Scorpions in Florida – Types, Danger & Treatment

Scorpions are a predatory animal and are often called as cousins of spiders, mites, and ticks. They normally have 8 legs and are recognized with the unique feature of their curved tail. This curved tail is what delivers a venomous sting to the prey. Scorpions that are found in Florida are usually restricted to 3 species of their kind.

These scorpions are capable of carrying a venomous sting that humans should be careful of. A vast variety of scorpions are harmless to humans. Even then, medical assistance is preferred if an event occurs. The usual feeding time of scorpions is at night. During the day, scorpions hide under rocks. The reason why they hide during the day is that of loss of moisture. Scorpions go in complete hibernation during the winter and cold months. They have hair on their legs and other body parts to protect from vibrations of the air.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF SCORPIONS IN FLORIDA

Florida is famous for the different type of insects and spiders found there. It is most famous for its scorpion breed. The three main types of scorpions that are found in Florida are the

1. Florida bark scorpion
2. The Hentz striped scorpion
3. The Guiana striped scorpion

These species of scorpions that are found in Florida live up to 3-5 years. They are harmless and can not produce a fatal sting to humans. They can be found under debris and stones in yards.

1. Florida bark scorpion

This type of scorpion is considered to be the largest among its types. It is known as the slender brown scorpion. These grow up to 4 inches in size. They are tan-brown in color with orange-red legs. Their sting is painful but not fatal. They feed on termites and spiders. The Florida bark scorpion is often found in southern California to southern Arizona.

2. The Hentz striped scorpion

This is the most common type of scorpion in Florida. Their size measurements are of 2-2.5 inches. It has a brown body with dark stripes all across. It also has yellow and green mixed stripes underneath. These feed on cockroaches.

3. The Guiana striped scorpion

The Guiana striped scorpion is the smallest in size. Their size forms up to 1-3 inches.

These can be easily recognized due to their yellowish body and black stripes. They are found under stones and debris. Their sting effect lasts until 3-5 hours.

DOES THE SCORPION STING HURT?

The above-mentioned scorpions in Florida sting when captured, controlled or restricted in small spaces. These sting bites are very painful and can cause allergic reactions. However, these sting bites are not fatal. These sting bites lead to experiencing discomfort and painful reactions.

HOW TO GET RID OF SCORPIONS?

Following are some of the effective ways to get rid of scorpions

1. Avoid building spaces where they can crawl. These include big stones and a pile of debris in a newly constructed house. The cracks in the ceilings of the house are also a gateway for scorpions.
2. People grow vegetables near the house where scorpions are also found. Apply necessary insecticides and pesticides.
3. Put on treatment granules around all the sides of your residences.
4. A natural way to repel scorpions from entering your homes is to sprinkle cinnamon in creaks and corners.

SYMPTOMS OF SCORPION STING

When a human being is stung by a scorpion, it is necessary to identify the symptoms as soon as possible to deal with it to heal it naturally. A delay in identification can lead to the severity of infection and disease. Following are the most common symptoms of scorpion sting bites to look out for

• Painful burning and numbing sensation at the sting site
• Redness or swelling at the sting site
• Monitoring the allergic reactions caused by it
• Uncommon symptoms including vomiting, fainting, sweating or foaming at the mouth
• Irregular and uncomfortable heartbeat
• Experiencing pain in the neck, head or while walking
• Muscle spasm of the individual.

HOW TO TREAT A SCORPION STING AT HOME

When stung by a scorpion in Florida, it is necessary to take immediate action. The following are the ways to treat a scorpion stung naturally.

The first action to be taken is to locate the sting of the scorpion on the human body. It is not necessary that the sting will become red or swell up.

Once the sting is located, it should be thoroughly washed with soap and water to clean it of any germs. This will prevent any diseases and infections. It will also clean any leftover venom from the sting site.

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Now, the individual should keep the sting very still and below the heart level. This is necessary to stop the venom from spreading to other parts of the body. Fast movements by the patient will also help the venom to spread so the patient should be calm and still

The majority of the scorpion stings are non-fatal but it is necessary to console the victim to stop them from getting worried.

The most efficient way to slow the venom from spreading is to apply ice cubes or ice pack to the scorpion sting. This treatment should be done within two hours of the injury.

Scorpion stings are extremely painful which is why painkillers are necessary to be able to bear the pain.

If the patient is not getting any better and is experiencing shortness of breath, fast heartbeat and spasms, then immediately call for medical assistance.

The best way to clean a place of scorpions is to call for professional teams. They are equipped with the proper machines and treatments to kill them.

Once you feel that you have recovered and feel better, it is necessary to consult a doctor so as to be completely sure.

Verdict:

This is all about scorpions, and not just restricted to Florida. If you happen to get stung by any, make sure to follow the instructions if at home or get medical help as soon as possible.