Are There Scorpions in Oklahoma? Your Guide to Edmond OK Pest Control

Picture this: you’re walking into your cozy Edmond home after a long day, only to find an unwelcome guest – a scorpion – scurrying across your floor. 

This unsettling scenario is more common than you might think. Although scorpions aren’t terribly common in Oklahoma, there’s one species that can be found throughout the state and three to five that pop up here and there.

So while you’re more likely to see a spider, tick, or house fly, scorpions can – and frequently do – invade Oklahoma homes. 

With their intimidating appearance and painful sting, scorpions are one of the last pests you want to encounter in your home. 

But fear not! This ultimate guide to pest control in Edmond is here to arm you with the knowledge and strategies you need to keep these creepy crawlies – and other pests – at bay.

Why Are There Scorpions in Oklahoma?

Believe it or not, Oklahoma’s climate is perfect for scorpions. These critters love warm, dry places, which makes Oklahoma an ideal habitat. 

While they might seem like a desert problem, scorpions have adapted to a variety of environments. Oklahoma’s mix of open spaces and human habitation provides plenty of hiding spots for these pests.

Scorpions are nocturnal, which means they come out at night to hunt. They feed on insects, spiders, and even small rodents. Edmond, with its suburban layout, offers lots of nooks and crannies for scorpions to hide during the day and hunt at night.

A common type of scorpion found in Oklahoma is the striped bark scorpion. You’re more likely to encounter this species around your home, particularly in dark, cool spaces like basements or garages, so of course, knowing what attracts scorpions to your property is the first step in preventing an infestation.

Identifying Scorpion Infestations

You might think scorpions are only found in rural areas, but that’s not the case. Edmond residents have reported scorpion sightings inside their homes, especially during the warmer months. 

Scorpions are excellent climbers and can easily find their way into your home through small cracks and openings. Once inside, they seek out dark, damp places. Basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms are common hiding spots.

The good news? Most scorpion encounters in Edmond are not dangerous. The striped bark scorpion’s sting can be painful, but it’s rarely life-threatening. Their stings can be painful and cause allergic reactions in some people. While the striped bark scorpion’s venom is not fatal, it’s still unpleasant and worth avoiding.

Scorpions also pose a threat to pets. Curious cats and dogs can get stung, causing distress and potential veterinary bills. Keeping your home scorpion-free protects both your family and your furry friends.

So how do you know if you have a scorpion problem? Look for these signs:

• Sightings: The most obvious sign is seeing a scorpion in your home. Remember, where there’s one, there might be more. They’re most often seen in cool, dark, and damp places like basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
• Exoskeletons: Scorpions shed their exoskeletons as they grow. Finding these shed skins can indicate an infestation.
• Scorpion Droppings: Scorpion droppings look like small grains of sand, typically deposited near walls and doors. If you notice these around your home, it’s time to investigate further.

Scorpions are nocturnal, so you may not see them during the day. Using a blacklight at night can help you spot them, as scorpions glow under UV light.

How to Keep Scorpions Out of Your Edmond, OK Home

Preventing scorpions from entering your home is the best way to avoid an infestation. Here are some practical tips:

1. Seal Cracks and Openings

Scorpions can squeeze through tiny gaps. Inspect your home’s exterior for cracks and seal them with caulk. Pay special attention to areas around windows, doors, and utility lines.

2. Remove Outdoor Debris

Scorpions love hiding under rocks, wood piles, and other debris. Keep your yard clean and remove any potential hiding spots. Trim back bushes and trees that are close to your home to reduce scorpion habitats.

3. Use Weatherstripping

Install weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent scorpions from slipping inside. This simple step can make a big difference in keeping pests out.

4. Maintain Cleanliness

Scorpions are attracted to other insects. By keeping your home clean and free of food crumbs, you reduce the likelihood of attracting the insects that scorpions prey on.

5. Store Firewood Properly

If you use firewood, store it away from your home and off the ground. Scorpions like to hide in wood piles, so keeping them at a distance reduces the risk of them entering your home.

6. Try a Natural Repellent

If you prefer natural methods, the jury is still out on the effectiveness of most natural remedies against scorpions – but they’re worth a shot. 

Some options include:

• Cedar: Cedarwood is a natural scorpion repellent. Place cedar mulch around your home’s perimeter to keep scorpions away.
• Lavender Oil: Scorpions dislike the scent of lavender. Use lavender oil in a spray bottle and apply it around entry points and known scorpion hiding spots.
• Diatomaceous Earth: This natural substance can be sprinkled around your home to deter scorpions. It works by dehydrating them, making your home less appealing.

7. Call a Professional

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, scorpions can still be a problem. If you notice multiple scorpions or signs of an infestation, it’s time to call in the professionals. Pest control experts have the tools and knowledge to handle scorpion infestations effectively.

Professional pest control services can assess your home, identify entry points, and use targeted treatments to eliminate scorpions. They can also provide ongoing maintenance to make sure your home remains scorpion-free.

Trust Summit Pest Solutions to Get Rid of Your Problem

Whether you’re dealing with spiders, fleas, ants, or yes – scorpions – Summit Pest Solutions is your trusted name to know for all things pest control. We offer comprehensive pest control services uniquely tailored to your needs.

Ready to protect your home from scorpions? Give Summit Pest Solutions a call today. We’ll get you squared away.