Bark Scorpions

What do Arizona bark scorpions look like?

Bark scorpions have flat, brown bodies, yellow to brown appendages, and tails that curl. They have two pincers in front, and each scorpion has a stinger at the end. Adult bark scorpions range from 1 to 3 inches long; immature nymphs are much smaller. A nymph is small enough to slip through a gap the thickness of a credit card.

Are bark scorpions related to spiders?

Yes, bark scorpions and spiders belong to the class Arachnida, making them related. Like all arachnids, both have eight legs.

What do bark scorpions eat?

Scorpions are predators. They hunt bugs and small animals, such as lizards. They’ll feed on almost anything that crawls when they enter a yard. When they come indoors, they do the same. They’ll find crickets, beetles, cockroaches, spiders, and other scorpions to eat.  

Where do bark scorpions live?

Outdoors, you can find bark scorpions under wood, rocks, plant clippings, and other organic debris. As their name suggests, you may find them hiding under tree bark or climbing trees. 

Indoors, bark scorpions head towards secluded spaces, preferring dark and humid spots. Bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and attics are common hiding spots for these pests. 

Are bark scorpions dangerous?

Arizona bark scorpions are one of the most dangerous scorpions in Arizona. They are known for their venomous stings, which can cause severe reactions in humans, especially children or those with weakened immune systems.

Modern medicine and the quick availability of medical treatment have significantly reduced fatalities. Still, it is best to remain cautious when dealing with bark scorpions.  

How can I tell if I have bark scorpions in my home?

It’s not always easy to identify a bark scorpion problem since they are nocturnal and prefer to remain out of sight. If you suspect a problem, you could try searching with a black light at night. Their bodies glow when exposed to UV light. 

How do bark scorpions get into homes?

Bark scorpions are exceptional climbers. They scale trees, plants, and other exterior vegetation. They can also scale exterior walls. As they explore, they search for tiny cracks to hide in or in which to find food. Bark scorpions can enter through a crack in a foundation slab, a window gap, a structural cavity, or a roofline. It is tough to keep scorpions out without professional assistance.  

What attracts bark scorpions?

Bark scorpions are attracted to food and moisture. 

• Scorpions eat insects attracted to light, so they gravitate toward properties with light sources, particularly white light.
• Scorpions eat insects that feed on decaying organic matter. Open trash receptacles can attract scorpions to your property.
• Scorpions eat bugs and tiny animals that hide underneath logs, dead branches, and other organic debris. A lack of routine yard work can attract scorpions.
• Scorpions require moisture. Any moisture issue, such as a damaged sprinkler system, can lure them onto a property.
• Scorpions seek out humid locations to stay hydrated. Overwatered landscaping is likely to attract them.
• Scorpions hide in cracks and underneath objects that block the drying impact of the sun. Any debris in a yard can attract them.

How do I get rid of bark scorpions?

To eliminate bark scorpions from your home, contact Termio Pest Control. Our highly trained and fully licensed pest control specialists are well-versed in eliminating and preventing bark scorpions and other pests from homes in the Phoenix area. 

How can I prevent bark scorpions?

The secret to prevention is two-fold. First, there are things you can do to make it less likely that these pests will enter your home. Second, you can have routine treatments applied to your exterior to add a layer of protection. Here are some tips for the first suggestion:

• Keep lights off or switch to yellow exterior lighting.
• Keep trash receptacles as clean as possible and always covered.
• Remove organic debris as soon as possible.
• Store dead branches in a bin until you’re ready to remove them.
• Don’t store objects in your backyard unless elevated, such as on a pallet.
• Address moisture problems, like damaged sprinklers or plumbing.
• Trim vegetation, and water your plants in the morning.
• Apply materials to seal gaps around utilities.
• Repair screens and update your weatherstripping and door sweeps.
• Apply vent or weep hole protectors if they are missing or damaged.
• Seal foundation cracks and other holes and openings outside the house.