Pest Expert Overview: Scorpions in Bryan & College Station
The scorpions found in the College Station area are striped bark scorpions, Centruoides vittatus. Striped bark scorpions are yellowish in color with 2 parallel dark stripes along their back. They are the most commonly encountered scorpion in the United States with a home range throughout the South Central United States and Northern Mexico.
Striped bark scorpions can grow to 2.75 inches in length and are often found under rocks and in cracks and crevices throughout the outdoor environment. They exhibit a behavior called thigmotaxis which means they are drawn to areas that are a tight squeeze. Yes, they do fluoresce under UV light.
Life Cycle
Scorpions have a complicated mating “dance” that takes place each fall. After 8 months of gestation, scorpions give live birth to around 30 offspring. The offspring cling to the mother’s back through their first molt before dispersing. Scorpions in captivity can live as long as 25 years, but only 3-8 years in the wild.
Scorpions are important predators of other insects and arachnids, many of which may also be pests. They use their neurotoxic venom to immobilize prey before consuming them.
Why are they Pests?
As predators of other pests, scorpions are important in the environment. However, they frequently invade homes and can sting humans and pets. The sting from a striped bark scorpion is on par with that of a wasp as far as pain level. There have been no substantiated deaths from striped bark scorpion stings. Swelling may occur, but it is not nearly as common as with wasp or bee stings. As with any stinging pest, some individuals may be allergic and have an anaphylactic reaction, which can be very dangerous.
Scorpion Prevention
Preventing scorpions involves reducing their prey, habitat and access to your home. Using LED lights for your outdoor lighting is less attractive to the insects they feed on, so can reduce scorpion abundance. Keeping debris and foliage away from your house limits their shelter areas and access to entry points. Make sure that all doors and windows seal properly as well. Finally, don’t let bedding or bed skirts touch the floor. This will keep them from ending up in bed with you in the middle of the night.
Professional Scorpion Control
If you are dealing with a scorpion infestation, Venus Pest Company can help. Founded by Aggie Entomologist Dr. Scott Lingren, we provide expert, eco-friendly Integrated Pest Management solutions in Bryan and College Station. To get started, fill out the contact form, call/text 979.774.0486 or email [email protected]. Don’t let nuisance pests take over your home!
