Stop Scorpions in Their Tracks
If you’ve ever done the midnight slipper shuffle on your way to the kitchen only to freeze at the sight of a little critter with a curled-up tail, you’re not alone. One of our long-time customers, Hank from Hurricane, told us a story that’ll make your skin crawl just a touch. He’d just finished a long day working out on his property and was getting ready to head into town. As usual, he reached for his trusty old cowboy boots—only this time, something didn’t feel quite right. Yep, you guessed it. A scorpion had made itself at home right inside the toe. He jumped about three feet straight up and let out a holler his wife still teases him about. From that day on, Hank became a flip-flop man indoors, no matter the weather.
Truth is, here in Southern Utah, scorpions aren’t just some old desert tale passed down around the campfire. They’re real, they’re local, and they’ve got a knack for showing up where you least expect ’em. Whether it’s your garage, garden shed, or even the laundry room, scorpions don’t need much of an invitation to come calling.
Why Scorpions Love Southern Utah
Southern Utah’s warm, arid climate is practically a five-star resort for scorpions. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and very little rainfall, it’s just the kind of dry heat these critters crave. Add in the rugged, rocky terrain with its natural nooks and crannies, and you’ve got the perfect habitat. The iconic red rock formations that make our landscape so stunning also provide excellent cover and nesting spots for scorpions. They tuck into cracks during the heat of the day and come slinking out when the sun dips low. And let’s not forget the man-made hiding spots—woodpiles, unkempt landscaping, old tires, and even the brick edges of raised flower beds. It’s all scorpion paradise if it stays shady and undisturbed.
Common Scorpions in Southern Utah
We mainly see three types around these parts:
- Arizona Bark Scorpion
- The most infamous and venomous of the bunch.
- Small, light brown, and quick as a whip.
- These fellas like to hide in cool, dark places and are the most likely to sneak into homes.
- If stung: It feels like an electric shock followed by intense pain, numbness, or tingling. Seek medical help immediately—especially for children or the elderly.
- Desert Hairy Scorpion
- Big, yellowish, and hairy (hence the name).
- Less venomous, but still packs a sting.
- Typically found out in the open desert and less likely to invade homes.
- If stung: Think bee sting with a lingering burn. Usually manageable at home with ice and rest, but see a doctor if symptoms worsen.
- Striped Tail Scorpion (a.k.a. Devil Scorpion)
- Mid-sized, with distinct stripes on the tail.
- Common around residential areas, especially near retaining walls and landscaping rocks.
- If stung: Painful but mild for most folks. Clean the area, apply a cold compress, and monitor for any allergic reactions.
When Scorpions Come Out to Play
Scorpions are nocturnal. You might not see them during the day, but come nightfall—especially in warmer months like April through October—they’re active and on the hunt. They come out to feed on insects, and sometimes that leads them straight into your home through tiny cracks, vents, or even the plumbing.
Where You Might Spot ‘Em
- Shoes and clothing left on the floor — Scorpions love a good surprise. Shake ’em out unless you want a toe-tingling wake-up call.
- Tubs, sinks, and drains — Nothing like a late-night bathroom visit to meet a creepy crawler in the tub. They’re after water, not your rubber ducky.
- Closets and storage boxes — These are like luxury condos to scorpions. Quiet, dark, and nobody bothers them—until you do.
- Gardens and under mulch — Scorpions appreciate good landscaping too. All that mulch? Prime real estate.
- Garage corners and basements — If you’ve got clutter, you’ve got cover. Scorpions will happily move in rent-free.
- Retaining walls and rock features — Those decorative rocks look great in the yard, and to a scorpion, they look like the Ritz.
Basically, anywhere that’s dark, cool, and undisturbed can be scorpion country.
Are Scorpions Dangerous?
While most scorpion stings feel a lot like a bee sting, the Arizona Bark Scorpion can cause more serious reactions—especially in young kids, elderly folks, or pets. Symptoms can include numbness, difficulty breathing, and intense pain. While fatalities are rare, it’s not something you want to gamble with. If swelling, breathing issues, or any concerning symptoms show up after a sting, don’t tough it out—contact a medical professional right away.
DIY Tips to Keep Scorpions Out
- Seal up cracks and crevices around the house.
- Keep outdoor lights off when possible (they attract bugs—scorpion food).
- Store firewood at least 30 feet from the house.
- Use weather stripping on doors and windows.
- Keep your yard trimmed and tidy.
These steps can help, but if you’ve already spotted one inside, chances are there are more hiding out.
Why You Need Professional Scorpion Control
Scorpions are survivors. They can go months without food, squeeze through openings the width of a credit card, and even survive being submerged in water. DIY sprays and store-bought traps usually don’t cut it.
At Newby’s Pest Control, we know Southern Utah because we’re from Southern Utah. We don’t just treat for scorpions—we find their hiding spots, disrupt their breeding, and make sure your home is safe long-term. Our treatments are kid-safe, pet-friendly, and done by folks who actually care (and who won’t show up late wearing a hazmat suit).
Curious which scorpion might be creeping around your place—or how to stop ’em for good? We put together a Southern Utah scorpion guide to help you ID, prevent, and protect. Check it out here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scorpion Control
Q: How do I know if I have a scorpion problem? A: Spotting even one indoors can be a sign of more. If you see them regularly, especially at night with a blacklight, it’s time to call the pros.
Q: Are scorpion stings fatal? A: Rarely. Most stings are painful but not life-threatening. However, reactions can be serious in children, pets, or the elderly.
Q: Will over-the-counter sprays work? A: Not usually. Most DIY products don’t reach where scorpions hide and won’t eliminate the problem at its source.
Q: What time of year are scorpions most active? A: From late spring to early fall—any time temps are warm and bugs are plentiful.
Q: Can you guarantee they won’t come back? A: No pest company can promise that, but with our ongoing service and proven methods, we drastically reduce the chance of return visits.
Q: Is your treatment safe for kids and pets? A: Absolutely. We use products and methods that are tough on pests but safe for your loved ones.
Wrap-Up: Don’t Wait for a Sting
If you’ve seen scorpions around your home, or you’re just plain tired of checking your boots before you slip them on, give us a call. We’ll come out, do a full inspection, and get you set up with a plan that actually works.
Call Newby’s today at (435) 586-7337 or schedule online. Let’s make your home scorpion-free—for good.
Because peace of mind isn’t just nice to have. It’s necessary.
