Scorpions are a fact of life in Central Texas, and the Austin area is no exception. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension identifies the striped bark scorpion as the most common species in the state and the only one found throughout Texas, with two species recorded near Austin. Knowing what you are looking at, and where it hides, makes an encounter far less stressful.
How to identify the striped bark scorpion
Adults are about 2.5 inches long, yellowish tan, with two broad dark stripes running the length of the back. Their pincers and tail are noticeably slender, and the tail is longer on males.
Where they hide
Striped bark scorpions are nocturnal. By day they shelter under rocks, boards and debris, and they are strongly associated with dead vegetation, fallen logs and human dwellings. They climb trees and walls easily and are frequently found in attics. During hot weather they often move down into living areas to escape attic heat, which is when most indoor sightings happen.
Stings and safety
According to Poison Control, if a sting happens, wash the area with soap and water, then call the poison center at 1-800-222-1222 or use webPOISONCONTROL online for guidance. Get emergency medical care right away if effects spread beyond the sting site. Serious reactions in the United States are rare and usually limited to very young children, so watch small children closely and keep scorpions away from areas where they play and sleep.
When to call a professional
- You have seen scorpions more than once inside your home.
- Sightings are in living areas, bedrooms or a child’s room.
- Anyone in the household is allergic or a young child is at risk.
- You are finding them in the attic or in more than one room.
A pest control professional can assess how they are getting in and treat the property, rather than dealing with one scorpion at a time.
Getting help
Your Local Home Services connects Austin homeowners with local, independent pest control professionals. If scorpions are showing up in your home, call (848) 375-7173 to discuss your situation and get a free quote. You can also read more about pest control in Austin, TX on our service page.
This article is general information, not medical advice. For sting reactions, contact a medical professional.