Scorpions are nocturnal, predatory animals that feed on a variety of insects, spiders, centipedes, and other scorpions. Of the 70 or so species found in North America, only one, the bark scorpion, is considered dangerous to people.
Outdoors during the day, scorpions hide in burrows or debris, under wood, stones, or tree bark, and under floors of buildings in crawl spaces. Indoors scorpions may be found in cracks and crevices of woodwork, behind baseboards, in closets and attics, and inside walls. Scorpions gain entry into buildings through poorly sealed doors and windows, cracks in foundations, attic vents that are not properly screened, and through plumbing and other openings.
The effect of a sting depends primarily on the species of scorpion involved. The sting of scorpions in Vaejovis and Hadrurus genera is usually no more serious than stings of ants, bees, or wasps, unless a person has an allergic reaction. Normal reactions include an immediate intense, localized, burning sensation, with little redness or swelling; symptoms usually subside after about 30 minutes.
Scorpions can enter buildings through openings |
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around plumbing fixtures and loose-fitting doors and windows, and cracks in foundations and walls. Outdoor lights attract insects and thus the scorpions that feed on insects. Yellow outdoor lighting is less attractive to insects and is recommended in areas where scorpions are prevalent. The first strategy for control is to modify the area surrounding a house. Clean the yard by removing all trash, logs, boards, stones, bricks, and other objects from around the foundation of the home. Prune overhanging tree branches away from the house because they can provide a path to the roof for scorpions. Do not store firewood inside the house; bring in only wood to be directly placed on the fire, and check for scorpions before bringing it inside. Install weatherstripping around loose-fitting doors and windows. Caulk around roof eaves, pipes, and any other cracks that allow entrance into the home. Make sure window screens fit tightly in the window frame and keep them in good repair.
Pesticides are not always effective against scorpions because they hide in cracks and crevices during daylight hours. Adult scorpions are more difficult to kill with pesticides because of their larger body size and thicker cuticle.
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