Scorpion Pest Control
Oklahoma residents are no strangers to scorpions, especially if you live in a wooded area. Believe it or not, scorpions aren’t insects – they’re actually arachnids, just like spiders. Scorpions are quite intimidating to look at, with large pincers, giant stingers, eight legs, and hard, tank-like exoskeletons.
Just like with spiders, fleas, roaches, and ants, these arthropods are capable of invading your home in search of food or shelter, and it’s important to spray for them and protect your family before they take over.
Tulsa’s Most Trusted Scorpion Control
Oklahoma Scorpions
There are over 2,500 species of scorpion, but there is only one type of scorpion native to Oklahoma – the striped bark scorpion (Centruroides vittatus). These intimidating creatures have four sets of legs, and are easily identifiable by the two dark stripes that run down their tan bodies.
While other species are known for burrowing, the striped bark scorpion hides under rocks, vegetation, logs, and other debris. Striped bark scorpions are nocturnal, and like to spend the daytime in cool places, which frequently leads them to houses.
This Oklahoma scorpion is carnivorous, eating flies, spiders, centipedes, and any large insects they can come across. Their tail is used to inject prey with venom, immobilizing the victim while they eat. They’re even known to feed on other scorpions!
Are Scorpions Dangerous?
Scorpions are venomous, and their sting is typically more painful than a bee or wasp sting. Usually the pain completely subsides within 24 hours, and most people won’t need a doctor visit. However, young children, the elderly, and hypersensitive individuals are the exception.
To treat a scorpion sting at home, simply wash the area with soap and water, and apply a cold compress. If the pain is particularly bothersome, aspirin can help, as can elevating the affected limb. It’s important not to administer any sedatives, however, and if swelling persists or breathing becomes difficult, you should visit a minor emergency center.
Ultimately, scorpions aren’t aggressive towards humans, and only sting when they feel threatened. Unfortunately, most people don’t see them until they’re already in a threatening position. Once they get in your house, they could be anywhere that you’re not expecting, such as in your throw blanket, in your shoes, or on your bed. A simple act of getting dressed or laying down could make one your enemy, so it’s important to prevent them from ever taking up residence in your home.
How to Get Rid of Scorpions in Oklahoma
There are lots of do-it-yourself solutions for scorpion pest control, such as sealing up entry points to your home with caulk or weather stripping, installing window screens, removing fallen trees and logs from your property, not stacking firewood up against the house, and trimming vegetation away from your house.
However, if you live in an area prone to scorpions, none of these preventative measures will be full-proof, and will only serve to complement a visit from a professional scorpion exterminator.
If you’re tired of having to turn on every light between you and the bathroom at 3 a.m., and you’re sick of living in fear of pulling up your boots in the morning, then it’s time to call Integrity Pest Management for your Tulsa scorpion control.