Scorpions in Baja
by Karri Moser
Scorpions have a distinctive body, namely due to their long pincers and unique tails. The tail of a scorpion is divided into five segments, with a stinger off of the last segment. Scorpions are fluorescent under ultraviolet light. With a small black light outside, it can be very easy to locate scorpions either in their natural habitat or around the house.
The bark scorpion has longer pincers and a longer tail than the other varieties. It has a yellow-colored body and can grow to three inches long. The bark scorpion is the only kind that does not burrow. It is a climber. They can climb fences, stucco walls and trees. You can find them living under the bark of palm and other trees. They are also the only scorpion variety that will congregate with other kinds of scorpions. The sting of a bark scorpion can be more severe than the sting of others, especially for children and the elderly. The sting may result in severe pain, numbness of the site, frothing at the mouth, respiratory distress, twitching or convulsions. You should seek medical attention if you think you have been stung by a bark scorpion.
- Try to seal any cracks around the house, such as loose doors or windows. Scorpions only need 1/16 of an inch to get through a crack.
- It is also advisable to remove piles of bricks or wood farther away from the house. Standing water or trash may also attract them.
- If you leave any shoes or clothing outdoors, such as wet towels, always shake them out to remove any hiding scorpions.
- One other tip is to use yellow lights outside. Regular outdoor lights attract insects, which, in turn, attract scorpions.
General knowledge of the scorpion and basic tips to avoid a sting can help keep the summer nights carefree and safe. While stings can be irritating and rarely dangerous, antivenins work well and can prevent any lingering effects of a scorpion encounter.
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