Scorpions are common pests in the southern United States. These pests prefer desert climates and hide in cool, dark spaces during the daytime. Attics, basements and crawl spaces are popular scorpion habitats, and they stay so well hidden that it is often hard to detect a scorpion infestation before it becomes a serious problem. Knowing how scorpions behave will help you understand what to do next.

Habitats and Shelter

While scorpions most commonly hide in dark areas of the home that are not frequently used, they can also take up residence in outdoor spaces. Detached garages, tool sheds and even piles of unused materials are all suitable habitats for these pests. Scorpions search for water in homes and outdoor structures, so keeping all areas of your home clean and dry is the best way to prevent an infestation. Scorpions also flock to puddles and containers left around near a house.

What to Do if You See a Scorpion

Scorpions tend to live in groups and they feed on insects, so if you see one or two scorpions in or around your home, there is a good chance you have a larger insect problem. Keeping the insect problem in your home under control eliminates the food source for scorpions and helps keep them at bay. Always clean crumbs and spills immediately so they do not attract ants and roaches, which are some of the choice items in a scorpion’s diet. Outdoor insect control is important as well since scorpions prefer to live outside.

Get rid of any outdoor clutter, such as cardboard boxes and piles of wood. Keep your home organized and avoid accumulating large piles of storage in your closets, where scorpions are likely to hide. The fewer dark spaces scorpions have to hide in, the less likely they are to be attracted to your home.

Once all possible scorpion habitats have been removed from your home, seal any cracks in the windows and doors around the house. Scorpions can squeeze in through small openings in the home, such as cracked walls and baseboards. A compromised foundation is another common entry point for scorpions looking for new shelter. All windows should be screened so scorpions are unable to enter when they are opened.

Call in the Professionals

The professional pest control experts at Preventive Pest Control have years of knowledge and experience when it comes to eliminating scorpions. From a few household pests to a major infestation, professional pest control is your best bet for thorough pest elimination. Store-bought products are often ineffective, difficult to use and they can even be dangerous to your pets. For Las Vegas scorpion control solutions that are safe for your home and family, call Preventive today at (702) 649-0019 for a free quote.