Scorpion Control

Few creepy-crawlies invoke as much fear in people as the scorpion. Authors and moviemakers have sensationalized much of the danger over the years, but scorpions are tough, resilient critters, and not ones to be trifled with. Outfitted with an armored exoskeleton, strong pinchers, and (of course) their ubiquitous curled tail and stinger, scorpions are well equipped for self-defense and survival. Like cockroaches, they even have the ability to reflect radiation, making them one of a handful of “last man standing” species. Paleontologists believe that some form of scorpion has roamed the earth for as much as 450 million years, based on fossils from the Carboniferous Period. They likely started as ocean dwellers, complete with gills and more prodigious lobster-like claws, allowing them to cling to rocks on the ocean floor. 

Of the species that inhabit the United States, only the Arizona Bark Scorpion is considered life-threatening to humans. Like bee stings, though, any scorpion’s venom can cause a fatal reaction to those who are allergic. Scorpion venom contains a neurotoxin that effectively shuts down the central nervous system of its victim. The female scorpion can reproduce several times each year, with each brood consisting of 25-35 young, each of which is able to continue the reproduction cycle within about two weeks.

If your dog, cat, or other small pet is stung by a scorpion, be sure to immediately seek veterinary attention.

Signs to look for:

• Limping
• Watering/dilated and eyes
• Excessive drooling
• Trembling or shaking
• Difficulty breathing
• Collapse 

The smaller the animal, the more dangerous a scorpion sting can be. The neurotoxins in the venom can exacerbate any respiratory and circulatory issues that your pet may already suffer from. 

Georgia hosts two species of scorpions, the Southern Devil Scorpion (aka, the Southern Stripeless Scorpion/Plain Eastern Stripeless Scorpion), and the Striped Bark Scorpion, which is the most common species found in the US.Scorpions are primarily nocturnal, preferring moist surroundings and, like most pests, typically enter your home through crevices, holes, or other breaches in the foundation or walls. Being boneless, they can squeeze their bodies through amazingly small cracks and gaps to get where they want to go. Scorpions need only five things to set up permanent residence in your home:

• Access
• Darkness
• Moisture
• Food
• Shelter

Because they are seldom found in lighted areas, it often requires specialized UV lights to find scorpion nests. (Scorpions are phosphorescent under UV light, a fact which remains scientifically unexplained.)

It’s not a good idea to try to deal with a scorpion infestation on your own, as even a dead scorpion can sting and inject venom. Your best, and safest, option to rid your property of scorpions is to contact a trained professional, one with the equipment and experience to properly deal with the problem safely and permanently. If you suspect that scorpions have made their way into your home, contact Abe’s Pest Control to eliminate them quickly and efficiently. At Abe’s, your satisfaction is our priority. Call today for a free estimate.