Scorpions are some of the scariest pests you can encounter. Between the pincers, the stinger, and the creepy-crawly legs, these venomous arachnids just look like they’re designed to inflict pain. But just how dangerous are scorpions, really? Here’s what you should know about striped bark scorpions in Tucson.

About Striped Bark Scorpions

Striped bark scorpions are one of, if not the most, commonly encountered scorpions in the U.S. It’s believed that there are between 40 and 60 unique species of scorpions residing in Arizona, but the striped bark scorpion is the most likely to venture onto your property.

Striped bark scorpions can be identified by a pair of dark stripes running down the length of their body. They are yellowish-brown in color, have an elongated stinger tipped with a venomous barb, and have a pair of crab-like pincers. These scorpions are smaller than you may think, measuring just 2½ inches on average, though this small size can lead to big problems.

Are Striped Bark Scorpions Dangerous?

Scorpions are predators that feed on a wide variety of smaller insects, reptiles, and rodents. Humans, however, aren’t on the menu and striped bark scorpions won’t deliberately attack or hunt people. However, when threatened or startled, these venomous pests will not hesitate to sting.

A sting from a striped bark scorpion is painful, akin to a sting from a wasp. But despite the agony of a striped bark scorpion sting, encounters are rarely fatal. Although reactions vary from person to person, most healthy adults will only experience localized pain and swelling at the site of injection.

Children, the elderly, and those allergic to scorpion stings are at the greatest risk of life-threatening complications. Regardless of your age or health, you should always seek medical attention if stung by a striped bark scorpion.

How To Prevent Striped Bark Scorpions

Scorpions are one pest that you don’t want crawling around your Tucson property. While they aren’t known to spread disease or damage property, that painful sting is reason enough to do everything you can to prevent them. And while you might think that these pests only hunt at ground level, it’s important to know that scorpions are skilled climbers!

Some easy ways that you can prevent striped bark scorpions on your Tucson property include:

• Reducing prey – Striped bark scorpions prey on the smaller insects on your property. By reducing the population of prey insects, you can also reduce the presence of scorpions. Clean your yard of any debris that harbor insects like leaf piles, rotting logs, and lawn clippings. Mow the grass regularly and trim up any hedges or shrubs to reduce hiding spots for prey insects.
• Eliminating hiding spots – Prey insects aren’t the only ones who like to hide on your property. Carefully remove any wooden planks, piles of stone, or stacks of wood in your yard.
• Reducing moisture – Check for any leaking spigots or pipes around your property and seal them promptly. Remove any blockages from drains and gutters to prevent water backup.
• Preventing entry – Check for any cracks or openings around doors, windows, and the foundation of your property and seal with silicone caulk. Replace any faulty weather stripping or door sweeps. Keep windows closed, even on second-floor levels, or ensure that your windows have screens installed.

If you’re experiencing striped bark scorpion troubles on your Tucson property, the best way to keep scorpions – and the pests they prey on – away is with scorpion control from Pest Friends. We offer comprehensive, eco-friendly pest solutions for homes and businesses like yours, performed by friendly and knowledgeable technicians. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.