What are the common myths and facts about scorpion stings. How can you identify a scorpion sting. What are the proper first aid measures for scorpion stings. How long do scorpion sting symptoms typically last. Are all scorpion stings fatal.

Debunking Common Scorpion Sting Myths

Scorpions, while often feared, are fascinating creatures that play a crucial role in their ecosystems. However, misconceptions about their stings abound. Let’s examine some of the most prevalent myths:

Are All Scorpion Stings Fatal?

Contrary to popular belief, most scorpion stings are not fatal. In Arizona, for instance, only the Arizona bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpuratus) can produce severe neurotoxic symptoms. Even then, the majority of people stung by this species can be safely managed at home with proper care and observation.

The Truth About Baby Scorpions

A common myth suggests that baby scorpions are deadlier than adults. In reality, the age of a scorpion does not determine the potency of its venom. Venom from scorpions of all sizes and ages is equally potent. The misconception likely stems from the smaller size of bark scorpions compared to other species.

Do Scorpion Stings Always Leave a Mark?

Unlike bee stings, scorpion stings often do not leave visible marks. The small size of bark scorpions, in particular, makes it challenging to locate the puncture wound. Even medical professionals may struggle to identify the exact location of the sting.

Ice Packs vs. Cool Compresses

While it might seem logical to apply an ice pack to alleviate scorpion sting symptoms, this can actually cause symptoms to return with greater intensity once the ice is removed. Instead, experts recommend using a cool compress. To create one, soak washcloths in ice water and apply them to the sting site, rotating as needed.

The Limited Role of Antihistamines

Contrary to popular belief, antihistamines like Benadryl have limited effectiveness in treating scorpion stings. Scorpion venom rarely causes severe allergic reactions, and antihistamines do little to counteract the neurotoxic effects of the venom.

Essential Facts About Scorpion Stings

Now that we’ve dispelled some myths, let’s explore crucial facts about scorpion stings that everyone should know:

The Venomous Nature of Scorpions

All scorpions are venomous, but the potency of their venom varies greatly among species. For most scorpion species, a sting will only cause localized pain and discomfort, typically resolving within a few hours.

The Fluorescent Phenomenon

Did you know that scorpions glow in the dark? This fascinating characteristic is due to a hyaline layer in their exoskeleton that reflects certain wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light. While the exact purpose of this feature remains unclear, scientists believe it may help scorpions navigate their surroundings or attract prey.

Antivenom Treatment for Severe Cases

For severe cases of bark scorpion stings, particularly in children, antivenom treatment is available. This treatment is highly effective in reversing symptoms, often allowing patients to be discharged shortly after administration. However, most adult cases don’t require antivenom and can be managed with pain relievers and sedatives.

Duration of Scorpion Sting Symptoms

Typically, scorpion sting symptoms last about three days. The most intense symptoms usually occur within the first six hours, after which new or worsening symptoms are rare. Complete resolution of symptoms generally takes 48 to 72 hours, although in rare cases, some individuals report persistent symptoms for weeks or even months.

Common Symptoms of Scorpion Stings

The most typical symptoms of a scorpion sting include a burning pain at the sting site, along with numbness and tingling in the surrounding area. These symptoms occur because the venom affects nerve endings, causing them to fire improperly. Importantly, scorpion venom doesn’t travel through the bloodstream, so it doesn’t directly impact vital organs like the brain, heart, or lungs.

Identifying Scorpion Species and Their Habitats

Understanding the different scorpion species in your area can help you assess the potential risk of encounters and stings. In Arizona alone, there are between 40 to 50 different scorpion species. Let’s explore some of the most common species and their preferred habitats:

• Arizona Bark Scorpion: Often found in trees, woodpiles, and crevices of buildings
• Giant Hairy Scorpion: Prefers desert environments and can be found under rocks or in burrows
• Striped Tail Scorpion: Common in rocky areas and often hides under loose bark or in crevices
• Yellow Ground Scorpion: Typically found in sandy or gravelly soil in desert regions

By familiarizing yourself with local scorpion species and their habitats, you can take appropriate precautions to minimize the risk of encounters.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping Scorpions at Bay

While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks of scorpion encounters, there are several effective strategies you can employ to reduce the likelihood of scorpions entering your home or yard:

1. Seal entry points: Inspect your home’s exterior for cracks or gaps and seal them to prevent scorpions from entering.
2. Remove hiding spots: Keep your yard free of debris, woodpiles, and dense vegetation where scorpions might hide.
3. Use protective gear: When working outdoors, wear thick gloves and closed-toe shoes.
4. Install weatherstripping: Apply weatherstripping to doors and windows to create a tight seal.
5. Consider professional pest control: Regular treatments by a pest control professional can help keep scorpions and their prey insects at bay.

By implementing these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of scorpion encounters in and around your home.

First Aid for Scorpion Stings: What to Do and What to Avoid

In the event of a scorpion sting, knowing the proper first aid procedures can make a significant difference in the outcome. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

Immediate Actions

1. Remain calm: Panic can increase heart rate and potentially spread venom faster.
2. Clean the area: Wash the sting site with soap and water to prevent infection.
3. Apply a cool compress: Use damp, cool washcloths to provide relief without risking rebound symptoms.
4. Elevate the affected limb: This can help reduce swelling and pain.
5. Remove constrictive items: Take off any jewelry or tight clothing near the sting site in case of swelling.

What to Avoid

• Do not apply ice directly to the sting site.
• Avoid using a tourniquet or attempting to suck out the venom.
• Don’t take antihistamines unless advised by a medical professional.
• Refrain from consuming alcohol or caffeine, which can interact with the venom.

While most scorpion stings can be managed at home, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if severe symptoms develop or if the victim is a child, elderly, or has underlying health conditions.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Scorpion Sting

While many scorpion stings can be safely managed at home, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. Be aware of the following signs and symptoms that indicate a need for professional medical care:

Severe Symptoms Requiring Emergency Care

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Uncontrolled muscle twitching or jerking movements
• Unusual head, neck, or eye movements
• Drooling or foaming at the mouth
• Severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain relievers
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as widespread hives or swelling

High-Risk Groups

Certain individuals are at higher risk of experiencing severe reactions to scorpion stings and should seek medical attention promptly, even if symptoms seem mild:

• Children under 6 years old
• Elderly individuals
• People with compromised immune systems
• Those with pre-existing health conditions, especially respiratory or cardiovascular issues
• Pregnant women

When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional. They can assess the severity of the sting and provide appropriate treatment, which may include pain management, observation, or in severe cases, administration of antivenom.

The Ecological Role of Scorpions: Beyond the Sting

While scorpions are often viewed with fear due to their ability to sting, it’s important to recognize their valuable role in ecosystems. Understanding the ecological importance of scorpions can foster a more balanced perspective on these fascinating arachnids:

Natural Pest Control

Scorpions are efficient predators that help control populations of insects and other small arthropods. This natural pest control function can be particularly beneficial in agricultural settings, where scorpions may help reduce crop damage caused by insect pests.

Food Source for Other Animals

Despite their formidable appearance, scorpions serve as prey for various animals, including birds, reptiles, and small mammals. They play a crucial role in the food web of many ecosystems, particularly in arid and semi-arid environments.

Indicators of Environmental Health

Scorpions are often considered bioindicators – species that can provide valuable information about the health of an ecosystem. Their presence or absence can offer insights into environmental conditions and the overall biodiversity of an area.

Medical Research

Scorpion venom, while potentially dangerous to humans, is also a subject of intense scientific research. Components of scorpion venom are being studied for potential medical applications, including:

• Development of new pain medications
• Cancer research and potential treatments
• Anti-microbial properties that could lead to new antibiotics

By recognizing the ecological and potential medical benefits of scorpions, we can develop a more nuanced understanding of these creatures beyond their ability to sting. This perspective can lead to more informed and balanced approaches to scorpion management and conservation efforts.

Scorpion Myths and Facts You Should Know

They’re creepy and they’re crawly, and one may be hiding in your shoe! If you live in the desert or a semi-dry climate, you’ve probably encountered a scorpion or two in your yard or house—and possibly even stepped on one. Ouch!

While scorpions actually are pretty amazing and beneficial creatures, many of us fear them because they can sting. Much of this fear stems from the myths that are out there about them. It may be hard to separate fact from fiction.

Bryan Kuhn, PharmD, a pharmacist and poison education specialist at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, dispels five myths and confirms five facts about scorpion stings.

5 Myths About Scorpion Stings

MYTH #1: A scorpion sting is fatal.

There are between 40 to 50 different scorpion species found across Arizona, and only the Arizona bark scorpion (Centruroides sculpuratus) can produce severe neurotoxic symptoms – though most people stung by one can be safely managed and observed at home.

MYTH #2: Baby scorpions are deadlier.

The age of the scorpion doesn’t dictate if the venom is more dangerous than the venom of an adult scorpion. Venom from all scorpions, regardless of size, is still venom.

A bark scorpion, in general, is smaller in size than other species of scorpions so perhaps this is where this myth comes from. That said, baby bark scorpions aren’t potentially more venomous or dangerous than their older siblings or parents.

MYTH #3: Scorpion stings will always leave a mark.

Unlike a bee sting, scorpion stings often do not leave a mark. Given the small size of the bark scorpion, it’s often difficult to find the puncture wound. It’s not surprising that even when a patient comes into the urgent care or emergency department that the staff are also unable to determine the location of the puncture wound.

MYTH #4: Applying an ice pack is the best way to alleviate symptoms.

While an ice pack may seem like it will be useful in reducing the numbness and pain caused by a scorpion sting, symptoms can come back with greater intensity when the ice pack is removed.

Instead, use a cool compress applied to the sting site. To do this, get a bowl of water with some ice cubes and soak a few washcloths to use as damp, cool compresses. Place one of the washcloths on the sting site and rotate out with a fresh one as needed. This way you’ll provide the same level of relief without causing any rebound symptoms or potential frostbite to the skin.

MYTH #5: Antihistamines are useful after a scorpion sting.

Scorpion venom rarely produces a severe allergic reaction. Unless you have a severe allergic reaction, Benadryl and other antihistamines are of limited benefit in reducing the neurotoxic effects from a scorpion sting.

5 Facts About Scorpion Stings

FACT #1: Scorpions are venomous.

All scorpions are indeed venomous, though their venom varies greatly in potency. This means that if you’re stung by a species other than the bark scorpion, the symptoms will likely only include localized pain and discomfort that should resolve within an hour or two.

FACT #2: Scorpions glow in the dark.

Scorpions contain a hyaline layer in their exoskeleton that reflects certain wavelengths of the ultraviolet (UV) light spectrum. Though not completely understood why, it’s believed this allows the scorpions to either “see” their surroundings or perhaps attract their insect prey. Even fossils of ancient scorpions are still fluorescent under UV lights. Pretty cool!

FACT #3: Severe bark scorpions can be treated with antivenom.

There is an approved antivenom for severe bark scorpion-related symptoms, although most adults who seek treatment don’t meet the indication threshold. Most adults can be treated with strong pain relievers and sedatives to help tolerate symptoms when they’re at their most intense—roughly the first six hours.

The antivenom is generally reserved for severe symptoms in the pediatric population. It is very effective in reversing these symptoms, and children can generally be discharged to home after antivenom administration.

FACT #4: Symptoms from a scorpion sting usually last about three days.

For most patients, the majority of symptoms will be clear within the first six hours. After six hours, it’s unusual to see any new or worse symptoms. It can take up to 48 to 72 hours for those symptoms to significantly resolve, though in very rare instances, some patients report persistent symptoms for weeks to months afterward.

FACT #5: Typical symptoms include pain, numbness and tingling.

Patient’s often describe a burning pain at the presumed sting site. The venom attacks the nerve endings causing them to fire improperly, which can cause numbness and tingling around the site. The venom doesn’t travel in the bloodstream though, so it doesn’t affect your brain, heart or lungs. As the symptoms worsen, patients will describe muscle twitching or spasms, sometimes involving the tongue, and altered taste sensation or even a lump in their throat when swallowing.

Kids can have it the worst though. They can have severe muscle spasms and cramps and increased salivation to the extent that it becomes a choking hazard in the very young. Fortunately, in all these scenarios, there are different treatment strategies offered in an urgent care or emergency department that can address all these more serious cases of a scorpion sting.

In general, it’s good to remember that scorpions aren’t out to get you. They are really harmless unless provoked, so it’s important to follow these precautions:

• Shake clothes and shoes before putting them on
• Wear shoes, particularly at night
• Put on gloves when you are working in the yard
• Keep grass closely mowed and prune back bushes and overhanging tree branches

Here are other helpful tips to fight off scorpions and other critters.

In the rare chance a scorpion stings you and you begin to experience severe symptoms and/or an allergic reaction, please visit your nearest urgent care or emergency department or call the Poison and Drug Information Center’s number at 800-222-1222.

To find a Banner Health location near you, visit bannerhealth.com.

For additional information on scorpions, snakes and other creepy critters, check out these related articles:

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Scorpion Stings: Symptoms, Complications, & Treatment

Overview

What are scorpion stings?

Scorpions are a class of spider-like animal called arachnids. They live in warm and dry climates all over the world. In the United States, they are typically found in southwestern states.

Scorpions have a segmented tail. The tip of the tail holds a stinger and two glands that contain a poisonous substance (venom) that helps scorpions protect themselves. When surprised or threatened, a scorpion may poke the stinger into an animal or person and inject them with venom. People sometimes call this event a scorpion bite, but it is a sting, not a bite.

Most scorpion stings are not dangerous. But some scorpion stings can be life-threatening. There are about 1,500 species of scorpions in the world, but only about 30 have stings that are dangerous to people.

How common are scorpion stings?

Research shows about 1.5 million scorpion stings happen in the world each year.

What are possible complications of a scorpion sting?

Depending on the type of scorpion, the venom can cause pain or affect the nervous system and cause other serious health problems. These issues can include heart, breathing and muscle problems. It is important to get medical help if you have severe symptoms after a scorpion sting.

Scorpion stings are usually more dangerous to children than adults. The venom can have a stronger effect in a child’s smaller body.

Symptoms and Causes

What causes scorpion stings?

Scorpions typically live in populated areas. They often make their homes in the crevices of people’s houses. They also live in other small spaces such as under rocks and in firewood. If you encounter a scorpion unexpectedly, it may inject venom into your body to defend itself.

What are the symptoms of a scorpion sting?

Most scorpion stings are not harmful and only cause pain around the area that was stung. But more dangerous scorpion stings can be life-threatening. You should see a doctor if you experience more severe symptoms including:

• Numbness all over body
• Breathing trouble
• Difficulty swallowing
• Thick tongue and excessive salivating
• Slurred speech
• Restlessness
• Seizures
• Blurry vision
• Roving eye movements
• Muscle twitching

Diagnosis and Tests

How are scorpion stings diagnosed?

Doctors often diagnose a scorpion sting with a “tap test.” In this test, the doctor will tap the place where you were stung to see if the pain gets worse. This reaction is an indicator of a scorpion sting.

Management and Treatment

How are scorpion stings treated?

Treatment for scorpion stings depends on the type of scorpion involved and the amount of venom injected. Most people do not need to see a doctor for a scorpion sting.

You can manage mild stings at home by:

• Cleaning the site
• Applying ice
• Elevating the area so it’s at the same level as your heart
• Taking medicines like aspirin or acetaminophen to reduce the pain

A doctor will treat more serious symptoms with medicine called antivenom. These medications can counteract the venom’s effects. It is important to receive antivenom as soon as possible after serious symptoms appear.

What happens after a scorpion sting?

Most scorpion sting symptoms go away without treatment within 48 hours. The symptoms of more severe scorpion stings can continue to develop for 24 hours. Your doctor will want to watch you carefully for that amount of time to manage your symptoms and make sure new ones do not develop.

Prevention

How can scorpion stings be prevented?

Scorpions are more active at night, but people can get stung any time. You can lessen your risk by wearing long sleeves, pants, and gloves when you’re outside in areas where scorpions live. In these areas, it’s also a good idea to shake out your shoes and clothing before putting them on.

Florida Scorpion – Centruroides hentzi

6 Scorpions Found in Texas (With Pictures)

Texas, or the Lone Star State as it’s also called, is home to dozens of different animal species, including some that are very rare and found only in Texas. Of all the critters living in this southwestern state, none are more fascinating or frightening than the scorpion.

A real Texan knows he’d better check those cowboy boots he’s about to slip on to make sure there’s not one of these eight-legged arachnids inside that can deliver a nasty sting.

Fortunately, there are no poisonous Scorpions found in Texas that can affect the nervous system, cause paralysis, heart irregularities, or death. But the scorpions that do live in Texas can deliver a painful sting that can result in a mild or moderate reaction. We’ll list a few of the most common scorpions found in Texas so you’ll know what to look out for if you visit this big state.

Top 6 Scorpions Found in Texas:

1. Striped Bark Scorpion

Image Credit: Sari ONeal, Shutterstock

The Striped Bark Scorpion is the most common scorpion in Texas and this species can be found throughout the state. This scorpion can sting you but the sting isn’t extremely dangerous as it only causes a moderate reaction in most people.

The Striped Bark Scorpion has a long slender body and two-tone brown coloring. This scorpion’s pincers, legs, and tail are pale yellow and its abdomen is dark brown. It has two long stripes along the sides of its back and the tip of the stinger is black.

Like other scorpions that are mostly nocturnal, the Striped Bark Scorpion stays hidden during the day so it can keep its body temperature regulated. This scorpion has a waxy cuticle covering its body to reduce the loss of water. The most fascinating thing about the Striped Bark Scorpion is that this waxy substance shines bright blue under a blacklight and nobody knows why!

This non-venomous scorpion is a wandering hunter that can be found anywhere outdoors. It climbs trees, hides in woodpiles, and crawls under rocks and fallen trees looking for prey like crickets, worms, spiders, and other small invertebrates. You can even find them indoors around sources of water like sinks and tubs.

2. Texas Cave Scorpion

As you may have guessed by the name, the Texas Cave Scorpion can be found in and around caves in central Texas. These cave-dwelling scorpions are dark in color and have thicker pincers than the more common Striped Bark Scorpion.

While these scorpions are usually found in cave areas, they can be found elsewhere in dark, covered areas like in woodpiles and underneath rocks. As a venomous scorpion, the Texas Cave Scorpion can deliver a nasty sting but it’s not poisonous enough to kill a human. A sting by this scorpion results in a red and swollen sore area that typically doesn’t produce any serious symptoms.

This scorpion eats mainly crickets and the occasional centipede and other creepy crawlers that reside in and around caves. Like most scorpions, the Texas Cave Scorpion immobilizes its prey by injecting them with venom while holding them with its pincers.

3. Straight-Faced Solifugid Scorpion

The oddly-named Straight-Faced Solifugid Scorpion is found primarily in the desert regions of Texas. These agile scorpions that are about 2 inches long are very fast which is why they’re also called Wind Scorpions as they can move as swiftly as the wind.

Even though this is a nonvenomous scorpion, it can deliver a painful bite using its strong jaws. While there are ongoing disputes concerning whether these creatures are scorpions or spiders, they are classified as being part of the scorpion family. These are aggressive scorpions that are harmless unless you try to pick them up, then they’ll bite you.Due to this scorpion’s spider-like looks and fast movements, a Straight-Faced Solifugids can easily startle and frighten you if you come across one.

4. Florida Bark Scorpion

Image Credit: Irina K, Shutterstock

The Florida Bark Scorpion is a venomous scorpion that’s found primarily in residential areas in central Texas. It’s common for homeowners to be startled by these scorpions that can show up in woodpiles, under tree bark, and beneath stones.  These scorpions can even be found living in the walls of homes and under rubbish piles in yards.

While this is a venomous scorpion, it’s not considered a dangerous or deadly species but it can deliver a nasty sting that can be rather painful.  This scorpion spends the daytime hours under logs or loose pieces of tree bark. They can also hide under boards and other types of debris and often find their way into recently built homes in Texas.

5. Lindo Scorpion

The Lindo Scorpion or the Digging Scorpion as it’s also called lives in the desert areas of Western Texas. This scorpion can be found burrowed in the desert sand.  This is a slow-growing but long-lived creature that can take up to 8 years to reach full maturity. This is not a commonly seen scorpion in Texas mainly because it’s elusive and digs itself into the sand. The Lindo Scorpion eats a variety of invertebrates including beetles, crickets, and other insects. This is a scorpion that can go several days without food but when it is hungry, it has a voracious appetite.

Like other scorpions native to Texas, the Lindo Scorpion is not deadly to humans but it can and will bite if threatened or provoked. While a  bite from one of these scorpions can be painful but not serious.

6. Lesser Stripetail Scorpion

The Lesser Stripetail Scorpion is a burrowing species that lives in a variety of habitats. These aggressive scorpions can be found in the desert, in sandy wooded areas, grasslands, and even rocky slopes in mountains to about 7,000 feet.

A Lesser Stripetail Scorpion spends most of its time undercover hiding among rocks and underground debris hunting for prey that consists of a variety of insects like beetles, grubs, small worms and other small invertebrates.

You can experience a lot of pain if you get stung by a Lesser Stripetail Scorpion. The sensitivity and pain from this creature’s sting can last for 30 minutes with some swelling and redness present. However, a Lesser Stripetail Scorpion sting is not lethal but rather uncomfortable so if you run across one of these scorpions in the wild, leave it be! This scorpion flicks its tail when faced with danger and it will stand its ground if something is threatening it.

Conclusion

The scorpions living in Texas thrive in that state’s warm and dry climate. These are strange-looking arachnids with hard shells covering their bodies, lobster-like claws, and tails that curl up over their backs.

Scorpions play an important role in their ecosystem, keeping the invertebrate species in check while providing food for a variety of animals and birds like coyotes, shrews, owls, and bats. You can keep any of the species named above as a pet as long as you provide your scorpion with the right habitat and food.

While there are no poisonous scorpions found in Texas that can cause death, being stung by one of these arachnids can cause pain, redness, and swelling. Applying an ice pack to the area and taking over-the-counter pain medication is typically all it takes to recover from a scorpion sting.

Featured Image Credit: Sari ONeal, Shutterstock

Nicole is the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese cat and Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes (and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship) and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts’ knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.

Related

What To Do If Your Dog Is Stung By A Scorpion

If your dog is stung by a scorpion, it’s unlikely to kill him. But it could definitely ruin his day! I didn’t know how to properly care for our dogs if they were stung by a scorpion, so I was grateful when Emily Buchanan offered to share her experience in a guest post. 

Emily lives in the UK, and her dog was stung by a scorpion on a trip to Spain. But this situation could have easily happened in the United States. Think you only need to worry about running into scorpions in the desert southwest? They can actually be found in 29 states! 

Camping Is A Great Pet Friendly Option

When seeking to avoid some of the stresses of traveling with kids, camping is a great choice. And, truth be told, the sun-kissed, hippie inside me has always loved the idea of a camping holiday.

Plus, it meant our two Labradors, Ash and Logan, could go too. So this year we did just that! Took the kids and dogs on a camping trip to Alicante, Spain.

Preparation is Key

I like to think of myself as a savvy traveler. If backpacking around Asia in my early twenties was doable, camping in my mid *cough* late forties should be a breeze, right? But this would be our first trip out of the country with our dogs.

The campsite we chose was super pet friendly. It even had an onsite vet that proved fortuitous! And before we left the UK, I organized everything with military precision, packing an adult first aid kit, a kid first aid kit, and a dog first aid kit.

READ MORE ⇒  Make A Dog First Aid Kit For Your Car

Ash basking in the sun and Logan, in the background, with his favorite toy.

Encountering the Unexpected

Our car was stuffed with every safety precaution. However, I had overlooked one very important little thing: scorpions.

Of more than 70 species of scorpion in the United States, only one is considered deadly.

In my mind, scorpions only roamed the wilds of Arizona or the desolation of the Sahara. We certainly weren’t going to find them in a sea-side resort on the Costa Blanca!

So, when Ash lay whimpering under the camper one night, and Logan was bashfully bating the grass with his paw, I couldn’t figure out what was going on.

It was only when Logan proudly placed a dead scorpion at my feet that I realized why Ash was hiding. He’d been stung!

READ MORE ⇒  Seven Essentials for Desert Hiking with Dogs

What If Your Dog Is Stung By A Scorpion?

I didn’t have the first clue about scorpions. As far as I knew they were deadly, and their venom would bring a quick end to my beloved pooch. I panicked, of course, and ran barefoot through the night with my seven-year-old Lab crying in my arms.

Adrenaline carried me across the campground to the vet’s trailer. And, after banging on the door with the vigor of a deranged lunatic, the vet emerged with an expression of fatigue and annoyance. That soon faded when he saw the state of my poor dog!

Thankfully, the vet was fully equipped for this incident. Though Mediterranean scorpions aren’t fatal, they can be bad news for dogs with an allergy to the venom.

The vet removed the stinger from Ash’s nose, applied a cool compress, and gave him a pain reliever and Benadryl. After a thorough checking over and some much needed love, Ash fell sound asleep on the vet’s floor.

Road to Recovery

Ash spent the next few days looking swollen and grumpy, but he was back to his old self by the end of the week. The only lasting effect is that he’s now petrified of beetles and insects.

Thus, I advise all pet owners to familiarize yourself with any potential threatening characters in the area you’ll be traveling. Make sure you know what the dangerous species look like, and never put yourself (or your dogs) in any questionable situations. Below are the lessons we learned from this trip.

How To Prevent A Scorpion Sting

• Scorpions are nocturnal. However; if your dog is rooting around in the undergrowth or digging during the day he may very well disturb a nest and this could result in a scorpion sting. Therefore, keep him in sight and under control.
• At night, it’s best to keep your dogs indoors. I wish I had! And before you go to bed, check your accommodations for scorpions. They stick to the shadows and are notorious for hiding in shoes.
• Shake out your shoes before putting them on.
• The larger the scorpion, the LESS venomous the sting. It’s the little ones you really need to watch out for.
• If you’re really concerned, get a UV light. They make scorpions glow bright green!

A scorpion under a UV light. Some scientists have said that this is just a random act of evolution. Others claim that their external skeletons can detect UV light and therefore distinguish night from day.

What To Do If Your Dog Is Stung

Not everyone has such easy access to a vet while on holiday. We just happened to be very lucky. If you suspect that your dog has been stung, finding a vet is a priority.

A word of caution: Scorpion stings are very, very painful so you must do whatever you can to relieve your dog’s pain. These steps might take two people because your dog may struggle to get away. Stick with it – your dog will be grateful later.

Until you’re able to get to a vet, here are some immediate actions you can take to help your dog:

• Wash the affected area with cool water and then apply a cool compress (not ice) for ten minutes. When that time is up, let the sting breathe for ten minutes and then reapply the compress for another ten minutes.
• If you can locate the stinger and safely remove it, do so using tweezers.
• If your dog is stung and you can safely catch the scorpion (or if it’s dead) bring it along to the vet for identification. Knowing the type of scorpion will help assess the severity of the situation.

READ MORE ⇒ What You Should Know About Emergency Vets (Before You Need One)

Symptoms To Watch For

After your pet receives medical attention, you should continue to monitor him for several days to be sure there’s not a delayed reaction to the venom. If you see any of these symptoms, it’s time for another trip to the vet!

• Drooling
• Watering, blood-shot eyes and dilated pupils
• Uncharacteristic urination and defecation
• Muscle tremors
• Breathing difficulty
• Collapse

Disclosure: I am not a veterinary professional, and these tips should be practiced with extreme caution. If your dog is stung by a scorpion, you should call your veterinarian immediately.

About the Author: Emily Buchanan lives in the U.K. with her husband, kids, and beloved dogs, Ash and Logan. She’s an avid traveler and enjoys sharing what she learns on her pet friendly adventures.

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Scorpion sting in Zimbabwe – PubMed

Objective:

To describe the epidemiological and clinical features of scorpion stings in a district with potentially lethal scorpions.

Design:

Case series of consecutive scorpion sting victims.

Setting:

Manama Hospital and all seven rural health centres in Gwanda South District, Zimbabwe (population 62500).

Participants:

All known cases of scorpion sting reporting to health centres in the district; all severe cases in which the scorpions had been identified, and who were admitted and examined by the author between September 1991 and September 1993.

Main outcome measures:

Description of clinical features of severe Parabathus transvaalicus scorpionism.

Results:

Two hundred and forty-four cases, of which 184 were P. transvaalicus Purcell, 1899. Seventeen patients with severe P. transvaalicus scorpionism showed sensory and motor nerve stimulation, with generalised hyperaesthesia, weakness, ptosis, dysphagia, muscle tremors and abnormal reflexes. There was cardiac involvement, and respiration was compromised secondary to muscular weakness. Parasympathetic nervous system stimulation was seen in the absence of sympathetic stimulation, with profuse sialorrhoea, sweating and urinary retention.

Conclusions:

The clinical features of P. transvaalicus scorpionism are described for the first time. These resemble those of P. granulatus scorpionism which, however, has significant sympathetic nervous system stimulation, the distinguishing features being visual disturbances, anxiety, restlessness and raised blood pressure. Scorpion antivenom should be given for both. General recommendations on management of scorpion stings are given.

Scorpions | National Geographic

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A red bark scorpion (<i>Babycurus jacksoni</i>) photographed at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Nebraska

A red bark scorpion (Babycurus jacksoni) photographed at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Nebraska

Photograph by Joel Sartore, National Geographic Photo Ark

Common Name:

Scorpions

Scientific Name:

Scorpiones

Type:

Invertebrates

Diet:

Carnivore

Average Life Span In The Wild:

3 to 8 years

Size:

2.5 to 8.3 inches

Size relative to a teacup:

Scorpions are members of the class Arachnida and are closely related to spiders, mites, and ticks. They are commonly thought of as desert dwellers, but they also live in Brazilian forests, British Columbia, North Carolina, and even the Himalayas. These hardy, adaptable arthropods have been around for hundreds of millions of years, and they are nothing if not survivors.

Hunting and Diet

There are almost 2,000 scorpion species, but only 30 or 40 have strong enough poison to kill a person. The many types of venom are effectively tailored to their users’ lifestyles, however, and are highly selected for effectiveness against that species’ chosen prey.

Scorpions typically eat insects, but their diet can be extremely variable—another key to their survival in so many harsh locales. When food is scarce, the scorpion has an amazing ability to slow its metabolism to as little as one-third the typical rate for arthropods. This technique enables some species to use little oxygen and live on as little as a single insect per year. Yet even with lowered metabolism, the scorpion has the ability to spring quickly to the hunt when the opportunity presents itself—a gift that many hibernating species lack.

Survival Skills

Such survival skills allow scorpions to live in some of the planet’s toughest environments. Researchers have even frozen scorpions overnight, only to put them in the sun the next day and watch them thaw out and walk away. But there is one thing scorpions have a difficult time living without—soil. They are burrowing animals, so in areas of permafrost or heavy grasses, where loose soil is not available, scorpions may not be able to survive.

WATCH: Scorpions Glow in the Dark

Scorpions normally blend into their habitat, but shining a UV light on them results in a stunning sight.

Scorpions | Descriptions and photos of animals

Taxonomy of scorpions

Scorpions are the most primitive arachnids, but despite this, more than 750 species are currently known. Scorpions live in countries with warm and hot climates, and they are found in a wide variety of habitats: from humid forests and sea coasts to barren rocky areas and sandy deserts. The body of scorpions, like spiders, consists of a cephalothorax and an abdomen, however, outwardly they are more like crayfish: with a long articulated body (“tail”) and large pedipalps in the form of powerful pincers.The scorpion’s cephalothorax is covered with a single shield on which the eyes are located: larger median ones and five pairs of small lateral ones; their chelicerae are small, pincer-shaped. The abdomen of scorpions has a fixed and wide front part and a narrow, long mobile back. At the end of the abdomen there is a swelling (there is a poisonous gland) with a sharp hook – with it, the scorpion kills its prey and defends itself from enemies. On small invertebrates that serve him as food, the poison acts almost instantly, and they immediately stop moving; it is fatal for small mammals as well.But for a person, a scorpion bite is usually not fatal, although there are cases with very serious consequences and even fatal outcomes. Scorpion venom contains substances that destroy blood cells and act on the nervous system. Poison is especially dangerous in young scorpions. It has been noticed that scorpions with a light color (almost all desert scorpions) have a much stronger venom than scorpions with a dark color (forest). There is one more dependence: the larger the scorpion’s claws, the weaker its venom, and vice versa.When a scorpion is injected, acute pain is felt, there is a swelling, numbness, and sometimes a rise in temperature. But out of all 1,500 species, there are 28 species whose venom is very toxic. Most of them are among the butid family. The most dangerous of all scorpions is the Palestinian scorpion genuris. Its poison is as strong as that of an Indian cobra. In North Africa, hundreds of people die from this scorpion every year, with 95% of all those bitten die. A special vaccine against scorpion venom has not yet been invented; serums from karakurt venom are more often used.

Scorpions are fierce predators that go hunting at night during the hot season. A hunting scorpion walks slowly with a raised “tail”, pushing forward ajar claws. Their vision, due to their nocturnal lifestyle, is rather poorly developed. The hunter moves by groping with the help of special sensitive hairs on the pedipalps, the scorpion is very sensitive to touching any moving object: if it is a suitable prey, he grabs it, if the object is too large, the scorpion retreats, assuming a threatening pose.The scorpion grabs the prey with the claws of the pedipalps and brings it to the chelicerae, with the help of which it kneads it and, having processed it with digestive juices, sends it into the mouth. If the victim resists, the scorpion stings them repeatedly, immobilizing them or killing them with poison. Scorpions feed on spiders, mowers, millipedes, various insects and their larvae. Large scorpions can eat a lizard or small rodent. In the absence of food, they are able to starve for a very long time (up to one and a half years); desert species, moreover, do practically without water.

Scorpions use their poison sparingly and inject it no more than is needed to kill the victim. Many small arthropods are eaten alive by scorpions without even using a sting. However, self-defense shots contain the maximum dose of poison. Usually, the victims of scorpions in search of shelter themselves crawl into their burrows. But at night, hungry, scorpions themselves are actively looking for prey. Grabbing the victim with claws, the scorpion inflicts its prick, and then dismembers the prey, alternately using chelicera.With the help of the suction movements of the pharynx, juices and soft tissues of the victim are drawn into the mouth. The scorpion eats slowly – one beetle for an hour or more. The abdominal membranes between the segments can stretch, and the eaten scorpion gets fat right before our eyes.

Some species of scorpions chirp or even “sing” by rubbing the notches of their claws on the base of the first pairs of walking legs. This “singing” is similar to a rattle, although the reasons for “singing” are incomparable with the chirping of grasshoppers: they are used in anticipation of an attack or defense.Curiously, when attacking, these teeth are directed wide and upward, and when defending, they are lowered directly in front of the head.

Most species of scorpions are viviparous, some lay eggs. The development of embryos in the mother’s body is very long: from several months to a year or more. Fertility of scorpions is low – from 5-6 cubs to several dozen. Small scorpions climb the mother’s body and usually stay on it for 7-10 days. Taking care of the cubs by the female increases their survival rate and accelerates growth.Even rather large cubs, which have molted several times already, are not able to get their own food, and if they are deprived of their mother, most of them will die of hunger or in the stomachs of their fellows. The mother feeds them with large prey, which she catches and then tears to pieces. She does not allow children to eat each other.

Scorpions – Descriptions and photos

90,000 “Screaming and sobbing, I beat myself” A tourist almost died from a poisonous scorpion bite in Africa.His salvation was a Russian woman: World: Travel: Lenta.ru

Australian George was born in a very unusual family – his parents left for Kenya when he was still in school to open his own business there and start life from scratch, and his the brothers, while still teenagers, began to do charity work and participate in volunteer programs. So Africa became for George the second home, which he constantly visited from his youth. The countries of the third world never scared him, but there the Australian had to go through many adventures, including fighting the agony and fear of death after being bitten by a scorpion.”Lenta.ru” publishes the story of his survival as part of a cycle based on the podcasts “Diaries of Wild Travelers”, created by Australian Aaron Shanks.

When our father moved to Kenya, I was still a schoolboy and, to be honest, when I heard the name of the country, I didn’t even immediately understand where it might be geographically located. I was only 14 years old when my parents took me there for the first time. The fact that I travel the world, exploring new cultures and places, while still very young, I was absolutely delighted.And my brother even learned Swahili to better communicate with Kenyans.

I have always felt that I had to somehow help the locals to improve their quality of life and, at the age of 18, I joined a volunteer charity group that traveled across Africa. The essence of the program was to teach children from disadvantaged families to play rugby. So, I managed to truly immerse myself in the life of Africans, understand their way of thinking and way of thinking, and study their inner culture.This was the beginning of my volunteer journey.

I think it was thanks to this experience that Africa never scared me. I know that many people associate the continent with all the worst that is on our planet – disease, war, robbery, murder, dirt, hunger and poverty. It would be stupid and senseless to deny this, but I was able to get to know her from the other, beautiful side.

For those who are afraid of traveling in Africa, I can give only one piece of advice – white-skinned people there are automatically perceived as an ATM with money, so it is better for them just not to walk alone in unknown areas and beware of poorly lit deserted streets

But my survival story is not related to local people, but to local nature.And it began, one might say, with my acquaintance with a resident of Kenya, who moved to the UK to establish his own charitable foundation there. A couple of years ago, he decided to organize a major volunteer trip from Ethiopia to South Africa and called me to help him. Of course, I was overjoyed.

Photo: Farai Shawn Matiashe / Reuters

In this program, we went from school to school, from yard to yard, and taught children to play rugby. At first, the teachers we visited for lessons looked at us with disbelief, but after a week of training they were just happy with our presence.We taught them not only sports activities, but also proper nutrition. It turned out that many of these children had never even seen a ball in their lives. And how great it was to watch them at the end of the week when we put them on a real rugby match.

To make this trip, we had to try hard and literally deprive ourselves of all the joys of civilization, as well as repeatedly jeopardize our lives. We had to travel five thousand kilometers and five countries, including Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Kenya and South Africa.We had everything we needed with us – food supplies, tents, basic equipment, some medicines and, of course, fighting spirit. However, as it turned out later, this is not enough for harsh Africa.

Once we deviated from the program to visit one special place – the eco-camp Elephant Sands in Botswana. Tourists from all over the world come here to see a stunning sight – real wild elephants that come to the watering hole at night. Usually in Africa, you watch animals from a car on a safari and do not even feel their scale, but here the elephants themselves literally came to us, to a small lake, near which we were sitting, and began to drink water.It looked like a picture – a full moon, a starry sky and a herd of elephants near a reservoir.

Photo: S. Meyers / Globallookpress.com

The sight was really amazing, but it almost cost me a foot. When we sat near the fire at night and grilled meat, I felt like something bit me. At first I thought it was a snake and screamed. My brother looked at me like a savage, saying: “God, George, calm down, you’re scaring all the elephants, who are we going to look at then?”

For the next seven days, I felt like I was drugged with all the drugs in the world.It turned out that it was not a snake that had bitten me at all, but a scorpion. And I could no longer enjoy the elephants drinking water further, because every three minutes my leg was overcome by a piercing pain, similar to the sensations of an electric shock

“Listen, don’t worry, my wife was bitten by scorpions too. She will come here tomorrow morning and tell me what to do, ”the owner of the campsite told me carefully, handing out a glass of rum, assuring me that this should ease the pain. I think he realized that the scorpion was poisonous, and just acted like everything was fine, like a flight attendant who must calm passengers in the event of a disaster.

But his rum and consolations did not help – suddenly I stopped feeling my leg and began to think that I was dying. Worst of all, the nearest large settlement was 400 kilometers from us, because we were in the desert, where only satellite phones worked. And later the owner of the campsite found an arthropod that had bitten me, and not a trace remained of his positive attitude – he realized that it was the second most poisonous and dangerous scorpion in Africa. A few minutes later we were already racing through the night desert in a van in an unknown direction.

The car stopped near the brave black guys who were sitting around the fire in the middle of the reserve and playing cards. It turned out that the owner of the camp took me to the so-called anti-poaching point – a place where people are on duty, ready to kill anyone who encroaches on the life of an elephant or lion. So, spending the night in the desert, the locals protect the wildlife from hunters who dump a big sum to come to Africa and get the skin of a trophy animal.

In case of a poisonous insect or snake bite, these guys always have a medicine with them that helps to stop the spread of poison and remove it from the body.It was for him that we came. But the person who was supposed to inject me first started chatting with me about everything. This is some kind of special feature of all Africans – it does not matter if you are dying or in agony, you must certainly dump all the details of your life on you.

Photo: Frans Lanting / Globallookpress.com

So I found out that he was a doctor in prison, that he even has a certificate confirming it, that he is very proud of his career and achievements, and only then he received the damn medicine.I don’t know how many milligrams of antidote he injected me, but to be honest, it didn’t bring any relief.

I had to spit at a distance of 400 kilometers and go to the hospital. On the way, I tried to meditate, relax, focus on pain, as the great yogis teach, but it did not help – the leg was so cold that I did not feel anything, and as soon as something touched the place with the bite, insane pain pierced my whole body.

The clinic to which I was brought looked very decent, but inside the building there was complete chaos.A crowd of sick and broken Africans, crowded in a small room, immediately looked at me with amazed eyes. There was only one doctor working in the hospital, if you can call it that closet, and the first thing he did was to accept me.

This is a common practice in African countries. It is generally accepted here that if a white person comes to a local clinic, it means that he has serious problems, and he can pay a lot of money for treatment. The Sad Truth

But the drugs the doctor gave me still did not help, and we had to go back to the campsite with nothing.

The behavior of the doctors in each of the hospitals was absolutely shocking. The next morning, I still couldn’t walk on my own and didn’t feel my legs, so an ambulance was called for me. In the next clinic, the employees behaved as if nothing terrible had happened, and my bite was just entertainment. The doctor who examined me touched my leg and, as if nothing had happened, said to his assistant: “So, we will amputate here!” I almost burst into tears.

“No! No! Don’t you dare, ”I shouted, waving my arms.But it turned out that the doctor was just joking, trying to “cheer me up”. He injected another dose of anesthetic, he calmly let me go, assuring me that everything would be all right. The drug relieved the condition briefly, but when we got to Livingstone, the southern city of Zambia, the pain returned again. From impotence, I lost control of myself.

Screaming and sobbing, I beat my leg to feel it again, but the suffering only intensified. It seemed to me that I was going crazy, that the poison had already hit my brain and there was no chance of survival

I scared my brothers so much with screams that they began to run up to passers-by and ask them for help.We were lucky – backpackers from Australia drove by, who knew where the nearest hospital was. A few minutes later I found myself on the doorstep of another wretched institution, where there were no specialists capable of curing me. This time, the attending physician was an adult lady who threw up her hands after hearing my story, and then grabbed hot water and began pouring over her bite.

Although I was in agony and almost fainted, I understood that this only makes it worse, because the hot water dispersed the blood, and the poison began to circulate more strongly inside me.This is the essence of most medical institutions in Africa. If in developed countries you feel safe being in a hospital, then here everything is just the opposite – you have to pray that a doctor will be found who at least will not kill you with his treatment.

Photo: Philimon Bulawayo / Xinhua / Globallookpress.com

Surprisingly, the only person in the area who really understood what to do was a Russian woman who worked in another clinic.She behaved quite boldly and rudely, but she immediately told me what to do: “Listen, in fact you have already received your dose of painkillers and antivenom, but now you just need to drink more water and lift your leg up. After some time, everything should pass. ”

She even allowed me to stay in the clinic for a couple of days, and the very next morning I felt much better. There was no food or even electricity in the hospital, but at least I was supervised there and could rest in peace. And two days later, for the first time after the bite, I got to my feet on my own.It’s funny that such a small creature like a scorpion can bring a person so much suffering and knock him out for almost a week.

Even though I had to go through such a sad experience, I still do not consider Africa a bad place and in the future I plan to spend a lot of time in the countries of the continent. Life in Australia is too ideal, too measured. There are very happy people and great culture here – surfing, sun, simple joys. But, as for me, it is quite Americanized. Here we do not see real life, and Africa is completely different.

For example, in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, despite the fact that it is a fairly developed city, there is still one of the largest slums in the world – Kibera. In an area the size of Central Park, roughly a million people live here. Many people wonder how they all go to the toilet. It’s amazing, but they use so-called “flying toilets” – they defecate in plastic bags and then throw them into special ditches or just as far from their home as possible on the side of the road.

It is absolutely awful to live there, many children do not even live up to six, dying of diseases, but this does not mean that they do not deserve to be happy. And I am very glad that my father, having moved to Africa, gave me the opportunity to become a volunteer, bringing at least some joy into their existence. By showing them another life, I myself began to see the meaning in it.

And this situation just taught me to be more careful before traveling and prepare more thoroughly for them. For example, at least take out insurance.This piece of paper costs a penny and is done in a couple of minutes, but it can save you and your family from multi-million dollar spending on medical treatment abroad.

***

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How to get rid of scorpions: the best ways and products

Scorpions are not considered pests in the classical sense of this words, but hardly anyone will be happy to meet them.We have prepared a guide to fighting scorpions and the top 12 means to fight them. The selection contains both insecticides and devices with which the scorpion can be carried away.

Scorpions are representatives of the class of arachnids and the order of arthropods. Representatives of the largest species reach 20 centimeters in length, the smallest – 13 millimeters. Of the 1,750 species known to science, several dozen are dangerous to humans. The largest species, Heterometrus swammerdami, lives in Asian forests and reaches a length of 23 centimeters, but produces a very weak poison.

Scorpions live in warm and hot countries of Europe, the Americas, Africa and Asia, although they were previously found on almost all land areas, except for remote New Zealand and small islands and cold Greenland, Antarctica, and the islands of the Arctic Ocean. Prefer arid regions.

There are three types of scorpions in Russia. The variegated scorpion is found in the Caucasus and the Lower Volga region. A brownish-brown arachnid up to 6 centimeters in length is not capable of killing a person, but it stings painfully.Symptoms are similar to that of a wasp or hornet sting. The spotted scorpion is also found in Syria, Turkey, Central Asia, Mongolia and northwest China.

The dark brown Italian scorpion can be found on the coast of the Caucasus. A similar Mingrelian scorpion lives in Transcaucasia and is found in river valleys.

Scorpion bites

Scorpions are active at night when they go hunting. During the day they hide under stones, in rocks and in other shady places. Some species live under the bark of trees and climb into wooden sheds and dwellings.They feed on insects and other arachnids, so they can sting a person only during self-defense. Despite the fact that few species are dangerous to human life, the sting of a scorpion is painfully tolerated.

The sting of a scorpion is located at the end of a flexible and curved long abdomen, similar to a tail. Different species use this weapon when hunting or in a situation where it is required to defend against a stronger and more aggressor. Some species attack from a distance. Parabuthus transvaalicus, living in southern Africa, can spray poison a meter around.Once in a person’s eyes, the poison causes a burning sensation and blindness, which can remain forever.

The area affected by the sting turns red and sore, but often passes quickly, as after a wasp sting. If the poison is strong, the person experiences headache, muscle tremors, fever, dizziness, impaired consciousness, tachycardia, pressure surges, or other symptoms characteristic of fever. In children, scorpion venom can cause pulmonary edema. People who are allergic to bee venom should also be wary of scorpions.

The stung should be at rest, drink a pain reliever, wash the sting site with soap and water and apply a compress, but not ice. In case of contact with a poisonous species, the patient is provided with an appropriate serum.

What scientists advise: methods of dealing with scorpions

There are two ways to fight scorpions. The first is to exclude or limit the likelihood of a person meeting this poisonous insect. Order and cleanliness in the house area, sealed holes and crevices in the house, closed shoes and garden gloves will exclude the possibility of being stung.

The second method is to isolate or destroy a scorpion encountered by a person. It can be caught and carried away; special devices are even produced for this. You can also kill a scorpion with a sharp stick or heavy object, or use insecticides. Let’s consider the methods of struggle in more detail.

To avoid an unpleasant meeting, experts advise to maintain cleanliness and order in and around the house. E. T. Natwick of the University of California notes the importance of keeping shoes, clothes and towels indoors and using shoes and gloves when working outdoors.

Shake out clothes and shoes left outside before putting on, work in the yard with gloves and wear closed shoes, especially at dusk. A flashlight with ultraviolet light will help you spot scorpions in the dark by illuminating them brightly.

Scorpions enter a building through cracks and openings in windows, doors or bathrooms. They are attracted to the insects they feed on. In regions where scorpions are common, it is recommended to use less attractive yellow light for outdoor lighting.It is equally important to remove sources of open water in and around your home or restrict scorpions’ access to them. Particular attention should be paid to the sanitary facility and carefully seal the cracks in the places where water and sewer pipes pass through the walls.

In areas where scorpions are commonplace, a lot of attention is paid to cleanliness and advises to cut off overhanging tree branches, do not store firewood indoors and check them for scorpions before using them, seal cracks in windows and around the roof, cracks and other holes.It is recommended to carry out work in gardening gloves, closed clothes and shoes.

To safely catch a scorpion, cover the uninvited guest with a glass jar, slip a sheet of paper under it and turn it over. The scorpion can then be carried to a safe distance or killed. You can also destroy it by stepping on with your boot. To do this, make an effort; these insects are adapted for life in narrow spaces and are able to flatten without harm to life.

Scientists at the University of North Carolina note that chemical methods of struggle are not very effective, because scorpions can live without food and water for several months and hide for up to two months after eating.Therefore, only long lasting insecticides are effective when used correctly.

Products containing bifenthrin and cyfluthrin are used indoors and outdoors. Tralometrin is used in the home, while permethrin is used only outside.

In turn, the University of Arkansas mentions diatomaceous earth and silica gel among the methods of struggle. Diatomaceous earth is a method of physical impact on insects and arachnids. It is non-addictive and kills by causing physical damage.The product is harmless to pets and humans.

If you cannot cope with scorpions on your own, experts recommend contacting professionals.

Remedies for scorpions: Top 12 products

We have selected 12 products that scientists advise. We’ll start with natural ones – diatomaceous earth, traps and fishing devices, and end with powerful insecticides.

Safer Brand 51703 Diatomaceous Earth Bed Bug, Flea and Ant Crawling Insect Killer

This natural powder is for ~ $ 9.47 is suitable in case you need to destroy a lot of scorpions. Kieselguhr is a very fine powder composed of the remains of fossil diatoms. Safer Brand DE is not toxic to humans and animals, but it kills pests by covering them on the outside and getting inside. When crushed to a certain size, the diatomite becomes sharp and capable of cutting through the chitinous cover. For the skin of animals and humans, it remains harmless even in this form. The powder must be sprinkled in places where pests have accumulated and wait two days.It is also capable of eliminating other pests, including bed bugs, cockroaches, fleas, earwigs, silverfish, crickets, centipedes, and millipedes.

If you don’t need that amount of bioinsecticide, check out a small can of diatomaceous earth from another manufacturer – Harris Bed Bug Diatomaceous Earth Powder for ~ $ 7.99. The most important thing is to get rid of a single invasion of several scorpions.

P F HARRIS MFG CO SCTRP Scorpion Trap

Option for capturing single scorpions.In a ~ $ 10.55 package, there are 2 non-toxic bait traps that can be placed even in hard-to-reach places. They are also designed for spiders, cockroaches, centipedes and ants. Reviews of the trap are polar: some users are satisfied with the result, while others’ reviews indicate that Harris traps allegedly failed to attract pests. One way or another, it’s worth a try, because the traps are easy to use and budget.

30 Catchmaster Mouse / Spider / Insect / Scorpion Glue Board Sticky Traps

This is a set of 30 versatile sticky traps for only $ 11.29, which the manufacturer says are effective at trapping scorpions, fruit flies and other insects and even mice. You can put a cardboard base without bending, or make a trap closed from above. Pests are attracted by the smell of nut butter, which a person can smell at a distance of about a meter.

This non-toxic device is highly rated by users. One of the buyers even posted a photo of a small snake trapped in it. What’s important: the substance used in the trap is not toxic and can be neutralized with vegetable oil.Therefore, if you do not want to kill scorpions, you can simply free them after capturing.

“If you want to do well – do it yourself!” The following 2 traps can also be classified as humane, but you will have to take an active part in capturing scorpions.

Big Bug Katcha, traps large and small insects and critters

If scorpions are not frequent guests and you feel sorry for killing them, use this device for ~ $ 14.99. A stick with a container will allow you to humanely escort unwanted guests – a medium or even large scorpion or any other animal of similar size will fit in the container.All you need to do is then close it, take the device away from home and release the pest into the wild.

Wherever the container cannot get through, a thin “catcher” with a long handle will get through. This more expensive option – My Critter Catcher – Spider & Insect Catcher for ~ $ 27.95 is only suitable for medium to small sized scorpions. But if you also have a lot of spiders in your house, then it will not lie idle. At the end of the long handle there is a bristle that safely captures the pest at the push of a button and, as you press, will release it.According to the manufacturer, this multifunctional device will also help to catch unwanted wasps, bees, crickets, cicadas, butterflies, cockroaches and other insects. If you have been stung by a scorpion at least once right in your own bed, this catcher is what you need. As one user said, “Feel free to invest in your own security” .

TERRO Scorpion Killer Aerosol Spray T2101

Unlike the universal sprays below, this aerosol costs ~ $ 8.83 from the well-known brand TERRO is positioned as a remedy for scorpions, but also kills other pests on contact: ants, spiders, silverfish, crickets, cockroaches, etc. The active substance is pralletrin (a group of pyrethroids). A residual control of up to 6 weeks is also promised. The can is equipped with a wide double-sided spray mechanism that allows you to direct the product deep into the floor gap, into the corner of the room, under furniture or into any crack. The aerosol does not leave an odor, so it can be used both outdoors and indoors.

Users praise this tool and say that it really works. But do not spare the money: for a scorpion to die, you need to literally “drown” it in a chemical. But the process of dying will take several minutes, so many users put poisoned pests in closed jars or containers to make sure they are dead and only then throw them away. This measure also keeps dogs and birds from eating the treated pests.

Ortho Home Defense MAX Insect Killer for Indoor & Perimeter RTU Wand, 1.1 Gallons

Pesticide containing the active ingredient bifenthrin. The spray is sold in an economical canister with a spray bottle and can be used both indoors and outdoors. The manufacturer claims that this ~ $ 15.71 product kills pests and dangerous insects and arachnids, including scorpions, and creates long-term protection, keeping pests out of the treated area. The maximum effect is achieved when spraying on dry surfaces that should not be exposed to rain or wet cleaning during the day.Indoors, protection lasts up to 12 months, outdoors – up to three months.

Talstar Pro 96 ounce (3/4 gallon) jug

Talstar is a professional bifenthrin-based remedy for the fight against beetles, bugs, ants and other arthropods. Sold as a concentrate for ~ $ 41.65, mix with water and spray with a spray bottle to use.

It is promised that when sprayed on a dry surface indoors and outdoors, the agent works for up to three months, killing and repelling pests.And, judging by the reviews, the remedy is really effective on scorpions.

Attention: the insecticide must not be applied in the immediate vicinity of water bodies. This is due to its long-lasting residual strength (up to 3 months) and high toxicity to plants and animals living in water. Since Talstar is a very powerful agent, only use a face shield and gloves when treating the area. After drying, it is safe for animals and children and can be used in the food area: in the pantry or in the kitchen.

Bayer Advanced 502795 Home Pest Control Indoor and Outdoor Insect Killer Ready-To-Use, 1-Gallon

A cheaper ready-made cyfluthrin spray insecticide for ~ $ 16.99. Sold with a spray bottle and indoors it works for up to 12 months on various crawling, flying insects, as well as on those that infest wood. According to reviews, it is also safe for pets – but only after the product has dried! Immediately after processing the room, leave it for a couple of hours and keep people and animals away.The product is not yet as popular as competing sprays, but it already has a good rating for its effectiveness and affordable price.

Delta Dust Multi Use Pest Control Insecticide Dust

~ $ 18 Delta Dust is one of many deltamethrin-based insecticides available that is approved for indoor use. This versatile insecticidal powder is sprayed around areas where pests live or where they are undesirable, and kills a variety of insects and scorpions. It also creates a repelling barrier for pests.You can spray this with a brush, or use a more convenient option, a handheld sprayer. It can be used outdoors, but Delta Dust works best indoors when protected from the weather.

90,000 In one evening in Israel, five people suffered from scorpion bites

Scorpio
Photo: canva.com

Late Sunday night, July 25, there were at least 5 reports of injuries from scorpion bites.

According to MADA representatives, the first signal for help as a result of a scorpion bite was received by doctors at 22:25.

Reported by Details.

It is noted that a young boy and girl were bitten by a black scorpion on the banks of the Jordan River, not far from Dgania. The young people were treated on the spot and then hospitalized in the Poria hospital.

According to doctors, the lives of young people at the moment are not in danger.

However, just 10 minutes after the first message, the doctors received a second at 22:35, about a scorpion bite in the Negev.

A yellow scorpion bit a 5-year-old boy living in the Bedouin village of Bir Khadaj. The child was admitted to Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba. The victim’s condition is assessed as average.

At 11:15 pm, another signal was received from residents of the Kamhin moshav in the Negev. From moshav to Soroka hospital, an 8-year-old girl was hospitalized, who was also bitten by a scorpion.

Literally 10 minutes earlier, it was reported that a scorpion had bitten a 17-year-old girl in Kibbutz Parod, near Safed.

According to environmental experts interviewed by journalists from Channel 12, abnormal heat may be the reason for such a high aggressiveness of scorpions.

In any case, experts recommend using exclusively closed shoes during field trips, and also remind you not to move stones, behind which scorpions can hide.

According to ecologists, there are very few really dangerous scorpion species in Israel. However, in the event of a bite, it is necessary to urgently contact the doctors and not try to help yourself on your own.

The cursor already reported that a dead woman was found in an old Nazi bunker in Germany.

Read the latest news from Israel and the world on Cursor’s Telegram channel.

90,000 100 photos, sketches, meaning for girls and men

Contents:

1. Scorpion tattoo: a story
2. Modern value
3. Features
4. The location of the tattoo on the body
5. Male scorpion tattoo
6. Female scorpion tattoo
7. Runtime styles

Scorpio is a small, but dangerous insect for humans, which has long terrified people and makes people tremble with fear.With a poisonous sting, which is located at the end of the tail of an insect, a scorpion can lead to the death of not only a person, but even a very large animal. In ancient times, the scorpion was very afraid, but they treated this insect with respect. Many worshiped him. It was believed that the scorpion drives away evil spirits, because the image of this insect could be found on many houses and dwellings. Today, the image of a scorpion is often tattooed on the body. And the meaning of such a tattoo depends on the shape, color, accompanying details and the location of the picture on the body.

Scorpion tattoo: history

A tattoo depicting an insect such as a scorpion has several meanings. The variety of interpretations of such a tattoo depends on the fact that over the centuries, different peoples have given different characteristics to the scorpion. Because of its deadly bite, many peoples associate the scorpion with death. But at the same time, many peoples consider this insect the personification of strength, courage, endurance and revenge. Also, among many nations, the scorpion serves as a talisman and is a symbol of justice.

Modern meaning of a scorpion tattoo

Today, the scorpion tattoo can often be found on men associated with the army. The presence of such a tattoo indicates that its owner served in the ground forces or took part in hostilities in the Caucasus. Today, many consider the scorpion tattoo to be a protective amulet. In addition, a scorpion tattoo is considered a symbol of fidelity in married life. Usually, family people apply the scorpion in combination with the lotus.Also, the scorpion is considered a symbol of high morality and justice. In a prison theme, a scorpion means loneliness, that is, a person spent a lot of time in solitary confinement.

Scorpion Tattoo: Features

Basically scorpion tattoos are done in black and white and in the style of realism. Sometimes you can find a tattoo of a scorpion in a gray tone with the addition of red. And the size of the picture can be different: from miniature tattoos on the wrist, to huge volumetric drawings made on the chest or back.Depending on where you decide to place the scorpion tattoo on your body, its meaning changes. For example, if an insect tattoo is located on the shoulder, and its poisonous tail reaches the neck, this means that the bearer of such a tattoo is very hot-tempered. If a scorpion tattoo is depicted with lowered claws and a coiled tail, this symbolizes calmness, moderation and poise. And if the claws are raised up – decisiveness, courage, courage and aspiration.

The meaning of a scorpion tattoo from the location on the body

It is important to know that the meaning of a scorpion tattoo varies from location on the body.If you want to emphasize the power of character, strength, confidence, then depict a scorpion on the leg. People with an unusual character and excellent imagination put a scorpion on the neck. The image of a warlike insect on the chest will tell about the will to win, the strength and determination of the owner. Also, the scorpion tattoo looks great on the shoulder, wrist, hip and abdomen.

Male scorpion tattoo

The scorpion tattoo is mainly applied by the representatives of the stronger sex.If a man depicted a scorpion on his body in an aggressive pose, this will indicate the belligerence and unfriendliness of a person. An interesting tattoo of a scorpion looks like it is caught on the skin. If in such a drawing you seem to have little strength, supplement such a tattoo with an image of a knife, dagger or any other weapon. A voluminous male scorpion tattoo looks beautiful and mesmerizing. This picture can be supplemented with the image of sand dunes, cacti, animal remains, bones or skulls.And it is better to apply such a tattoo on the back, chest, lower back, thigh or shoulder blade.

Female scorpion tattoo

The female scorpion tattoo is fundamentally different from the male tattoo. The main meaning of such a tattoo on a woman’s body is to show others the independence of character and seriousness in all respects. To prevent the scorpion from looking aggressive, it is better to choose images with soft lines and small sizes. A scorpion made in a cartoon style looks great and cute.Often, girls choose a scorpion tattoo in the form of a zodiac sign, moreover, if she was born under the sign of a scorpio. A scorpion tattoo in a combination of colors, hieroglyphs or other interesting additions looks attractive on a female body.

Scorpion tattoo styles

A minimalist scorpion tattoo is a small drawing with thin and clear lines. Such a tattoo carries only the essence of the drawing, while there are no unnecessary details.One of the most popular and impressive styles for getting a scorpion tattoo is realism. This tattoo is mostly done in color, but it looks great in black and white too. A scorpion tattoo using thick lines, geometry and rough curls with intersections is a tribal style. This scorpion tattoo technique has been very popular for several decades. The male scorpion tattoo in the trash polka style looks great. It is a bold, bright and contrasting style that uses two colors – red and black.

Today the scorpion tattoo has become very popular in various circles. Modern youth are increasingly paying attention to this controversial insect. It is his ambiguity that attracts. If you decide to apply such a tattoo, be sure to study all the meanings, locations of this pattern, as well as the influence of additional details in the drawing. In conclusion, we add that the designations of a scorpion in ancient times do not differ much from modern interpretations.

If you are a brave and warlike person, a scorpion tattoo is right for you.

90,000 Phalanx spider or solpuga. Description, photo and video solpugi

Phalanx spider or solpuga. Description, photo and video solpugi

The phalanx spider has several names – solpuga, bihorka, phalanx, camel spider, Solifugae – and is a rather unpredictable animal.To begin with, this is not a spider. Outwardly, they are very similar to spiders – the structure of the limbs, their location and the presence of chelicerae, therefore they were attributed to arachnids. About 1000 species of phalanges are known.

For scientists, the name “phalanx” is not very convenient, because co-ordinated with the Latin name of the haymaking detachment – Phalangida. The name “solpuga” is more commonly used.

Although translated from Latin it means “escaping from the sun”, and this does not always correspond to the truth, i.e.because there are also sun-loving, daytime solpugs. The name “bihorka” is rarely used, and the locals of different countries, where the phalanx spider lives, have their own local names for it.

Salpugs are very peculiar – in their way of life and structure, both signs of high development and primitive features are combined. For example, their body structure and limbs are very primitive, and the tracheal system is the most developed of all arachnids.

Most of them are nocturnal predators, but there are also species among them that are active during the daytime.

Phalanges are rather large animals, the Central Asian phalanx can reach a length of 5-7 cm. The whole body, including the limbs, is covered with long hairs.

The pedipalp tentacles located in front are very similar to limbs and often perform their function. They look very frightening, and hardly anyone wants to get to know them better of their own free will. The phalanx body is colored brownish yellow.

The chelicerae are very well developed and resemble claws or large forceps. The eye tubercle, on which there is a pair of protruding eyes, is clearly visible on the anterior edge of the cephalic shield, while the lateral eyes in solpugs are underdeveloped.

These very mobile animals are nocturnal predators, they are omnivores, they eat termites, darkling beetles, and other small arthropods, but they can also eat larger game – for example, a lizard.When attacking, the solpuga emits a thin squeak or chirp by rubbing the chelicera against one another.

If the phalanx is attacked, it will begin to fiercely defend itself and very deftly controls its claws. Even with a scorpion, she is able to cope, although he is poisonous and very dangerous. They behave aggressively even towards each other.

Phalanges are surprisingly gluttonous and indiscriminate in their food. They can attack almost anything that moves and with which they are able to cope.They can even eat termites, gnawing the walls of their rather strong houses. Californian phalanxes ravage bee hives.

Larger species attack lizards, young small rodents and chicks of small birds. If food is within her reach, the phalanx will eat without stopping until it dies of gluttony.

Fertilized female solpugs are especially gluttonous. During fertilization, the female is so inert that the male sometimes drags her along.But after intercourse, she becomes very active, and the male has to quickly run away from her so that the female does not satisfy her hunger with it.

After some time, after active absorption of food, the female lays eggs in a specially dug hole. There can be from 30 to 200 eggs. Young phalanx spiders appear after 2-3 weeks.

Mating usually occurs at night. The female attracts the male with her scent.Fertilization takes place in a spermatophore way – the male releases a sticky spermatophore containing sperm, picks it up with the help of a chelicera and transfers it to the female’s genital opening.

In this case, a certain role is played by special appendages-flags on the male chelicera. The process takes several minutes. When mating, the male behaves reflexively – if you remove the female or spermatophore, the male will still continue his actions, not noticing that now they have no meaning.

The embryonic development of small solpugs begins in the oviducts of the female, so the young hatch rather quickly from the laid eggs. At first, they are motionless, devoid of joints and hairs, and are covered with a thin transparent cuticle.

After 2-3 weeks, molting occurs, the integument begins to dismember and harden, hairs appear and the solpuga can already move. The female stays with the young until it gets stronger.According to observations, the female even delivers food to the cubs at this time.

How many times solpugs molt and what their lifespan is is not yet known. In winter, solpugs hibernate, and some species may hibernate even during the summer months.

Mostly phalanxes live in deserts, arid regions and semi-desert areas. They can be found in the Gobi Desert, in the North Caucasus, in Astrakhan, in the Transcaucasia, in the Lower Volga region, in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, and in Europe they live in Greece and Spain.But in Australia they are not.

The phalanges have no venom, as well as no venom glands, but their bites can have serious consequences. Large phalanges are quite capable of biting through human skin. Since rotting remains of their victims remain on their chelicerae, when bitten, they can get into the wound and cause inflammation or blood poisoning.

Different peoples give the phalanx a wide variety of names – for example, “Wind Scorpion.”The phalanx got this name for their running, because they can reach speeds of up to 16 km / h.

There are many all sorts of fables about the poisonousness of the phalanges, for a long time people considered it terribly poisonous and very dangerous for humans. The very same phalanx of a person is not afraid at all, and at night it can easily run into the tent in the light of a flashlight, so always close the entrance to the tent.

Climbing into the tent, check if the phalanx has penetrated with you.Do not leave any things outside the tent, by the morning a tired phalanx can crawl into them to rest.

It is impossible to drive the phalanx out of the tent; you can either kill it or throw it out of the tent with a broom. At the same time, be sure to keep thick gloves with you, and tuck your trousers into your boots. But keep in mind that it is impossible to crush it on the sand.

If you are still bitten by a phalanx, you need instant first aid: rinse the bite generously with any antiseptic – peroxide, brilliant green, iodine, you can even vodka or alcohol.If the wound starts to fester anyway, be sure to take antibiotics.

The body of the phalanges, unlike other arachnids, is divided into 3 sections – the head, abdomen and chest. The head is rather large and convex. The chest is clearly divided into three segments, like in insects and centipedes.

The abdomen of the phalanx consists of about 9-10 segments, the limbs are absent.Three pairs of limbs are attached to the head region, corresponding to the mandibles and two pairs of jaws in insects, there are no antennae.

The other three pairs are attached to the chest segments, one pair to each. The first pair of limbs is located at the front edge of the head and occupies it completely, turning forward.

In their physiological functions, they correspond to the mandibles, therefore they are called tentacles, i.e.e. chelicera. In shape, they are similar to large, thick pincers, their task is to grip and grind food.

The second pair of limbs looks like tentacles (pedipalpi), but they are also similar to legs, and when walking they work exactly like legs. The third pair of limbs is outwardly similar to the second and also serves for walking.

Hind legs are noticeably longer than other limbs, on their coxae below there are 2-5 pairs of very peculiar maleole organs (appendages), similar in shape to triangular plates on the stalks.

Apparently, these are some sense organs, their purpose has not yet been clarified. The karya of these pendants are equipped with sensilla with many sensitive cells; their processes are connected to form one nerve passing through the stalk of each plate.

Scientists did experiments to remove maleols, but they did not find any visible changes in the behavior of solpugs in this regard.

The abdomen of the solpuga is powerful, spindle-shaped and consists of 10 segments. Salpugs have a highly developed tracheal system. The body and limbs are densely covered with hairs and bristles, sometimes soft, sometimes spiny, and sometimes very long.

Such shaggy, combined with lightning speed of movement and large size, has a terrifying effect on enemies.

Solpugi are extremely fast, easily climb any vertical surface, can jump more than a meter. Meeting the enemy – and for the solpuga all around are enemies – she takes a threatening pose: The front part of the body is raised, the chelicerae with open pincers are directed forward, the pedipalps and front legs are also directed towards the enemy.

At the same time, some types of solpugs frighteningly grind with chelicera, rubbing them against each other.The vast majority of salpug species are most active at night.

During the day, they hide in various secluded corners – in cargo holes, under stones, they can dig a hole for themselves and gladly climb into your backpack or shoes thrown unattended.

Some species always use the same shelter, while others prefer to look for a new shelter each time.Night views are easy to attract with any light source. They can come to the light of a fire or lanterns, and penetrate into lighted houses.

Most of all, like many nocturnal insects, they like the ultraviolet radiation from a mercury lamp.

In the scientific literature, there is an opinion that the salpug is attracted not by the light, but by insects that have accumulated near the light source. But this is still not the case, although the solpugs who come running into the world really begin to grab insects.

For daylight, night views are very negative. The same cannot be said about the sun-loving species, which are nicknamed “solar spiders” in Spain.

In Russia, the daytime species includes the Central Asian sun-loving solpuga, small in size and whitish-golden in color, it can be found in the daytime in the steppes.

In 1992, the phalanx spider was listed as an endangered species in the Red Book of Ukraine.

Interesting video with phalanx

More interesting articles on the topic:

90,000 7 biting insects of the Kuban

Midsummer is not only the height of vacations, trips to nature, the sea and summer cottages, but also the peak of the activity of numerous insects that surround people from all sides.The Internet portal “Kuban 24” has prepared a guide to insects living in the Kuban, the bites of which can be quite dangerous.

1. Mosquitoes

Photo from the site zoopicture.ru

Perhaps these insects bit everyone. In nature, they are found almost everywhere (except Antarctica), and the Krasnodar Territory is no exception. In most cases, mosquito bites are harmless and are accompanied by only mild skin redness and itching.In the past, in the Kuban, mosquitoes carried a dangerous infection – malaria, but in the 60s it was eradicated. Today, rare cases of malaria registration in the region are associated with the importation of the disease from the CIS countries and abroad.

However, you should not relax, since mosquitoes can carry dirofilariasis – and it causes the development of roundworms in the body. Mostly dogs suffer from this ailment, but sometimes a person can also get infected. In the Kuban, no such cases were detected, but in the neighboring Rostov region several people suffered from parasites.In addition, the daily British newspaper The Independent named them the most dangerous killers of people because of the malaria spread by mosquitoes. The shark in this list, for example, takes only 15th place.

In search of prey, mosquitoes are guided by human warmth, exhaled carbon dioxide and sweat odors.

There are many effective remedies on sale. For walks in nature, the most convenient sprays and lotions that are applied to the skin and clothes, for gatherings – smoke spirals, scented candles and fumigators, and for children and adults with sensitive skin they came up with special bracelets.

If the bites cannot be avoided, disinfect the wounds with an antiseptic, any alcohol or vinegar. Mosquito saliva itches at the bite sites, and the sooner you treat them, the more likely you are to relieve the itching.

A little warm water with diluted salt will also help relieve itching. There are also unusual ways to get rid of scabies – attach a cooled tea bag or the inside of a banana peel to the bite.

2. Pliers

Photo from ianimal.ru

With the onset of warmth, these bloodsuckers are the first thing that picnic lovers usually remember. After the mosquitoes, of course. The Kubans were lucky: local ticks do not tolerate encephalitis. But this does not mean that you can throw yourself into their arms without looking back. From a tick, you can become infected with borreliosis, which leads to disruptions in the functioning of the brain, eyes and joints.

It is easier to prevent a bite than to deal with its consequences later. Therefore, when traveling to potentially mite-infested areas such as forests and tall grass lawns, be sure to dress appropriately – a buttoned shirt with long sleeves and a collar, tight-fitting trousers tucked into socks, and closed shoes.It is better if the clothes are light – impractical, but it will be easier for you to notice the insect on it. Do not neglect special sprays, lotions and creams. They are not that expensive and are sold even in grocery supermarkets.

If the tick nevertheless bit – and they, by the way, like to bite into the softest and warmest: in the armpits, groin and the area behind the ears, for a start – pull it out. This can be done with tweezers or a thread loop. Hook on the insect and, as it were, twist it out of the skin counterclockwise.Do not jerk: there is a high risk of tearing off the little body, and the head with the sting will remain under the skin.

Do not drip vegetable oil on the tick in the hope that it will suffocate and leave you alone. He will really start to choke, release saliva into your blood with a bunch of infections and generally not the fact that he will fall off on his own.

Do not discard the tick, but count its limbs. If there is an odd number, you’re in luck. If it is even, then most likely the proboscis remains in your skin. Go urgently to the emergency room to get the remains of the tick and give an injection.Place the body of the insect in a box and take it for analysis to the nearest SES laboratory within 24 hours. And donate blood for infections yourself and see a doctor. Borreliosis does not appear immediately, but in the early stages it is easily treatable.

3. Bladder beetle

Photo from eco-kuban.ru

The insect lives in the grass of fields, steppes and near agricultural land. He can be called an assistant to farmers and summer residents: the berserker destroys locusts, but can also harm plants.

Beetles are of medium size or large – from 1.5 cm, usually brightly colored, with the head down. The boil used to be used in medicine and for the manufacture of incense.

Strictly speaking, a beetle does not bite a person. When you try to brush it off your skin, it starts releasing the poison cantharidin. The bladder itself is very fragile and easy to crush, which means 100% of the poison is on the skin.

Penetrating deep into the skin, the toxin after a few hours can cause abscesses and wounds, accompanied by pus.Against the background of poisoning, a person may feel headache, nausea, weakness and fever.

Under no circumstances should the bladder poison get into the intestines or mucous membranes. This can be fatal, so in nature, adults should be careful about what little children are pulling into their mouths. The beetle can also fall into the cauldron of field porridge. In this case, you will have to say goodbye to dinner.

In contact with mucous membranes, cantharidin causes severe irritation.The affected areas of the skin or mucous membranes should be immediately washed with water and a warm soda compress should be made. It will be useful to lubricate the wounds with prednisolone ointment.

4. Ringed centipede

Photo from the site aquafors.ru

They live in the mountains and along the coast. The body of the insect reaches 10 cm in length, usually the centipedes are brown-yellow or brown-green with bright orange legs. At first glance, they are very similar to flycatchers, but the latter are not dangerous to humans.Unless they can greatly scare especially sensitive young people.

Basically, centipedes hunt at night, during the day they prefer to hide under stones or under the bark of trees. You can accidentally step on an insect, touch it with your hand, collecting a tent or turning over a stone. Scolopendra itself will not rush at you; rather, it will run away if you do not offend her. But it can be seriously harmful if it crawls into your mouth or nose while sleeping outdoors. The mucus secreted from the legs of the insect causes acute inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, which is often accompanied by bleeding, severe pain and severe nervous breakdown.

To avoid a night collision with a scolopendra in nature, spend the night in a tent that closes with a snake. Before going to bed, it will not be superfluous to carefully check the awning for uninvited guests. If you want to change, see if the centipede has slipped into the clothes in the bag (which she loves). And be careful when collecting brushwood.

Do not allow the centipede to touch exposed skin, and do not touch it with your bare hands at all. For people with weakened immune systems and allergies, the insect can do much more harm, but usually the swelling and symptoms subside within two to three days.Scolopendra venom is most dangerous in spring and autumn.

If contact with an insect does occur, treat the affected area with alcohol or soap and water, apply a sterile bandage and see a doctor as soon as possible. To relieve pain, you can apply an ice pack or cold bottle to the affected area. Drinking plenty of water is also recommended. And remember, in 100 years only three deaths were recorded after meeting with scolopendra.

5. Bees

Photo from zoopicture website.ru

They can be found both in nature and in the city. The bee attacks with a sting, which is connected to two sacs filled with poison. During the “bite” process, the sting gets stuck in the victim’s body, and the bee itself, trying to fly away, comes off. After a while, the insect dies, as it loses its organ. By the way, not all types of bees have a sting.

A bee never stings just like that. An insect attacks only when it feels threatened. The worst thing you can do when meeting a bee or a whole hive is to start waving your arms – this will attract the attention of the insects even more.Another tip – do not walk barefoot on the grass – it is not the bee’s fault that you stepped on it.

Do not dress brightly before going out into the countryside. So you can seem like a flower to the bees, and they come to collect nectar from you. Choose clothes in beige, green and white tones without a lot of wrinkles. Also, do not overuse perfume.

Often, a bee sting is limited to unpleasant sensations and torment when trying to remove the sting. Stings are dangerous if you have allergies or if a bee stings in the head, mouth, or chest.

First of all, after the bite, you need to remove the sting with tweezers or nails. Be careful not to break it or damage the poison bags. Never try to squeeze out the sting or comb the bite site. Do not swat the bee while it is sitting on you. This will push the sting even more under your skin.

If the sting is too deep, disinfect the bite site and try to pull it out with a needle. Didn’t it work out? Apply a cold compress to prevent swelling and see your doctor.

Signs of allergy include swelling of the neck and mouth, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, dizziness and loss of consciousness. The victim should be given an antihistamine, plenty of drinking water and physical activity should be minimized. If in the past a person has had attacks of life-threatening allergies, an ambulance should be called urgently. If you notice Quincke’s edema in a person (limited swelling of the skin, subcutaneous tissue and mucous membranes), urgently inject him with an antiallergic agent intravenously.If the person stops breathing, give them artificial respiration and chest compressions.

6. Wolf spider

Photo from the site topnauka.ru

Strictly speaking, spiders are not insects, but, like ticks, are arachnids, but we decided to include them in this text anyway. This cute little eye is 3 cm in size, does not weave a web and, most likely, got its name because it hunts prey like a wolf. They are often confused with tarantulas, although they are not even related.It lives everywhere, there is a high probability of meeting an insect on the ground, where it is more accustomed to hunt. Spiders, although they look impressive and scary, mostly pose a serious danger to crickets, mealworms and cockroaches. But they can also bite a person.

The effects of encountering a wolf spider range from mild muscle pain and redness to swelling of the lymph nodes and fever. But remember – an insect bite is not fatal. In case of contact, rinse the affected area with water and apply a cold compress.If the wound itches, mix baking soda with a little water and apply to the bite.

7. South Russian tarantula

Photo from the site zoopicture.ru

The record holder of our list in size, it can grow up to 5 cm. The insect lives in the ground in vertical burrows. Most often it can be found in the steppe. It hunts mainly at night, leaving the home for a short time.

The spider will not attack a person first, but if you harm him badly, then during the attack he can jump 10-15 cm.All tarantulas, not only the South Russian, are poisonous to varying degrees, but a southerner cannot kill a person.

The most unpleasant consequences of a tarantula bite for children – the affected area swells and itches for several days. To minimize discomfort, wash the bite site with soap and water, being careful not to rub the skin hard.