If you live in Mesa, AZ, or anywhere in the East Valley, you’re no stranger to scorpions. These prehistoric-looking arachnids have been lurking around since the dinosaurs, and unfortunately, they seem to have no plans of leaving your home anytime soon.
But don’t worry—we’ve got your back. Whether you’re dealing with a full-blown scorpion invasion or you just want to prevent them from making themselves at home, this guide will cover everything you need to know. From DIY methods to professional extermination, we’ll break down what works and what doesn’t so you can finally reclaim your space.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Scorpions: What Are You Up Against?
- Why Are Scorpions So Common in Mesa, AZ?
- How to Prevent Scorpions from Entering Your Home
- DIY Methods to Get Rid of Scorpions
- The Truth About Scorpion Traps and Repellents
- When to Call a Professional Scorpion Exterminator
- Final Thoughts
1. Understanding Scorpions: What Are You Up Against?
Scorpions might look like something out of a horror movie, but understanding them is the first step to keeping them out of your home.
Common Scorpions in Arizona
The most notorious scorpion in Mesa and the East Valley is the Arizona Bark Scorpion (Centruroides sculpturatus). This species is the most venomous scorpion in North America and is known for its painful sting that can cause numbness, swelling, and even breathing issues in severe cases.
Other species found in Arizona include:
- Striped Tail Scorpion (Paravaejovis spinigerus) – Less venomous but still painful
- Giant Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis) – The largest scorpion in the U.S., but relatively harmless
2. Why Are Scorpions So Common in Arizona?
Mesa, AZ, provides the perfect habitat for scorpions thanks to its hot climate, rocky terrain, and suburban development. Scorpions love the desert, and as new neighborhoods expand into their natural habitat, they adapt—sometimes by moving right into your home.
Top Reasons Scorpions Invade Homes
- Seeking shelter from extreme temperatures (especially during summer and winter)
- Abundant food supply (they prey on roaches, crickets, and other insects)
- Moisture sources (like leaky pipes and outdoor irrigation)
3. How to Prevent Scorpions from Entering Your Home
The best way to get rid of scorpions? Make sure they never enter your home in the first place. Here’s how:
Seal Entry Points
- Install weather stripping around doors and windows.
- Use silicone caulk to fill cracks and gaps in walls.
- Cover vents and drains with mesh screens.
Declutter Your Home & Yard
- Keep your yard clean and free of woodpiles, rocks, and debris.
- Trim bushes and remove landscape clutter where scorpions can hide.
- Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your house.
Control Their Food Source
Scorpions feed on insects, so reducing their food supply will naturally reduce their presence.
- Keep your home free of crickets, roaches, and spiders.
- Turn off outdoor lights at night (they attract insects, which attract scorpions).
4. DIY Methods to Get Rid of Scorpions
If you’re a DIY warrior, here are some proven (and not-so-proven) methods to try:
Sticky Traps (Works!)
- Place sticky traps along walls, near doors, and in the garage.
- Best for monitoring scorpion activity, but not a standalone solution.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) (Partially Works)
- DE is a natural insecticide that dehydrates scorpions.
- Works better for insect control than scorpions, but worth trying.
Essential Oils & Citrus Sprays (Doesn’t Work)
- Claims that lavender, peppermint, or citrus repel scorpions lack scientific evidence.
- May help with insects, which indirectly reduces scorpions.
5. The Truth About Scorpion Traps and Repellents
Do Scorpion Repellents Work?
Most over-the-counter scorpion repellents are ineffective. Scorpions are resilient and can survive extreme conditions, so don’t rely on repellent sprays alone.
Do Ultrasonic Pest Repellers Work?
Short answer: No. Studies show ultrasonic devices do not deter scorpions (source).
6. When to Call a Professional Scorpion Exterminator
If you’re seeing scorpions regularly, it’s time to bring in the pros. Professional exterminators use:
- Pesticides designed for scorpions
- Barrier treatments to keep them from returning
- UV light inspections to locate hidden scorpions
How to Choose a Reliable Pest Control Service
- Look for licensed professionals with scorpion experience.
- Read customer reviews and check Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings.
- Make sure they offer a scorpion guarantee (Consumer Reports).
7. Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Home Scorpion-Free
Scorpions in Mesa, AZ, are a year-round problem, but with the right prevention methods, DIY strategies, and professional pest control, you can keep them out for good. Still dealing with scorpions in your home? Primo Pest Control offers expert scorpion extermination services in Mesa and the East Valley. Contact us today for a free consultation!