Getting rid of scorpions in Houston starts with understanding why they’re in your home and taking steps to keep them away. Here’s a simple guide to help you tackle scorpions while keeping in mind Houston’s hot, humid environment.
Key Takeaways
- The striped bark scorpion is common in Houston and poses risks for kids, pets, and allergy sufferers.
- Food sources, clutter, and overgrown vegetation create inviting conditions for scorpions around your home.
- Cracks, humidity, and bright lights make homes accessible and attractive to scorpions if not addressed.
- Professional pest control is necessary for persistent scorpions or clear signs of a serious infestation.
6 Steps to Eliminate Scorpions in Houston, Texas
Getting rid of scorpions in your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these practical steps, you can create an environment that’s far less attractive to scorpions while keeping your family safe.
Here’s what you need to know to tackle this pest problem effectively:
1. Know the Basics
The striped bark scorpion is the most common type of scorpion in the area. It has a slim body with noticeable stripes and a painful stinger.
While scorpion stings are not usually dangerous, they can be serious for kids, pets, or people with allergies. If someone shows difficulty breathing or severe allergic reactions, get medical attention right away.
2. Remove What Attracts Scorpions
Scorpions look for places with food and shelter. Removing these will make your home less appealing:
- Get rid of food sources like cockroaches and crickets, as they love to eat these household pests.
- Keep your garage, closets, and yard organized.
- Remove debris, and don’t leave firewood and woodpiles stacked near your home.
- Trim bushes and grass often. Store firewood at least a few inches off the ground.
3. Seal Up Entry Points
Scorpions can get into your home through the tiniest gaps, so sealing those entry points is essential.
Adding weather stripping to your doors and windows can block spaces they might slip through. You should also check your walls, foundation, and areas around utility pipes for cracks or holes, then seal them up with caulk.
4. Make Your Home Less Inviting
Even if scorpions like Houston’s natural conditions, you can make your house less welcoming.
Start by cutting down on moisture—scorpions like damp areas, so use a dehumidifier in garages, closets, and crawl spaces to keep things dry.
You can also switch to yellow bug lights outside. These lights attract fewer insects, which means fewer scorpions coming near your home.
5. Set Up Traps
If scorpions have already made their way inside, setting up traps can help you catch them. Sticky traps work well—just place them along walls, in dark corners, and in garages.
These traps are especially effective at night when scorpions are most active, making it easier to capture them as they move around.
6. Try Natural Repellents
Natural methods can help keep scorpions away. Some people use DIY peppermint oil spray to repel scorpions. Dab or spray it around doors, windows, and other entry points.
Diatomaceous earth can also work well. Sprinkle this powder in cracks and crevices. It dries out scorpions and kills them naturally.
How to Spot Signs of a Scorpion Infestation
As homeowners, you may be unsure whether you have a scorpion problem. Look for these signs:
- Seeing Scorpions Often: Spotting common scorpions, especially at night, is a strong sign.
- Finding Them in Dark Hiding Spots: Check areas like garages, under furniture, or in closets.
- Lots of Insects: More cockroaches or crickets around your home might mean scorpions are nearby.
When to Call Professional Pest Control Services
If scorpions keep showing up despite your efforts, or if you have a serious infestation, it’s time to call a pest control company.
At Reliant Pest Management, our pest control experts can provide scorpion control services in the Houston area. We offer same-day service, Saturday appointments, and free quotes.
Contact us today, and our team of exterminators will help you keep your home scorpion-free.
