What to do before they show up this spring

Whether you’ve lived in Arizona your whole life or have only recently moved here, the presence of scorpions is something you have to get used to. These pests are native to our state, and as much as we might want them to disappear, they aren’t going anywhere.

However, that doesn’t mean you must simply put up with them on your Tucson or Phoenix property. Scorpion season is right around the corner, and there are things you can do right now to make it less likely that these stinging pests will be an issue around your home. With this prevention information from Northwest Exterminating, you can prepare for scorpion season in Tucson and Phoenix.

scorpion outside tucson home

How to identify scorpions around your Tucson or Phoenix property

First, you need to know how to identify scorpions if they appear on your property. Three common scorpion species in Tucson and Phoenix are the desert hairy scorpion, the Arizona striped tail scorpion, and the Arizona bark scorpion.

Desert hairy scorpions

Desert hairy scorpions can be large, growing up to six inches long. They are light yellow to brown. Like all species, they have eight legs, segmented tails, and a set of large pincers. The pincers help them catch their prey, while the last segment on their tail injects venom.

Arizona striped tail scorpions

Arizona striped tail scorpions are smaller than desert hairy scorpions, growing to about two and a quarter inches long. They are pale yellow to tan in color and have a dark triangular mark between their eyes.

Arizona bark scorpions

Arizona bark scorpions are similar in size to Arizona striped tail scorpions. They are generally tan in color.

One reason it’s essential to be able to tell these predatory arachnids apart is because of their stings. Although any scorpion sting will be painful, it’s rarely fatal. However, the Arizona bark scorpion is a dangerous species and their stings can be more serious than the sting of one of the other two. Knowing which type you’re dealing with on your property will help you stay safer.

How to prevent scorpions before they show up on your property

Scorpions seek out areas that offer the food, water, and shelter they need to survive. Now is the time to make your Tucson or Phoenix property less appealing to them. Use these simple prevention strategies to reduce the chances of dealing with these pests during scorpion season.

  • Remove debris on your lawn and around your property. They are nocturnal pests that hide under rocks, wood piles, and other debris during the day.
  • Keep your lawn well-maintained, tree branches trimmed, and shrubs pruned.
  • Take care of any water leaks or moisture issues around your property. Scorpions prefer moist areas, so resolving those issues will make it less likely that they’ll stay on your property.
  • Seal cracks and crevices around your foundation. Scorpions often utilize small spaces for shelter or to gain access to the interior of your house.
  • Repair or replace torn window screens to eliminate entry points.
  • Install door sweeps and fill gaps around windows and doors to prevent scorpions from entering your house.
  • Declutter your house to eliminate hiding spots scorpions might use if they get inside.
  • Take care of moisture issues inside your house.

When you take the time now to make your home and property uninviting to scorpions, you can save yourself the time, money, and frustration of dealing with an infestation later.

What to do if you find them on your property

Whether you have a chance to implement the suggested prevention strategies or not, it’s wise to know what to do if you find scorpions on your Tucson or Phoenix property.

First, you should not try to get rid of these pests on your own. As previously discussed, they are venomous and will not hesitate to sting you if they perceive a threat.

The best way to address a scorpion problem is to contact a professional pest control company. Northwest Exterminating has been serving Arizona homes for over 30 years. We have the experience and home pest control services you need to keep your home free of these uninvited pests.

Professional exclusion service that stops scorpions & other desert-loving pests

Our Desert Guard program is a comprehensive exclusion service that protects your home from scorpions and other common Arizona pests. We’ll inspect your home to identify entry points and harborage areas, then seal areas that require sealing and install physical barriers where necessary to limit pest activity, entry, and harborage. Protect your home with the help of Northwest Exterminating! Get in touch with us today.