Scorpion Control: Focus on the Striped Bark Scorpion

The area serviced by BugZout Pest Control, which includes Canon City, Florence, Penrose, Westcliffe, Salida, and surrounding Fremont, Custer, and Chaffee counties, is home to three main types of scorpions. These are the Striped Bark Scorpion, the Desert Hairy Scorpion, and the Northern Scorpion. Of these, the Striped Bark Scorpion is the most commonly found inside homes, as it has a higher tendency to seek shelter in residential areas.

Understanding Scorpions in Our Region

Scorpions are ancient arachnids known for their resilience and adaptability. While all scorpions pose a potential threat due to their venomous sting, the three species in our region vary in behavior and habitat preferences. The Striped Bark Scorpion, in particular, is notorious for its ability to squeeze through tiny crevices and invade homes, especially during the hotter months. This species is light brown to yellowish in color, with two dark stripes running down its back, making it easily identifiable.

The Desert Hairy Scorpion, on the other hand, is larger and tends to stay outdoors, preferring the dry, arid climates. It is less likely to invade homes but can be found near outdoor structures. The Northern Scorpion, while also present, typically stays in natural environments such as rock piles or under debris, making it less of a concern for indoor infestations.

The Striped Bark Scorpion: A Persistent Invader

The Striped Bark Scorpion is the primary focus of most pest control efforts because it actively seeks entry into homes. It can climb vertical surfaces and squeeze through gaps as small as a quarter of an inch. These scorpions are nocturnal, making them difficult to spot during the day. They hunt insects, spiders, and other small prey, often drawn toward homes due to the abundance of food sources.

Once inside, they can hide in a variety of places, such as shoes, closets, and beneath furniture. Their sting is painful and can cause symptoms like swelling, numbness, and localized pain, though it is rarely life-threatening. Still, for individuals sensitive to insect stings, a Striped Bark Scorpion’s venom can cause severe reactions, making prevention and control essential.

Prevention Methods: Turn Off Outdoor Lights

One of the most effective ways to prevent scorpions, particularly the Striped Bark Scorpion, from nesting close to your home is by turning off unnecessary outdoor lights, especially those positioned against the house. Scorpions are opportunistic hunters and will follow their prey wherever it leads them. Outdoor lights attract insects such as moths and beetles, which in turn attract scorpions looking for an easy meal.

By reducing light near the exterior of your home, you decrease the chances of scorpions being drawn toward your property. If outdoor lighting is essential for security reasons, consider using yellow bug lights, which are less attractive to insects. Additionally, sealing cracks and gaps in walls, doors, and windows can further reduce the likelihood of scorpions gaining entry.

The Resilient Scorpion: Why Regular Treatments Are Crucial

Scorpions, especially the Striped Bark variety, are hardy creatures. Their thick exoskeletons provide them with protection against many environmental factors, including chemical treatments. While one treatment may be effective at killing existing scorpions, regular treatments are required to maintain control. This is because scorpions can survive for extended periods without food or water, making them more resilient to short-term treatment efforts.

Even during the winter months, when scorpions are less active, it’s essential to continue treatments. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that scorpions are only a problem in the summer, but these pests can seek shelter inside homes during colder seasons. Without consistent pest control measures, it’s common for scorpions to re-emerge in spring, sometimes in larger numbers than before.

At BugZout Pest Control, we recommend monthly or bi-monthly treatments, even during the colder months, to ensure that scorpions are kept at bay year-round. While our treatments are highly effective, it’s important to note that the occasional scorpion may still find its way inside. These pests are incredibly tough, with thick exoskeletons that allow them to withstand adverse conditions, including some pest control products. However, with proper treatment intervals, the number of scorpions seen inside should be drastically reduced.

Scorpion Habitat: Why They Nest Near Homes

In addition to outdoor lights attracting prey, scorpions tend to nest near homes for other reasons as well. These include:

Moisture sources: Scorpions, like many pests, are drawn to areas with water. Leaky hoses, sprinklers, or pet water bowls can attract insects, which in turn attract scorpions.
Clutter and debris: Woodpiles, rocks, and other debris create the perfect hiding spots for scorpions. Keeping your yard free of clutter and storing firewood away from your home can help reduce scorpion activity.
Gaps and cracks: Homes with poor sealing or gaps in foundations, windows, or doors provide easy entry points for scorpions. Sealing these areas is essential for keeping them out.

Professional Scorpion Control: What to Expect

BugZout Pest Control specializes in scorpion removal and prevention. Our process begins with a thorough inspection of your property to identify potential entry points and nesting areas. We then apply a series of treatments designed to target scorpions and the insects they feed on, creating a protective barrier around your home.

For best results, we recommend continued pest control treatments, as scorpions are persistent pests. Regular maintenance ensures that any scorpions entering your property are quickly eliminated before they have a chance to breed or establish nests. Without consistent treatments, scorpions are likely to return, as they can travel long distances in search of food and shelter.

The Need for Long-Term Control

Due to their resilience, scorpions require more than just a one-time treatment. While you may see immediate results after the first application, scorpions have long lifespans and can go months without food, allowing them to hide and re-emerge when conditions are favorable. That’s why our integrated pest management plan involves treating your home at regular intervals, ensuring that scorpions are unable to repopulate.

Even with professional treatments, it’s possible that one or two scorpions may still find their way inside. These pests are incredibly tough and resourceful, and while treatments can significantly reduce their numbers, total eradication can be difficult due to their thick exoskeletons and ability to survive harsh conditions.

Scorpion Infestation: What to Do

If you suspect a scorpion infestation in or around your home, contact BugZout Pest Control immediately. We will conduct a full inspection to locate the infestation and implement a customized treatment plan. In addition to controlling scorpions, we also target other pests such as spiders and insects that scorpions feed on, breaking the food chain and reducing the overall pest population around your home.

By partnering with BugZout, you can rest assured that your scorpion problem will be addressed quickly and effectively. Our team of experts uses safe, environmentally friendly products that are tough on scorpions but safe for your family and pets.

Conclusion

The Striped Bark Scorpion may be a hardy invader, but with the right prevention techniques and regular professional pest control, you can minimize the chances of encountering them inside your home. By keeping unnecessary lights off, sealing entry points, and maintaining a regular treatment schedule, you can protect your property from these persistent pests.

Let BugZout Pest Control help you take control of your scorpion problem. With our expertise and commitment to effective, long-term solutions, we’ll ensure that your home stays scorpion-free all year round.

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Scorpion Control & Striped Bark Scorpion Removal | BugZout Pest Control

Learn about scorpions, including Striped Bark Scorpions, and how BugZout Pest Control offers effective scorpion removal and prevention. Keep your home scorpion-free with safe treatments and expert advice. Serving Canon City, Florence, Penrose, Westcliffe, Salida, and surrounding areas.