How to Spot and Remove Scorpions in Your Phoenix Home

Phoenix, Arizona, is renowned for its desert landscapes, vibrant sunsets, and year-round warmth—qualities that make it a desirable place to live. But with this climate comes a less welcome resident: scorpions. Among the most common and concerning species in the region is the bark scorpion (Centruroides exilicauda), the only scorpion in North America whose venom can pose a serious threat to humans, especially children, the elderly, and those with allergies. With over 2,000 scorpion-related emergency room visits reported annually in Maricopa County, understanding how to spot and remove scorpions from your home isn’t just a matter of comfort—it’s a critical component of household safety.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to identifying scorpion activity in your Phoenix residence, safely removing existing pests, and implementing long-term prevention strategies. Whether you’ve seen a scorpion in your bathroom, found one under your patio furniture, or simply want to protect your family proactively, this tutorial equips you with actionable, science-backed methods tailored to the unique challenges of the Sonoran Desert environment.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand Where Scorpions Hide

Before you can effectively remove scorpions, you must know where they’re likely to be hiding. Scorpions are nocturnal, cold-blooded predators that seek out dark, moist, and sheltered environments to avoid the extreme daytime heat. In Phoenix homes, common hiding spots include:

• Under sinks and behind cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms
• Inside closets, especially those near exterior walls
• Beneath furniture, mattresses, and bedding
• In shoes, boots, or clothing left on the floor
• Behind baseboards, wall voids, and cracks in foundation
• Under potted plants, mulch, and woodpiles outside the home
• In garage clutter, toolboxes, and storage bins

Scorpions are drawn to areas where their prey—such as crickets, spiders, and ants—are abundant. If you have an insect infestation, you’re indirectly inviting scorpions into your home.

Step 2: Conduct a Nighttime Inspection with a UV Flashlight

One of the most effective ways to detect scorpions is by using a UV (ultraviolet) flashlight. Scorpion exoskeletons contain fluorescent compounds that glow a bright blue-green under UV light, making them easy to spot—even in total darkness.

To conduct an inspection:

1. Turn off all lights in your home after sunset.
2. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and long pants.
3. Slowly sweep the UV flashlight across floors, baseboards, walls, and under furniture.
4. Pay special attention to bathrooms, bedrooms, laundry rooms, and the garage.
5. If you see a glowing spot, do not touch it. Use a pair of tongs or a jar to capture and relocate the scorpion outside.

Perform this inspection weekly during peak scorpion season (April–October) and monthly during cooler months. Many homeowners discover their first scorpion during a UV inspection they didn’t know they needed.

Step 3: Seal Entry Points

Scorpions can squeeze through gaps as small as 1/16 of an inch. Their ability to enter homes through tiny cracks makes exclusion the most effective long-term strategy.

Inspect your home’s exterior and interior for the following vulnerabilities:

• Cracks in the foundation or around utility penetrations (pipes, wires)
• Gaps under exterior doors and around windows
• Missing or damaged weatherstripping
• Unscreened vents (attic, crawl space, dryer)
• Openings around air conditioning units

Use the following materials to seal these gaps:

• High-quality silicone or polyurethane caulk for small cracks
• Expanding foam for larger voids behind baseboards or around pipes
• Door sweeps and threshold seals for exterior doors
• Steel wool and caulk for gaps around plumbing and wiring
• Mesh screens for vents (1/16-inch or smaller mesh)

Pay particular attention to the north and east sides of your home, as these areas retain more moisture and are preferred by scorpions seeking cooler, damper microclimates.

Step 4: Remove Clutter and Debris

Scorpions thrive in clutter. Outdoor debris and indoor disorganization create ideal hiding spots and breeding grounds for their prey.

Indoors:

• Store clothing, towels, and linens in sealed plastic bins—not on the floor.
• Keep boxes off the ground; elevate them on shelves or pallets.
• Declutter storage rooms, basements, and garages regularly.
• Don’t leave shoes or boots outside or near entryways.

Outdoors:

• Remove woodpiles, rock piles, and construction debris from within 2 feet of your home.
• Keep grass trimmed and eliminate tall weeds near foundations.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house and elevate it off the ground.
• Clear leaf litter, mulch, and compost piles from areas adjacent to your home.
• Use gravel or stone as a barrier between landscaping and your home’s foundation.

By minimizing hiding places, you make your home significantly less attractive to scorpions and their prey.

Step 5: Eliminate Food Sources

Scorpions feed on insects. If you have ants, crickets, cockroaches, or spiders in your home, you’re essentially serving a buffet to scorpions.

Take the following steps to reduce insect populations:

• Store food in airtight containers and clean up crumbs immediately.
• Fix leaky faucets and pipes to reduce moisture that attracts insects.
• Use sticky traps in kitchens and bathrooms to monitor and reduce insect activity.
• Apply insecticides labeled for indoor use only if necessary—preferably in cracks and crevices, not broadly.
• Consider professional pest control for persistent ant or cockroach infestations.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the most effective approach: reduce access, eliminate food, and monitor populations without relying solely on chemicals.

Step 6: Safely Remove Scorpions You Find

If you encounter a scorpion indoors, remain calm. Most species in Arizona are not aggressive unless provoked. Here’s how to remove them safely:

1. Do not attempt to kill it with your foot or a shoe. This increases the risk of being stung.
2. Use a pair of long-handled tongs or a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment.
3. If using a vacuum, seal the bag or canister immediately after use and dispose of it outdoors.
4. If using tongs, gently guide the scorpion into a wide-mouthed glass jar or plastic container.
5. Cover the container with a lid or stiff paper and secure it.
6. Carry the container outside, away from your home’s foundation, and release the scorpion onto bare soil or rock.

Never handle scorpions with bare hands—even dead ones can reflexively sting. Always assume they are dangerous.

Step 7: Install Outdoor Lighting Strategically

Outdoor lights attract insects, which in turn attract scorpions. To minimize this effect:

• Replace white or blue-tinted bulbs with yellow “bug lights” or LED lights with a warm color temperature (under 3000K).
• Install motion-sensor lights instead of constant-on fixtures.
• Keep porch and patio lights turned off when not needed.
• Use downward-facing fixtures to minimize light spill onto the ground.

By reducing insect attraction at the perimeter of your home, you reduce the likelihood of scorpions approaching your entry points.

Step 8: Create a Scorpion-Resistant Landscaping Buffer

Landscaping can either invite or repel scorpions. Design your yard with scorpion deterrence in mind:

• Use hardscaping materials like decomposed granite, gravel, or pavers near the home’s foundation.
• Choose low-water, low-cover plants such as cacti, succulents, and desert wildflowers instead of dense shrubs.
• Keep irrigation systems away from the foundation and avoid overwatering plants near the house.
• Install a 6- to 12-inch gravel barrier between lawn areas and your home’s exterior walls.
• Trim tree branches that touch or overhang your roof or walls.

These modifications reduce moisture retention and eliminate cover, making your property less hospitable to scorpions.

Best Practices

Practice Daily Vigilance

Scorpion prevention is not a one-time task. It requires consistent habits. Make these practices part of your daily routine:

• Shake out shoes and boots before putting them on.
• Check bedding and towels before use, especially during summer months.
• Keep bathrooms dry—wipe down sinks, tubs, and showers after use.
• Store pet food in sealed containers and clean up spills immediately.
• Install UV lights in garages and basements for quick nightly checks.

These small actions compound over time to significantly reduce risk.

Use Natural Repellents Wisely

While there’s no scientifically proven “scorpion repellent,” some natural substances can help deter them:

• Cedar oil: Sprayed around baseboards and entry points, it may repel scorpions due to its strong scent.
• Diatomaceous earth (DE): Food-grade DE can be applied in cracks and along baseboards. It damages the exoskeletons of insects and arachnids, causing dehydration. Reapply after rain or cleaning.
• Essential oils: Peppermint, lavender, and tea tree oils may have mild deterrent effects when diluted and sprayed around entry points. Use with caution—some oils can be toxic to pets.

Never rely solely on natural remedies. They are supplementary tools, not replacements for sealing, cleaning, and exclusion.

Keep Pets Safe

Dogs and cats are curious and may play with or attempt to catch scorpions. A scorpion sting can be painful and, in rare cases, life-threatening to small animals.

• Supervise pets during evening outdoor time.
• Use pet-safe pest control products in and around the home.
• Keep pet food and water bowls indoors, away from entryways.
• Consider a pet-safe UV flashlight to inspect your yard before letting pets out.

If your pet is stung, watch for signs of distress: whimpering, swelling, drooling, tremors, or difficulty breathing. Seek veterinary care immediately.

Know When to Call a Professional

While DIY methods are effective for most households, professional help is recommended if:

• You find multiple scorpions per week despite taking preventive measures.
• You suspect a nest in your attic, crawl space, or walls.
• You have young children, elderly family members, or immunocompromised individuals in the home.
• You’ve been stung and experience severe symptoms (difficulty breathing, numbness, nausea).

Licensed pest control technicians in Phoenix use specialized equipment, including thermal imaging and professional-grade sealants, to identify and eliminate hidden infestations. They can also provide follow-up inspections and customized treatment plans.

Tools and Resources

Essential Tools for Scorpion Detection and Removal

• UV Flashlight: Look for a 365–395 nm wavelength model with at least 50 lumens. Recommended brands: Nitecore, Streamlight, or Black Diamond.
• Long-handled Tongs: Use gardening or BBQ tongs with a secure grip.
• Wide-Mouth Glass Jars: With a lid or breathable cover for temporary containment.
• Sealant Caulk: 100% silicone or polyurethane for outdoor and indoor use.
• Door Sweeps and Weatherstripping: Choose compression-type seals for durability.
• Sticky Traps: For monitoring insect activity (e.g., Victor or Catchmaster brands).
• Shop Vacuum with Hose Attachment: For quick, safe removal without direct contact.
• Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth: For use in cracks and along baseboards.

Recommended Educational Resources

• Arizona State University’s Urban Entomology Lab: Offers free fact sheets on scorpion behavior and control.
• University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Publishes seasonal pest alerts and home pest management guides.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Scorpion Stings: Medical guidance on symptoms and treatment.
• Phoenix Herpetological Society: Provides community education on desert wildlife, including scorpions.
• YouTube Channels: “Desert Survival” and “Arizona Pest Control” feature real-world scorpion removal videos.

Mobile Apps and Online Tools

• iNaturalist: A citizen science app to log and identify scorpion sightings (helps track regional patterns).
• Scorpion Tracker (Community Map): An unofficial but widely used map by Phoenix residents to report sightings and avoid high-risk areas.
• Weather Apps: Monitor humidity and temperature trends—scorpion activity spikes after monsoon rains.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Family in Gilbert Who Found Three Scorpions in One Week

A family in Gilbert, Arizona, began finding scorpions in their children’s bedrooms and bathroom. After using a UV flashlight, they discovered scorpions hiding under the sink, behind the toilet tank, and under a stack of winter coats in the closet.

They took the following actions:

• Sealed all gaps under the bathroom cabinets with silicone caulk.
• Installed door sweeps on all exterior doors.
• Switched to yellow LED porch lights.
• Removed a large pile of mulch from beside the house and replaced it with gravel.
• Used diatomaceous earth along baseboards and in wall voids.

Within two weeks, no new scorpions were found. They now conduct monthly UV inspections and keep a flashlight by their bedside.

Example 2: The Garage Clutter Problem in Mesa

A homeowner in Mesa kept finding scorpions in his garage, especially near his lawnmower and toolboxes. He assumed the scorpions were coming from the desert nearby.

Upon inspection, he discovered that his garage was filled with cardboard boxes, old newspapers, and unused furniture—all of which provided perfect hiding spots. He also had a large pile of firewood stacked against the garage wall.

His solution:

• Removed all cardboard and stored items in plastic bins with lids.
• Elevated the firewood on pallets and moved it 25 feet from the house.
• Installed a door sweep and sealed gaps around the garage door.
• Applied a perimeter spray of food-grade DE along the garage floor edges.

He has not seen a scorpion in his garage in over 10 months.

Example 3: The New Home in Scottsdale with a Hidden Infestation

A couple purchased a new home in Scottsdale and assumed it was pest-free. Within three weeks, they found a scorpion in their bedroom. They called a professional inspector.

The inspector discovered a hidden colony living in the attic, where insulation had been improperly installed, leaving gaps behind the drywall. The scorpions were entering through a gap around the attic vent and traveling down into the living spaces.

Resolution:

• Sealed all attic penetrations with metal flashing and foam.
• Installed fine mesh screens over all vents.
• Removed excess insulation near the eaves to reduce moisture buildup.
• Applied a residual insecticide treatment along the attic perimeter (by licensed technician).

Since the intervention, the home has remained scorpion-free. The homeowners now conduct quarterly attic inspections.

FAQs

Are all scorpions in Phoenix dangerous?

No. While Arizona is home to over 40 species of scorpions, only the bark scorpion (Centruroides exilicauda) has venom potent enough to require medical attention in healthy adults. Other species may cause localized pain and swelling, but their stings are rarely serious. However, because it’s difficult to identify species without magnification, treat all scorpions as potentially dangerous.

Can scorpions climb walls and get into beds?

Yes. Bark scorpions are excellent climbers and can scale smooth surfaces like drywall, wood, and even glass. They are known to crawl onto beds, especially if clothing or bedding touches the floor. Always keep bedding off the ground and avoid leaving clothes on the floor overnight.

Do scorpions come inside because of the heat?

Not exactly. Scorpions prefer temperatures between 70°F and 90°F. During extreme Phoenix heat (above 110°F), they seek cooler, shaded areas inside homes. They’re not drawn to heat—they’re drawn to shelter from it.

Is it safe to use bug bombs or foggers to kill scorpions?

No. Bug bombs are ineffective against scorpions because they hide in cracks and crevices where the mist cannot penetrate. They also pose health risks to humans and pets and can contaminate surfaces. Focus on exclusion and targeted treatments instead.

How long do scorpions live?

Scorpions can live between 3 to 8 years in the wild, and even longer in protected indoor environments. A single female can produce 25–35 offspring per brood, and they can reproduce multiple times in their lifespan. This makes prevention far more effective than reactive removal.

Can scorpions survive without water?

Scorpions are highly efficient at conserving water and can survive for up to a year without food or water. However, they are attracted to moisture sources—leaky pipes, damp basements, and humid bathrooms make your home more inviting.

Should I kill scorpions I find in my yard?

Not necessarily. Scorpions play a vital role in the desert ecosystem by controlling insect populations. If they’re outside and away from your home, it’s often better to leave them alone. Focus on keeping them from entering your living spaces.

What should I do if I get stung?

For most people, a scorpion sting causes immediate, sharp pain, numbness, or tingling. Apply a cold compress and elevate the affected limb. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Blurred vision or muscle twitching
• Nausea, vomiting, or excessive sweating
• Swelling that spreads beyond the sting site

Children and the elderly are at higher risk. If in doubt, go to the nearest emergency room.

Can I prevent scorpions completely?

Complete prevention is nearly impossible in Phoenix due to the surrounding desert environment. However, with consistent exclusion, clutter control, and regular inspections, you can reduce scorpion encounters to near zero. Most households that follow this guide see a 90%+ reduction in sightings within 60 days.

Conclusion

Living in Phoenix means embracing the beauty—and the challenges—of the Sonoran Desert. Scorpions are a natural part of that ecosystem, but they don’t have to be a threat in your home. By understanding their behavior, using the right tools, and implementing consistent preventive measures, you can transform your residence from a potential refuge into a scorpion-resistant sanctuary.

This guide has provided you with actionable, real-world strategies—from UV inspections and sealing entry points to landscaping modifications and safe removal techniques. The key is not perfection, but persistence. A single missed gap, a pile of clutter left unattended, or a neglected door sweep can undo months of effort.

Start today. Conduct your first UV inspection this evening. Seal one crack. Remove one pile of debris. These small steps compound into powerful results. Your family’s safety, peace of mind, and quality of life are worth the effort.

Remember: Scorpions are not invincible. They are vulnerable to simple, smart, and consistent actions. With knowledge and diligence, you don’t just remove scorpions—you reclaim your home.