Black Widows and Scorpions Around Bakersfield Homes
Hot, dry weather and plenty of hiding places make Kern County garages, sheds and yards good habitat for black widows and scorpions.
Request pest controlRecognising black widows
Shiny black, round-bodied spiders with a red hourglass marking underneath. Webs are irregular and messy, usually low and in sheltered spots.
Where they hide
Garages, sheds, meter boxes, block walls, outdoor furniture, pool equipment, woodpiles and stored boxes.
Scorpions
Scorpions shelter under rocks, boards and debris by day and come out at night. Homes near open land see more of them.
Avoiding bites and stings
Wear gloves when moving stored items, shake out shoes and clothes left in the garage, and use a flashlight outside at night.
If bitten or stung
Clean the area and seek medical advice, especially for children, older adults or severe symptoms.
Reduce habitat
Clear clutter, store items in sealed bins off the floor, move woodpiles away from walls and seal gaps.
Professional treatment
Targeted treatment of hiding places, plus control of the insects they eat, reduces numbers.
Get help
Outdoor storage
Store garden gloves, boots and tools in closed bins or hang them up off the ground. Black widows readily move into anything left on a garage floor or patio for a few weeks.
Pool areas
Pool equipment, pump housings and the underside of pool furniture are favourite hiding spots for black widows. Check before reaching into them, and clear webs regularly.
Lighting
Outdoor lights attract insects, which attract spiders and scorpions. Yellow bulbs draw fewer insects, and switching off lights you don't need helps.
Children's play areas
Check sandboxes, toy bins, playhouses and outdoor shoes regularly. Store toys in sealed bins rather than open boxes against walls.
More pest control guides
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