Scorpions 
Description:
Scorpions are not an insect but an arachnid.They have eight legs and a pair of long pedipalps ending in pincers similar to lobsters. These are used to capture and hold prey and for defense. They have a long segmented tail with a venom bulb at the end. Connected to this bulb is a sharp curved stinger used to inject their venom. They are pale gold or straw color when older and may have an orange cast when immature. The common species, Bark scorpion (Centruroides exilicauda), grow to approximately 2.5 inches. The less toxic or prevalent Desert Hairy Scorpion, (Hadrurus Arizonensis), can grow to over 6 inches long.
Habitat:
About 90 species occur in the U.S., and all but four of these naturally occur west of the Mississippi River. Scorpions are nocturnal and predatory and feed on a variety of insects, spiders, centipedes, and other scorpions. Although they are equipped with venom to defend themselves, scorpions fall prey to many types of creatures, such as, tarantulas, lizards, owls, mice and bats. In Arizona,, scorpions are found under rocks and hiding in decaying wood during the day and "hunting" for food at night. In your home, the scorpion hides in everything from clothes in dark closets, under kitchen cabinets and between walls. However, they prefer hot environments. When they appear inside it's solely by accident while searching for food. They also may be driven inside by elimination or disturbance of their natural environment (i.e. new home building) In cooler weather scorpion activity decreases due to a slow down in the metabolic needs. This is often a good time to increase control efforts as they are at their weakest.
Life Cycle:
Scorpions have a complex mating ritual and a long gestation period from (2-3 months to 18 months, depending on species). The young develop inside the female and are born live. The 25-35 "babies" climb unto their mother's back and remain on her back until they molt for the first time; usually 1-2 weeks.
Once they climb down, they are on their own and periodically they molt (5 - 6 times) their way into adulthood. The average scorpion lives probably 3- 5 years but, some species live from 10 -15 years.
Safety tips:
Despite their bad reputation, only one species in the U.S. has venom potent enough to be considered dangerous to humans. This species is found over much of Arizona, the Bark Scorpion. The venom of the Bark Scorpion may cause nothing more than a stinging sensation and some discomfort which is lessened by the application of cold water or ice. However, in a small child , older person or someone allergic to the sting; the venom may produce SEVERE pain, swelling, numbness, frothing at the mouth, difficulty breathing, muscle twitching, and convulsions. Scorpion antivenom is available. If you've been stung and you're concerned about your reaction call POISON CONTROL immediately at (602) 253-3334 (PHX area) or 1-800-362-0101.
Prevention:
Remove trash, old boxes, piles of lumber, old clothing and other unwanted items. Eliminate cluttered areas in closets, attics, garages and other outbuildings. Dust and vacuum often especially in corners, under furniture, storage areas and normally undisturbed places. Make sure there is no possible entry around cracks, crevices and around foundations. Our PREMIER SEALING SERVICE is extremely important in controlling scorpions.
Our technicians have up-to-date knowledge of techniques available for use in treating your home and business and will create customized treatment and maintenance programs for each customer!