Warning Signs That Your Woodlands Home Has Termites
September 28, 2023
What early warning signs of termites do you need to know? Find out today how to identify these pests before they take over your Woodlands property.
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Although thousands of different scorpion species exist worldwide, local experts suggest that only approximately 20 types reside here in Texas. Generally, scorpions live in regions with warm and arid climates, such as those in parts of Arizona, New Mexico, California, and Texas. Reports indicate that many people in the U.S. are equally or more fearful of scorpions than spiders—another creature belonging to the arachnid class.
Scorpions are predatory arachnids that possess venom, which they deliver with a painful sting. Some of the common types of scorpion prey include insects, spiders, and some small mammals. Fortunately, the majority of scorpions that exist in this country pose minimal human health risks.
Scorpions primarily live outdoors; however, instances occur where they infiltrate homes. In most cases, they gravitate toward areas such as basements, crawlspaces, bathrooms, or laundry rooms.
Are scorpions dangerous to humans? The scorpions found in Texas may sting humans, and most individuals experience minor pain, swelling, and irritation at the site. Some people may develop more adverse allergic reactions worthy of medical attention.
In the U.S., the Arizona bark scorpion is among the most potentially dangerous species. Although fatalities rarely occur, many people have symptoms including moderate pain, numbness, vomiting, and convulsions.
Are you regularly encountering scorpions around your home? Seeking assistance from a licensed pest exterminator is strongly recommended. After contacting a properly trained and equipped team of Houston pest control professionals, they will deploy experts that understand the best strategies for ousting these potentially harmful pests and what repels scorpions.
How To Identify A Scorpion
Scorpions have an exoskeleton composed of “shell-like” chitin, eight legs, two “claw-like” pedipalps, and a barbed tail. The glands of a scorpion produce venom of varying potency used for hunting and defense.
What are the most common types of scorpions in Texas? The predominant species in this region is the striped bark scorpion (Centruroides vittatus), which usually measures between two and three inches in length and appears in shades of yellow or tan with a pair of dark bands. The striped bark scorpion has a curved tail with a stinger; however, it poses minimal health risks.
How big can scorpions get? Among the largest species in the U.S. is the Arizona hairy scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis), which may reach lengths of roughly seven inches.
What It Means If You See Scorpions Around Your Yard
As with most predatory creatures, scorpions will most likely remain in locations with ample food sources. In this case, a yard with lots of insects or spiders will attract scorpions. Striped bark scorpions also like areas with sufficient supplies of water and those with dark hiding spots.
Five Naturally Effective Scorpion Prevention Tips For Around Your Yard
Are you wondering how to keep scorpions away from your property? Consider the following five tips for preventing scorpions:
- Limit points of entry by filling crevices in the foundation, repairing torn window screens, and installing sweeps on exterior doors.
- Minimize unnecessary clutter and debris by keeping the lawn trimmed, removing weeds, and moving firewood piles away from the structure.
- Prevent standing water or excessive humidity by fixing leaky hoses, clearing gutter systems, and keeping crawlspaces properly ventilated.
- Limit the use of bright exterior lighting, which may attract flying insects, spiders, and other scorpion prey.
- Keep all trash bags outdoors in durable sealed garbage receptacles to avoid attracting insects and other prey.
Some research suggests that many scorpion species will avoid areas where they detect scents of cedar oil, peppermint oil, or lavender.
Contact The Pros For The Best Scorpion Control For Your Yard
The team of professionals with All-Safe Pest & Termite will assist Houston-area property owners that are experiencing ongoing problems with scorpions. Our qualified staff understands scorpion behavior, what attracts these creatures, and the best methods of treatment. Scorpions represent merely one of the dozens of various pests that our team will remove from the premises.
We invite you to contact our friendly staff today regarding a property inspection and estimate.
