Arizonans are more than a week into summer monsoon. This season annually replenishes the dry land and reduces wildfire threats across the state. According to the National Weather Service, much of the area will receive 30 to 50 percent of the annual rainfall during June, July, August and September.
Heavy monsoon rainfall can flush scorpions out of their ideal hiding places, leading to heightened arachnid activity. These storms leave behind flooding, puddles and humidity, and these sources of moisture provide scorpions the ideal conditions to breed, find shelter and attain sustenance.
Scorpions will find their way into a house during monsoon season through openings where home foundations meet stucco walls. As rain occurs, Phoenicians can expect to see these critters crawling across the floor or hiding in shoes and piles of debris.
Gilbert-based Slick Barrier, a local business that provides one-of-a-kind pesticide free barrier, is providing two key tips about scorpion pest control during monsoon months to inform Arizonans about how to keep kids, pets and family safe.
Scorpions cannot be contained with pesticides only
It can take months to eradicate an adult scorpion with pesticides alone because of arachnid’s larger body size and thicker cuticle. Its exoskeletons provide protection from predators, and it will develop a tolerance over time to the pesticides, making it difficult for long-term removal. Even if the pesticide begins to work, it won’t necessarily prevent scorpions from entering the home. In most cases, half-dead scorpions can still sting a person.
Eliminating scorpion shelter
Many homeowners only utilize pesticides to treat scorpions, but removing areas where scorpions build shelter is an important step in protection. Scorpions love to hide in ceilings, walls and outdoor accessories like pool floats, umbrellas and folding chairs.
It’s important for homeowners to clear and move any debris away from the house and trim foliage that could be touching the house. If a tree is leaning onto the roof, its branches give scorpions a ladder onto the home. Firewood should especially be kept at a distance from the house to prevent scorpions from building their nests.
Additionally, homeowners can keep scorpions out by using products like Slick Barrier, a coating that dries to a glass-like finish. Since the barrier is smooth, pests like scorpions cannot climb it. Slick Barrier is most effective when painted around the foundation of a home, preventing scorpions from using the home as a hideout during monsoon, all summer and winter long. Removing their shelter is the most effective method for maintaining a scorpion-free home.
While the idea of encountering a scorpion can be terrifying to any Arizona residents who’ve only seen photos, it’s important to know these facts so homeowners can take proper actions like using Slick Barrier DIY products or Slick Barrier professional services, to protect their home. To read more about the Slick Barrier product, visit slickbarrier.com.
Aaron Gonzales is founder and COO of Gilbert-based Slick Barrier.
