Residents Warned After 5 Scorpions Are Found
City officials warned residents that poisonous scorpions have been found in east Long Beach.
The city’s vector control department has discovered five “bark” scorpions in the 800 block of Kallin Avenue within the last month. No injuries have been reported, but the scorpion’s sting can cause reactions ranging from minor irritation to death in cases involving small children or elderly people with health problems.
“They are not out to be a danger to man, they just hunt insects,” said one city vector control specialist. “But they become a danger once they come into your house or they grow in number.”
Bark scorpions are usually found in areas along the Colorado River close to the Arizona border. They vary in color from light tan to brown, are 2 1/2 to 3 inches long and live in woodpiles, palm trees, decorative bark and roof shingles.
Residents are urged to take precautions against stings by removing waste lumber from places next to their homes and wearing shoes outdoors at night.
Sting victims should seek immediate medical attention and contact a professional exterminator. Information: (562) 570-4132.
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