Here in AZ, we enjoy fun in the sun all year round. But, the hot and dry climate isn’t just favored by humans. Scorpions also love the heat, and there are dozens of species native to our area. While most species of scorpion pose no danger to us, that doesn’t make a scorpion encounter any less frightening. Scorpions in and around your home may be a danger to your family, and if you’re dealing with a scorpion problem at work, they can put a severe damper on your business.

Fortunately, if you’re wondering how to get rid of scorpions, you’re in the right place. Today, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to get rid of the scorpions crawling around Gilbert, AZ so you can protect your home and family from these invasive creatures.

When kinds of scorpions live in the Valley?

Arizona is home to dozens of different native scorpion species. While all scorpions pack toxic venom in their stingers for attacking prey, their venom isn’t toxic enough to pose a danger to humans in some cases. The exception is the Arizona bark scorpion, whose potent venom results in an extremely painful sting. There are other species that live in the area but are less likely to invade your home, such as the giant hairy scorpion and yellow ground scorpion can also be painful if they sting you.

Arizona bark scorpions are among the most common in the area, and they like to take up residence in homes when given the opportunity. Scorpions prefer to live under rocks, woodpiles, or in underground burrows, but they can easily venture into your home if a small opening exists. They are excellent climbers and use this skill to scale walls and ceilings. Arizona bark scorpions are nocturnal, hunting for crickets, spiders, cockroaches, other small or medium-sized insects, and even other scorpions. Once they enter your home, they seek out dark areas with higher levels of moisture. This is why you’ll find a scorpion hiding out in your bathtub or basement. Because they prefer to be hidden in the dark, you might not know that scorpions are living in your home until you step on one.

While it isn’t uncommon to encounter these creatures year-round, scorpions are most active in the summer months. During this time, the climate is most favorable to scorpions, and it also coincides with the end of mating season, when scorpions are giving birth to their scorplings.

How can I keep scorpions out of my home?

If you encounter a scorpion in your home, it’s there because it is searching for more favorable conditions to hunt and live. Many homes offer these favorable conditions, so the best ways to prevent scorpions is to keep them from getting into your home in the first place. Installing weather stripping along windows and doors, addressing any other insect or pest problems you have in the home, and ensuring your basement is cool and dry are easy steps that may help prevent scorpions from getting into your home. Scorpions can squeeze through an opening as small as ¼ inch wide! Be sure to seal off visible openings and repair or replace old dryer vents, window screening, and broken windows or doors—Trim vegetation, including tree branches that are touching your home. Scorpions are known to climb trees and can use branches as natural bridges to crawl onto your house and into your home.

What should I do if I find a scorpion in my home?

Since many scorpion species look incredibly similar, it can be difficult for the average person to identify the type of scorpion they’re dealing with, and how dangerous the creature may be. Do not attempt to kill them or get rid of them on your own. Scorpions can sting with potent venom, which can cause pain and adverse health effects. Should you find a scorpion, or multiple scorpions in your home, the safest choice is to call the specialists at SOS Exterminating.

How can SOS Exterminating get rid of and prevent scorpions in my home?

SOS Exterminating can seal your home against scorpion activity with our Scorpion Exclusion Service. Call us or fill out the contact form on this page to set up a free scorpion inspection at your home!