10 Popular Scorpion Myths Debunked
Scorpions are one of Las Vegas NV’s most dreaded and misunderstood pests. This fear is a result of their frightening appearance, and their capability to sting the unsuspecting public. This fear has also led to a few popular myths about these Las Vegas pests:
1. All scorpions are killers. Being stung by a scorpion is usually not fatal, unless they sting small children, the elderly, or someone with a week immune system. Out of the 1,500 different species of scorpions found around the world, only 25 species have venom that is powerful enough to kill humans. The most poisonous scorpion, the Arizona Bark Scorpion, is found in Las Vegas. The stings of the other species are usually not serious and usually result in localized pain with some swelling and tenderness. Some people are allergic to scorpion venom, and if a sting seems serious, call the National Poison Control Center toll-free at (800) 222-1222.
2. Scorpion venom is lethal. Their neurotoxins only target specific kinds of prey, usually different species of insects. For humans, a scorpion sting is usually less painful than a wasp or bee sting. I wouldn’t recommend going out and getting stung by a scorpion to find out, but it’s important to understand that they are not as lethal as some folks believe. Scorpion venom destroys red blood cells, producing localized discoloration at the sting site and painful swelling.
3. The bigger the scorpion, the deadlier. The opposite is actually true. While all bark scorpions are dangerous, the smaller one’s venom is more potent.
4. Scorpions can commit suicide with their own venom. The muscular and nervous systems of scorpions are actually not affected by the molecules contained in scorpion venom.
5. Scorpions prefer living inside homes. A scorpion’s natural habitat is the outdoors. Some species make burrows, while others just hide under logs, rocks, boards, and trash. Bark scorpions live on vertical surfaces such as trees, bushes, and walls. They sometimes do wander into our homes looking for water which debunks another myth that scorpions don’t drink.
6. Scorpions can breath underwater. Have you ever worried about swimming in a pool on a hot Las Vegas afternoon, and being stung by a live scorpion? Rest easy. Although scorpions can hold their breath for several minutes, they are poor swimmers and cannot breath underwater.
7. Surrounding a scorpion with a ring of fire will result in it stinging itself to death. This is a myth that has been retold for many years. Although the scorpion would become highly agitated, it wouldn’t be able to kill itself. Like I mention before, scorpions are immune to their own venom.
8. Black scorpions are more deadly then pale ones. Although the black scorpions are bigger and more menacing in appearance, just the opposite is true. Watch out for the small yellowish ones.
9. Pouring liquor on a scorpion kills it.
10. You cannot kill scorpions with pest control products. This may have been the case 20 years ago, but with innovation and technology this statement doesn’t hold true anymore. Las Vegas pest control companies offer state-of-the-art effective pest control products.
Scorpions are helpful pests that are a vital part of Las Vegas’ natural Eco-systems. They play intricate roles of both predator and prey. Just because scorpions are vital to the ecosystem, that doesn’t mean you want them in or around your home.
If you are seeing scorpions in or around your property, contact a Las Vegas pest control professional today!
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September 14, 2012 at 6:25 pm