Scorpions can be found from the most dry, hot deserts to the rainforests sometimes living well over 100 feet above the forest floor.

Identifying a scorpion is pretty easy. The species range in size from a half an inch to over six inches in length. They all look similar featuring two pinchers at the front, a head/body combination, four legs on each side and a long tail that may be seen flat or curled over the back facing forward when in a defensive position. The end of the tail is ball-shaped with a hook shaped stinger.

Scorpions are arachnids which many don’t realize (I know I didn’t). Their 8 legs and head/body combo have the same body characteristics as spiders.

Since we are in Georgia, I want to share information related to the species native to our area. There are only two species in central and north Georgia and rest easy because their stings are not “deadly.” The two are shown in the picture I have included. On the left is the Striped Bark Scorpion and on the right, is the Devil Scorpion.

The Striped Bark Scorpion is found in the coastal plain and sandy soil habitats nesting in areas of long-leaf pine. They are also seen on many of Georgia’s barrier islands. The three dotted stripes running down their backs are a good way to identify them. These reach one to one and a half inches in length not including the tail.

The Devil Scorpion is very common in many areas of Atlanta. They are found anywhere from Macon northward throughout all North Georgia. Their color is a very uniform dark brown and reach one to one and a half inches in length not including the tail.

The female Devil and Striped Bark scorpions can have 8 to 25 babies per cycle. Newborn scorpions are very tiny and white but have all the other attributes of an adult body… just miniature. They are carried on the mother’s back until their first molt when they start turning a brownish color. If you spot a mother with babies on her back do not mess with her. She is in constant defensive mode! I have included a picture so you know what to look for.

Scorpions found in Georgia homes are usually spotted in sinks or bathtubs where they fall in during the night in search of prey. They can’t get out because of the slippery porcelain or fiberglass. They wander inside homes sometimes as they look for prey, which happens to be many of the other common house pests we don’t enjoy in our homes either. I am sure these scorpions would rather be outside in their natural habitat. They do not look to sting humans or domestic pets. They will only sting if they feel threatened and this includes humans trying to handle them. The sting has been compared to that of a bee sting and subsides to little pain within 30 minutes. Though most people don’t have a bad reaction to these guys always take precaution and seek medical attention if you or the victim feel ill.

If you find a scorpion, I wouldn’t recommend you try to catch or kill it and there are probably more if you see one. Give us a call here at Bug Gurus. We will do a thorough pest treatment solution which will eliminate all pests from your home, including the scorpion.

The rain in Northeast Georgia this summer has been relentless! With this we are all experiencing more mosquitos! So what makes us so “attractive” to these guys? First off, Carbon dioxide (CO2). Carbon dioxide is at the top of the list for a mosquito’s search for food (blood). So basically anytime your heart rate is elevated, your body will produce more CO2 . Whether you’re jogging, playing outdoors, drinking alcohol or even eating spicy foods you become even more irresistible to these pesky pains! Below are some mosquito deterrent tips you can use and some money wasters not to use.

Almost any breeze above one mile per hour makes it very difficult for mosquitoes to fly. Try to pick a breezy spot for your summer outing. No breeze? If possible plug-in fans around your gathering area. Keep the flow of air directed at the lower half and head areas because mosquitoes will avoid the wind. This also helps with flys!

Wear tight woven apparel and avoid dark colors because they are more visible to mosquitos.

As hard as it is, try to resist the urge to scratch!

Natural Itch Relief Ideas:

Try using raw onion or vinegar if available. You will feel a mild sting but will only for a few seconds. Lavender oil or witch hazel will also stop the sting and itch and are a bit easier to carry than an onion or vinegar. If you’ve come home with bites all over, run a bath of lukewarm water with either epsom salts or milled oatmeal for whole body relief.

Many products that are not very effective:

I have researched and read numerous reviews on products on the market claiming to “rid mosquitos” and keep your skin “bite free.” Unfortunately, many of them are a waste of money. Most of the wrist bands, high tech UV traps, tiki torches and candles are a waste of money. While citronella and other oils can be natural insect repellants again, they are not very efficient or effective.

Good Luck and I wishing you a “Bite Free” Summer!

The Argiope aurantia is more commonly known as the yellow garden spider. Garden spiders will spin webs in plants, in porch overhangs, between trees, and in other outdoor spots.

Adult females reach lengths from 3/4 to 1 1/8 in., while males reach only 1/4 – 3/8 in. In both sexes, the shiny, egg-shaped abdomen has striking yellow or orange markings on a black background. The forward part of the body is covered with short, silvery hairs. Legs are mostly black, with red or yellow portions near the body.

I know these guys n gals look scary but they truly are beneficial to insect control especially in your garden. They are not aggressive by nature but if threatened my bite. Their bite is compared to a bee sting and will get a bit swollen and red but not dangerous. I suggest if you see one in or near your garden you simply remember where it’s web is and try and leave it alone.