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How to Get Rid of Scorpions with 12 Best Catchers, Traps and Killers

Although scorpions aren’t considered classical pests, hardly anyone will be glad to meet one in the house. We have prepared a guide on how to get rid of scorpions and the top 12 methods of eliminating them. We’ll list natural organic products and insecticides as well as some repellents. But first let’s profile these horrifying monsters.

Scorpions are arthropods and arachnids. The largest length can reach up to 20 cm, and the smallest species are only 13 mm long. Several dozens of the 1750 known species of scorpion are dangerous to humans. The largest species, Heterometrus swammerdami, inhabits Asian forests and can be up to 23 cm long, but its venom is very weak.

They inhabit warm and hot countries of Europe, North and South America and Asia although they used to be found worldwide with the exception of New Zealand, small islands, freezing Greenland, Antarctica and the islands of the Arctic Ocean. They prefer arid regions.

In the U.S.A., there are scorpions almost everywhere, and most species are widely spread on the South-West in states like Arizona, Texas and New Mexico. A single species inhabits the North, North-West and Central parts of the US, three types of scorpions are found in the South of Florida and there are none in the Rockies. Some species, common in the arid territories of the USA and Mexico and in the forests of North Africa, are usually called woody. Unlike others, they do not live in burrows or under rocks, instead they settle inside the trees and hide in the bark. They are more likely to climb into houses and envenom a child or an elderly person.

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They are most active at night when they go hunting. During the day, they hide under rocks, and in other shady secluded spots. Some species live under tree bark and penetrate wooden barns and residences. They consume insects and other arachnids which is why they only sting humans in self-defense. Although only few species are dangerous for humans, scorpions’ stings are quite painful.

A Review of Scientifically Proven Methods for Getting Rid of Scorpions

There are two ways to get rid of scorpions. The first one is to completely eliminate or limit the likelihood of encountering these venomous pests. A clean and neat lot, closed holes and cracks at home, closed shoes and wearing garden gloves will exclude the possibility of being stung.

The second way is to isolate or kill a scorpion that you have faced. You can catch and carry it away; there even exist special devices made for this purpose. They can be killed with a sharp stick, a heavy object or with an insecticide as well.

how to get rid of scorpions?

To avoid the unpleasant encounter, specialists recommend keeping the house and its surroundings clean and in order. The University of California expert, E. T. Natwick, recognizes the importance of storing shoes, clothes and towels indoors and wearing protective gloves and shoes when working outdoors. Shake towels around the swimming pool and shake all clothing and shoes before putting them on. Wear shoes outdoors, especially during the evening hours. A portable black light (UV light) may be used to look for scorpions in and around the home. Scorpions glow brightly under black light and are therefore easily found and removed.

Scorpions can penetrate buildings through holes and cracks in the windows, doors or plumbing systems. They are attracted by their prey, insects. It is recommended to use the less attractive yellow light outdoors in the regions where they are widely spread. It is equally important to remove open water in the house or around it, or at least limit the access of scorpions to it. Pay special attention to the bathroom and seal the cracks near water and the passage of sewage pipes through the walls.

If you live in California, where scorpions are a daily nuisance, pay a lot of attention to cleanliness and trim overhanging tree branches. Do not store firewood indoors and check it for scorpions prior to use; seal the cracks, holes and other openings in the windows and around the roof. It is recommended to wear garden gloves, protective clothes and shoes when carrying this out.

To catch a scorpion safely, enclose it with a glass jar, slide a sheet of paper underneath it and turn it upside down. After that you can take it away at a safe distance or kill it. You could also kill it by simply stepping on it. You’ll have to apply substantial force, though, as they are adapted to life in narrow spaces and can be flattened without harm to life

Why is it So Difficult to Get Rid of Scorpions?

University of North Carolina experts claim that the use chemical methods to remove scorpions is not very effective as scorpions can survive without food and water for several months and they hide for up to two months after having eaten. That is why only long-action insecticides are effective.

Proven Methods for Getting Rid of Scorpions

Use bifenthrin- and cyfluthrin-containing products both indoors and outdoors. Tralomethrin is used indoors while permethrin is for outdoor use only.

University of Arkansas specialists, in turn, mention diatomaceous earth and silica gel as effective treatments. Diatomaceous earth is a means of physical impact on insects and arthropods. They don’t get used to it and it kills by causing physical harm. The product is harmless for pets and humans.

The US National Park Service has issued a memo aimed at fighting against myths surrounding scorpions. Some people experience irrational panic attacks at their sight, just like a fear of spiders. It is important to understand that the majority of scorpions are not really dangerous and that they never attack humans first.

Getting Rid of Scorpions with 12 Traps and Killers

We’ve picked twelve products containing the active ingredients approved by the scientists. We’ll start with natural ones, namely diatomaceous earth, traps and a special catching device, and will finish with powerful insecticides.

Natural Scorpion Killers

Safer Brand 51703 Diatomaceous Earth Bed Bug, Flea and Ant Crawling Insect Killer 4-pound bag

Safer Brand 51703

This natural insect killer is suitable for killing numerous scorpions. Diatomaceous earth is a very fine powder made of diatoms’ fossils. Safer Brand diatomaceous earth is non-toxic for humans and pets, but it kills pests by covering them and entering their lungs. When fine enough, diatomite becomes sharp and is capable of cutting the chitinous shield. Even in this form, it remains safe for pets and humans. Sprinkle the powder over infested places and wait for two days. It is also capable of removing other pests, including bed bugs, cockroaches, fleas, earwigs, silverfish, crickets, millipedes and centipedes.

Price: Check the current price

Harris Bed Bug Diatomaceous Earth Powder

If you do not require so much bio-insecticide, opt for a smaller bag of diatomaceous earth made by another brand, Harris Bed Bug Diatomaceous Earth Powder (Check current price) (8 ounce). This is the right choice for dealing with a single invasion of a few scorpions.

Best Scorpion Traps and Catchers

P F HARRIS MFG CO SCTRP Scorpion Trap

P F HARRIS MFG CO SCTRP

This is a great option for catching individual scorpions. A pack contains 2 pesticide-free traps with bait that can be placed in even the remotest places. The traps are also suitable for spiders, roaches, centipedes and ants. The reviews of the trap are inconsistent: some users are satisfied with the result, while others claim that allegedly, Harris traps haven’t been able to attract the pests. In any case, give it a chance as the traps are affordable and easy-to-use.

Price: Check the current price

30 Catchmaster Mouse / Spider / Insect / Scorpion Glue Board Sticky Traps

Scorpion Glue Board Sticky Traps

According to the manufacturer, this set of 30 universal sticky traps is effective for catching scorpions, fruit flies, other insects and even mice. You don’t have to bend the cardboard base or you can fold it marking a closed trap. The pests are attracted to the smell of walnut oil, which humans can feel about a meter (1-2 feet) away.

Users have highly rated this non-toxic device. It is essential that the substance that the trap contains is not toxic and can be neutralized with vegetable oil, so if you don’t wish to kill a scorpion, you can release it after catching it.

Price:  Check the current price

“If you want a thing well done, do it yourself!” The following two traps can also be considered humane, but will actively catch the scorpions.

 

If a container doesn’t fit into some secluded place, a thin catcher with a long handle definitely will. We’re talking about a more expensive My Critter Catcher – Spider & Insect Catcher that is only suitable for small and medium scorpions. If you happen to have many spiders at home, this catcher will be handy. At the end of this 24” handle, there is a bristle that will safely grab your pest once you press the button. The same button will later release it. According to the manufacturer, this multi-functional device is suitable for catching unwanted wasps, bees, stink bugs, crickets, cicadas, grasshoppers, butterflies, roaches, water beetles and other pests.

 Spider & Insect Catcher

If you have ever been stung by a scorpion in your own bed, this catcher is just what you need.

Price: Check the current price

Best Chemical Scorpion Killer Sprays and Powders

TERRO Scorpion Killer Aerosol Spray T2101

TERRO Scorpion Killer T2101

Unlike the universal sprays listed below, this spray (Check current price) made by the famous company, Terro is positioned as an anti-scorpion product, but it can also kill on contact other pests such as ants, spiders, scales, crickets, cockroaches and others. Its active ingredient is Prallethrin (a pyrethroid). Residual control is supposed to last up to 6 weeks. The aerosol is equipped with a wide two-way spraying technology that allows directing the product deeper down a crack, a corner of the room, under the furniture or inside any hole. The spray is odorless, so you can use it both at home and outside.

The users give this product a high rating and say that it is truly effective. Do not save this product when killing a scorpion, you literally have to almost drown it in the chemical. Actual dying will take several minutes so many users place the contaminated bodies of the pests in closed jars or containers to make sure the scorpion is dead before throwing it away. Such a measure also keeps dogs and birds from eating treated pests.

Price:  Check the current price

Ortho Home Defense MAX Insect Killer for Indoor & Perimeter RTU Wand, 1.1 Gallons

Ortho Home Defense MAX

This pesticide contains active bifenthrin. The spray is sold in an economical 1.1gallon canister with an aerosol and can be used both indoors and outdoors. The manufacturer claims that this product can kill pests, dangerous insects and arachnids, including scorpions and creates long-term protection as it deters the pests from the treated territory. The maximum effect is achieved when the killer is sprayed on dry surfaces and should not be exposed to rain or subject to wet cleaning during the day. The protection is valid for up to 12 months indoors and for up to three months outside.

Price:  Check the current price

Talstar Pro 96 ounce (3/4 gallon) jug

Talstar Pro 96 ounce (3/4 gallon) jug

Talstar is a bifenthrin-based product for professional removal of bugs, ticks, ants and other arthropods. Mix an ounce of this product with a gallon of water (this ratio works both for indoor and outdoor use) and spray with Chapin 20000 Poly Lawn and Garden Sprayer (Check current price), for instance, or with a large garden sprayer.

The solution promises to work for up to three months as a killer and repellent when sprayed on dry surfaces inside and outside. The product is indeed effective against scorpions.

Attention! This insecticide cannot be used near bodies of water. This restriction is caused by the extensive length of the residual effect (up to 3 months) and high toxicity of bifenthrin for plants and animals living in bodies of water. As Talstar is a very powerful chemical, carry out the treatment by wearing protective mask and gloves. Once it dries, it becomes completely safe for kids and pets and can be applied in food zones, i.e. pantry or kitchen.

Price: Check the current price

Bayer Advanced 502795 Home Pest Control Indoor and Outdoor Insect Killer Ready-To-Use, 1-Gallon

Bayer Advanced 502795

This is an inexpensive cyfluthrin-based ready-to-use spray insecticide (Check current price). It is sold with a spray and acts for up to 12 months on various crawling, flying and wood infested insects indoors. According to the feedback, it is safe for pets only once it dries! Leave the room immediately after the treatment and don’t let people or pets in for a couple of hours. So far, this product is less popular than its competitors, but it has already achieved great user feed back for its effectiveness and affordability.

Price:  Check the current price

Delta Dust Multi Use Pest Control Insecticide Dust

Delta Dust Multi Use Pest Control

Delta Dust (Check current price) is one of the many accessible deltamethrin-based insecticides approved for indoor use. This universal insecticide powder is available in one-pound packs. The dust is sprayed around the places where the pests inhabit or where they are undesirable and kills various insects and scorpions. It also creates a repelling barrier for pests. You can apply it with a paint brush or use a more convenient hand such as Pest Pistol Mini Duster (Check current price). It can be used outdoors, but Delta Dust works best indoors, when there is protection against weather conditions.

Price: Check the current price

Best Scorpion Killer Sprays, Powders and Traps Comparison Chart

Product Type Type Active Ingredient
Safer Brand 51703 Diatomaceous Earth

Safer Brand 51703

Organic 100% natural insect killer Diatomaceous Earth
Harris Bed Bug Diatomaceous Earth Powder

Harris Bed Bug Diatomaceous Earth Powder

Organic 100% natural insect killer Diatomaceous Earth
P F HARRIS MFG CO SCTRP Scorpion Trap

P F HARRIS MFG CO SCTRP

Sticky traps
30 Catchmaster Mouse / Spider / Insect / Scorpion Glue Board Sticky Traps

30 Catchmaster Scorpion Glue Board Sticky Traps

Humane sticky traps
Big Bug Katcha, traps large and small insects and critters

Big Bug Katcha, traps insects and critters

Pest catcher
My Critter Catcher – Spider & Insect Catcher

My Critter Catcher - Spider & Insect Catcher

Pest catcher
TERRO Scorpion Killer Aerosol Spray T2101

TERRO Scorpion Killer T2101

Killer spray Prallethrin
Ortho Home Defense MAX Insect Killer for Indoor & Perimeter RTU Wand, 1.1 Gallons

Ortho Home Defense MAX

Killer spray Bifenthrin
Talstar Pro 96 ounce (3/4 gallon) jug

Talstar Pro 96 ounce (3/4 gallon) jug

Concentrated killer spray Bifenthrin
Chapin 20000 Poly Lawn and Garden Sprayer

Chapin 20000 Poly Lawn and Garden Sprayer

Sprayer
Bayer Advanced 502795 Home Pest Control Indoor and Outdoor Insect Killer

Bayer Advanced 502795

Killer spray Cyfluthrin
Delta Dust Multi Use Pest Control Insecticide Dust

Delta Dust Multi Use Pest Control

Killer powder Deltamethrin
Pest Pistol Mini Duster
pest duster
Powder duster

Scorpions’ Stings

The bark scorpion that lives over much of Arizona and in southeastern California (smaller population) has the most toxic sting.

A sting of a scorpion is located at the end of a flexible and curved long abdomen which resembles a tail. Various species use this weapon when hunting or when defending against a stronger aggressor. Some species attack from a distance. Parabuthus transvaalicus, living in South Africa, can sprinkle venom at a meter’s radius. Once the venom gets into your eyes, it will cause burning and blindness which can become incurable.

Scorpions’ Stings

The place of the sting becomes red and hurts, but often the pain is soon relieved, just like after a wasp’s sting. If the venom is strong, the victim will experience headache, muscle tremor, fever, dizziness, impaired consciousness, tachycardia, pressure jumps or other symptoms typical of fever. Stung children can suffer from pulmonary edema. People with an allergy to bee venom should beware of scorpions as well. The victim should rest, take painkillers, rinse the spot with soap and water and use a compress (avoid ice, though). In case of contact with venomous species, an appropriate serum is used to treat the patient.

Remember, here at StopPestInfo.com, we believe that, with the right information, you can tackle most pest problems that find their way into your home or garden. If the problem seems to big to handle on your own make sure you reach out to a friend nearby – maybe they have had and solved the same problem! And, of course, Exterminators are always willing to help.

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