Scorpion Extermination Pest Control Services Phoenix, Arizona
Ranked sixth in population of cities in the U.S. and with its subtropical arid climate, Phoenix Arizona is also “home” to Scorpions. Scorpion venom paralyses then kills their prey or is used for self-defense. Even small young Scorpions inject the same amount of venom as adults. Each Scorpion has its own unique venom with a different toxicity. Do not underestimate their danger—even newborn Scorpions have venom.
Scorpions are nocturnal, predatory animals that feed on a variety of insects, spiders, centipedes, and other Scorpions. Large Scorpions occasionally feed on vertebrates, such as small lizards, snakes, and mice. Most Scorpions live in warm, dry climates and many of the species found in North America occur in Arizona, adjacent areas of California, and parts of New Mexico. Of the 70 or so species found in North America, only one, the Bark Scorpion, Centruroides exilicauda (formerly called C. sculpturatus), is considered dangerous to people.
Scorpions are found in undisturbed areas of a property – closets, seldom-used shoes, or folded clothes. These most dangerous Scorpions are generally found in Phoenix because of availability of water and shade in and around a property.
Most common to Phoenix is the Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides exilicauda)—the most venomous and only lethal Scorpion in Phoenix Arizona. The Bark Scorpion’s sting can be fatal to young children, the elderly, and those who are allergic to the venom. The Arizona Bark Scorpion (1-3 inches in length) is the most commonly encountered Scorpion on properties in Arizona. One interesting fact about the Arizona Bark Scorpion is that it is one of relatively few Scorpions that are able climbers. WATTS Pest Prevention works for effective Scorpion Control.
The effect of a Scorpion’s sting depends primarily on the species of Scorpion involved. The sting of Scorpions in Vaejovis and Hadrurus genera is usually no more serious than stings of ants, bees, or wasps, unless a person has an allergic reaction. Normal reactions include an immediate intense, localized, burning sensation, with little redness or swelling; symptoms usually subside after about 30 minutes. The sting of a Bark Scorpion, however, can be serious, producing severe pain and swelling at the site of the sting, numbness, frothing at the mouth, difficulty breathing, respiratory paralysis, muscle twitching, and convulsions. These symptoms are signs for the need of immediate medical attention. Especially at risk are children and the elderly. In California, the Bark Scorpion occurs only in the extreme southeastern part of the state, along the Arizona border.
Anyone stung by a Bark Scorpion or experiencing an allergic reaction to a sting should seek medical attention. Keep the sting victim calm and relaxed, and do not allow the consumption of alcohol or other sedatives. It may be helpful to apply pressure compression as well as an ice pack to the sting site. Capture the Scorpion for identification if you can do it without risking your safety. Antivenins are available to treat severe reactions to stings.
Death from Scorpion sting is rare because stinging encounters are uncommon and antivenin is effective. During a 10-month period in the southwest, physicians reported 1,573 cases of Scorpion stings. The last reported death in Arizona, where Scorpions are common, was in 1948.
A successful Scorpion Control program requires more than the application of pesticides. Such methods include the client’s cooperation in properly preparing and maintaining the property being serviced.
To prevent stinging encounters with Scorpions, do not leave shoes, boots, clothing items, or wet towels outdoors where Scorpions can hide. Shake towels around the swimming pool and shake all clothing and shoes before putting them on. Wear gloves when working in the yard. Wear shoes outdoors, especially during the evening hours. A portable black light may be used to survey for Scorpions in and around the home. Scorpions glow brightly under black light and are therefore easily found and removed.
Rest assured, WATTS Pest Prevention has the specialized training to take care of any Scorpion infestation. Your WATTS Pest Prevention specialists are available 24 hours / 7 days a week to prevent any further Scorpion infestation of your property.
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