While most scorpions in the US aren’t lethal to humans, stings can cause long-lasting pain, nausea and vomiting, and other symptoms. Children and the elderly may require medical treatment from the effects of a sting. If you’re uncertain whether you’ve been stung by a lethal variety, it’s always best to seek medical attention. While there are 70 species in the United States, there are a few common ones California residents are most likely to see.
Common California Scorpions
Scorpions reside in arid regions in the southwestern United States and can live for months without food if water is available. These conditions make urban homes in California a hot spot. While many call scorpion stings a “bite,” scorpions use their stingers, similar to wasps, to inject insect prey with their venom before consuming it. People are unlikely to be stung, but it can happen by accident, or the scorpion might sting if it feels threatened.
Common California species include:
- Striped Tail Scorpions - Tan with dark-colored stripes that run the length of their stingers; this species only grows to about 2 ½ inches long.
- Arizona Hairy Scorpion - Also known as the Giant Desert Hairy Scorpion, these arachnids have long stingers, wide bodies, and are usually tan with dark segments on their backs. They also have distinct hairs on their claws and stingers and can range from 4 to 7 inches in length.
- California Common Scorpion - Can range from light tan to dark brown with reddish claws and tails. They grow from 2 to 3 inches long.
These variations do not have lethal stings, but they can leave painful, radiating spots that last up to three days.
Scorpions are great exterminators themselves, but it’s understandable not to want to risk a sting. Fortunately, there are a few ways to reduce the chances of one making it indoors and into your shoes.
How To Prevent Scorpions From Coming Indoors
Preventing scorpion intruders is very similar to controlling other pests like rodents and spiders. Much of what it takes to keep them outside involves maintaining your home and eliminating hiding spots. Try these prevention tips to keep scorpions away:
Make sure doors, windows, and garages correctly seal. If you can see the light streaming in from under the garage door, it needs to be fixed.
- Maintain screens to make sure there are no holes.
- Fill any cracks, crevices, or holes around the home’s exterior with silicon-based caulk.
- Eliminate any source of standing water. Fix broken and leaking pipes if necessary.
- Keep outdoor lights off at night to prevent attracting scorpion prey.
- Don’t keep woodpiles and other hiding spots close to the house. This includes stones, piles of debris and leaves, and trash.
Keeping a home and lawn well-maintained is an excellent start for general pest prevention; however, dealing with an existing population or getting started on prevention may require professional help.
A Step Above Pest Control & Termite Can Protect Your LA Home
The Southern California climate makes the perfect conditions for scorpions to thrive. Keeping rocks or other decorations for them to hide under only makes your home more of a target. For advice on eliminating the risks or for help dealing with a current problem, A Step Above Pest Control & Termite is a phone call away. Since 1996, we’ve been serving the Los Angeles community, and we want to continue to keep you safe. Call us today, or visit us online for a free estimate.