Beware The Sting: This Painful Pest Is Invading Texas Homes Right Now
This fall, folks all over Texas are on alert as there's been a noticeable uptick in scorpion sightings. Scorpions, known for their mean look and painful sting, are becoming more common in both rural and urban areas of the state.
According to an article from Chron, the surge is not only a concern for Texas residents but also piques the curiosity of many who wonder why scorpions are appearing in greater numbers. Let's take a look at some of the possible reasons why.
BEWARE THE STING: THIS PAINFUL PEST IS INVADING TEXAS HOMES RIGHT NOW
Scorpions are no strangers to the land of Texas, but this season, they're turning up in places where they're usually rare. For instance, my bathroom. I spotted one this week and that's never happened before. The experts suggest several reasons for this increase.
First, the weather plays a big role. Texas has experienced a mix of warm temperatures and occasional rains which creates the ideal environment for scorpions to thrive and reproduce.
Another reason is urban expansion. As cities and areas grow, they invade the natural habitats of scorpions. This leads to more encounters with the creepy critters. Also, scorpions are drawn to areas with an abundance of food, like insects, which are often found near houses and dwellings.
While scorpions can deliver a painful sting, they are generally not aggressive towards humans and will only sting in self-defense. Most (but not all) scorpion stings can be compared to a bee sting in terms of pain. Some people might have allergic reactions, and in rare cases, stings from certain species can be more severe.
The best defense Texans have against scorpions is to seal cracks and openings in their homes, clear away debris where scorpions like to hide, and be cautious when moving objects where scorpions may have taken shelter.
While seeing more scorpions can be alarming, understanding these creatures and taking preventive measures can help minimize any encounters. By being careful and staying alert, Texans can power through this scorpion-heavy season with fewer stings and more peace of mind.
UGH! Here are 9 of the Most Common Scorpions You'll See in Texas [PHOTOS]
Gallery Credit: Tara Holley