Surprises are always fun – unless it's a scorpion in your yard!
Since scorpions are known for their painful and sometimes venomous stings, it’s no wonder that homeowners want to keep them out of their yards. Let’s talk about how to get rid of scorpions so you don’t have to share your outdoor space with this creepy crawler!
Why Scorpions Are Attracted to Homes and Yards
Scorpions thrive in hot, dry climates, which is why you’ll often find them in western and southern states like Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada. Don’t let that map fool you, though! Scorpions have been found in homes all across the United States. No matter where you live, your home provides everything scorpions need to thrive.
Common Habitats and Food Sources
Scorpions are most commonly drawn to dark, moist areas that provide shelter and a steady food supply. Undisturbed places like basements, garages, attics, or outdoor clutter such as piles of wood or rocks create ideal hiding spots.
Water is also readily available around homes, thanks to areas with poor drainage, leaky pipes, or overwatered lawns and gardens.
The connection to moisture and great hiding spots makes your yard a great home for arachnids and insects, which adds to the scorpions’ ready food supply.
Effective Methods to Get Rid of Scorpions
Scorpions are a special type of pest, which is why they require targeted pest control methods. While some of these methods can be done on your own, sometimes it’s best to call in the be scorpion exterminators for the best results.
Natural Scorpion Repellents and Barriers
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly approach to scorpion control, try sprinkling diatomaceous earth around the outside of your home. This substance will dehydrate and kill a scorpion when it comes into contact with it. Additionally, you can try lining your home with cedar oil, as the scent has been known to repel scorpions.
For added protection, create a physical barrier between your home and the outside world by using caulk to seal gaps around your windows, plumbing, and foundation. You can also add weather stripping to all exterior doors to limit their options for entry.
Chemical Options and Precautions
If the eco-friendly and DIY options aren’t effective, there are plenty of traditional chemical options to choose from. When using chemicals, be sure to pick something formulated explicitly for scorpions, as their hard exoskeletons can make it challenging for typical pesticides to penetrate.
Anytime you introduce chemicals into your living space, it’s important to be cautious. Follow the label instructions and wear protective gear when applying treatments. Until the chemicals have cured, keep all people and pets away from the treated areas.
Using Traps and Removal Tools
Traps are also an effective resource when learning how to get rid of scorpions. Place sticky traps, similar to mouse traps, in the areas of your home where you’re likely to find scorpions, including basements and garages.
If you’re feeling brave, you can also use a scorpion catcher or bug grabber to catch the scorpions from a distance. Once you’ve caught the pest, follow the instructions that come with the tool to kill and dispose of the scorpion.
Tips for Preventing Scorpions from Returning
Once the scorpions are gone, take preventative measures to keep them away. The last thing you want is to keep battling the same pest problem!
Yard Maintenance and Entry Point Sealing
Keeping your yard clean and well-maintained is one of the best ways to prevent any type of unwanted pest, including scorpions, from making your space their home. Trimming back bushes, shrubs, and other foliage close to your house will eliminate hiding places and prevent scorpions from crawling from a tree branch into your open windows.
Speaking of home entry points, make it a habit to inspect your home’s perimeter a few times a year for any exposed cracks, holes, or openings that would make it easy for scorpions to come into your living space. If you do find unsealed entry points, seal them with caulk. You can also apply mesh covers on your vents and attic openings or screens to your windows and doors to allow air to flow through but still keep unwanted visitors out.
Reducing Moisture and Shelter Areas
Scorpions aren’t social creatures and often want to hide. A big part of reducing their presence on your property is reducing their hiding places and/or food and water sources. Clean up clutter, remove dirt and debris piles, and keep your property neat and tidy.
Reducing moisture in your home will also prevent them from getting comfortable. Repair any outdoor leaks, invest in proper drainage, and use dehumidifiers in indoor areas where condensation or water can collect.
Call a Professional for Well-Rounded Prevention and Removal
When evicting scorpions proves to be too hard for your DIY tactics, call in a professional! Our Mosquito Joe® services can help design a plan to remove these nasty stingers.
Your satisfaction is our top priority! We stand by our work with the Neighborly Done Right Promise™, backed by the Mosquito Joe Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assured that calling your local Mosquito Joe is the right choice.
Request a free estimate today!
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mosquito Joe is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local Mosquito Joe location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
