How Dangerous Are Montgomery Scorpions?

If you were raised on TV and movies, you may think that all scorpions are dangerous creatures that only need to sting you once to kill you. Although this is true in some parts of the world, scorpions here in Montgomery are a bit different. This isn’t to say that they aren’t dangerous, but just that it’s rare for one of their stings to be lethal. To help you better understand scorpions and the threats they pose to homeowners, here is everything you need to know.

Common Texas Scorpions

Texas is home to around 20 species of scorpions. Of all of these species, the striped bark scorpion is by far the most common home invader. These should not be confused with Arizona bark scorpions which have stings that are known to be lethal. Fortunately, Arizona bark scorpions are extremely uncommon here in Texas, and can only be found around arid and desert landscapes.

Striped bark scorpions are typically tan to light brown in color, and have two dark stripes that run down the length of their bodies. When outside, scorpions will hide beneath rocks, rubbish, and boards. One of the scorpions' favorite places to hide is inside mulch. By their nature, scorpions are nocturnal pests. This means they are more likely to be found moving about at night time. Finally, all scorpions are equipped with eight legs and a menacing segmented tail with a stinger at its end.

How Painful Is A Sting From A Scorpion?

Most species of scorpion here in Texas look scarier than they actually are. With the striped bark scorpion, in particular, their sting hurts just about as much as a bee sting does. Common symptoms of a scorpion sting include:

• Pain

• Tingling or numbness around area of the sting

• Swelling around the sting zone

Other less common symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing

• Dribbling or drooling from the mouth

• Muscle spasms

• Sweating 

• Unusual movements

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Accelerated heart rate

• Irregular heartbeat

• Restlessness

• High blood pressure

How severe your reaction is depends on two things: the type of scorpion that stung you, and whether or not you are allergic to the venom. If you do not know whether or not you have an allergy to scorpion venom, consult with your doctor. They can perform some simple tests and help you understand your risk.

Some Ways You Can Prevent Scorpions

Scorpions most commonly enter into homes for one or two reasons. Either they are running from inclement weather, construction, or another form of danger, or they are hunting insects. The best way you can prevent scorpions from entering your home is to seal up gaps and cracks, and then eliminate attractants. Here are some practical ways you can do just that.

• Use a caulking gun or some liquid cement to fill in gaps and cracks in the exterior of your home.

• Keep your yard clear of clutter and debris.

• Make sure all of your window and door screens are rip and tear-free.

• Check your door sweeps and make sure they are all in good working order.

• Keep non-screened doors and windows closed as much as possible.

• Turn outside lights off when it gets dark out or invest in insect-resistant (yellow) bulbs.

• Clean your home regularly and keep clutter to a minimum.

How To Eliminate Scorpions

If you have spotted scorpions inside your Montgomery home, there is really only one thing you can do, and that is to get the professionals involved. At Bill Clark Pest Control, we have safe and effective ways to quickly remove scorpions from homes. We even have long-lasting pest control solutions to prevent scorpions (and the insects they invade to hunt) from getting inside. Whatever you are looking for in regards to pest control, we are confident we have the right option for you.

Contact our team today to schedule a quality inspection for your Montgomery home and property.