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Striped Bark Scorpions in Ellis County: What to Know and How to Keep Them Out

Writer: Daniel Jernigan
Daniel Jernigan
6 hours ago
2 min read

Finding a scorpion in the bathtub is a surprise, but in Ellis County it is usually just one kind of scorpion, and there is plenty you can do about it. Here are friendly answers based on Texas A&M AgriLife research.

What kind of scorpion is in my house?

Almost certainly the striped bark scorpion. Texas has 18 scorpion species, but this is the only one found throughout the state and the only one in eastern Texas. Adults are about 2½ inches long, yellowish tan with two broad dark stripes down the back, with slender pincers and a long, slender tail.

Are striped bark scorpion stings dangerous?

Texas A&M says stings from Texas scorpions cause only moderate reactions in most people. They can be quite painful, and as with any venom, allergic reactions are possible.

General guidance only: clean the area with soap and water and use a cool compress or ice pack for pain. If a child is stung, call the Texas Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away. Call 911 for trouble breathing, muscle twitching, or other serious symptoms. If you are worried about a sting or symptoms don't go away, call your doctor or the Poison Center. This is general information, not medical advice.

Why are scorpions coming inside?

Striped bark scorpions climb walls and trees and often live in attics. During hot weather, they may move down into living areas to escape attic heat.

How do I keep scorpions out of my house?

Texas A&M says scorpions are hard to control with insecticides alone, so start with the area around your home:

  • Clear trash, logs, boards, stones, and bricks from around the house.

  • Keep grass mowed and trim branches away from the roof.

  • Only bring firewood inside when it's going straight on the fire.

  • Add weather-stripping to loose doors and windows, and keep screens in good repair.

  • Seal around roof eaves, pipes, and other cracks.

Should I block weep holes in my brick?

Yes, Texas A&M recommends plugging weep holes in brick or stone veneer with copper mesh, pieces of nylon scouring pad, or small squares of screen wire. Steel wool also works but rusts when wet, so use it only on darker brick.

How do I find scorpions at night?

Scorpions are nocturnal, hiding by day and hunting at night. A Texas A&M veterinarian notes that ultraviolet (black) light makes scorpions glow, so a nighttime check with a UV flashlight can help you find them.

Need a hand?

If you'd rather have a local pro take a look, Stroope Pest Control is happy to help. We're locally owned, right here in Ellis County, and we serve Waxahachie, Red Oak, Midlothian, Ennis, Ovilla, Glenn Heights, Italy, and Forreston.

When you have problems, we have solutions. Call (972) 938-2129.

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