a curved stinger and they are about 2 to 3 inches in length. Because of their small size, they can easily gain access into homes. They are the only type of scorpion that can climb vertically. Bark scorpions do not burrow but instead rest under woodpiles, rocks, and other debris.
• Desert Hairy Scorpion: On top of this scorpion being really scary looking, it’s also very aggressive. Desert Hairy Scorpions are typically yellow with a dark top and are covered with fine brown hairs. They also have pincers. These scorpions average about 5.5 inches in length — making them one of the largest scorpions species around. In fact, they are large enough to eat lizards. Desert Hairy scorpions prefer to burrow.

Preventing Scorpions

1. Eliminate moisture: scorpions are attracted to moisture. In fact, they can live for months on just water alone. So repair any broken and/or leaky pipes.
2. Seal: use door sweeps on the bottom of doors, weather stripping on windows, and caulking on cracks and crevices.
3. Vacuum and dust: scorpions often hide in dark undisturbed areas.
4. Eliminate debris: scorpions like to hide in rock piles, woodpiles, and other debris.
5. Eliminate scorpion’s prey including insects, spiders, and crickets.

Scorpions can leave a painful sting. Many people are often stung on their hands or feet so be aware where you reach and inspect your shoes before putting them on. We understand how having a scorpion infestation can be unnerving. Store-bought pest products typically don’t work well on scorpions, which is why we recommend contacting a professional if you believe you have scorpions living in your home. They’ll be able to use a black light inspection to determine where your infestation is and properly eliminate the problem quickly and effectively.