Summer not only dehydrates humans and other living creatures and causes plants to wither, but it also prompts snakes, scorpions, and other reptiles that inhabit in holes, burrows and deserts to venture out of their habitats.
During the scorching summer months, these creatures emerge from their hiding places in search of cooler areas. They even scale high walls to reach window sills, air conditioner exhaust areas, or bathroom ventilation fans, and find their way into homes.
A senior veterinary specialist associated with the Royal Oman Police (ROP) explained, "It is a common sight to see desert snakes, scorpions, and other reptiles seeking cooler environments. While snakes can be venomous, scorpions may or may not be." He adds, "Scorpions usually sting when they feel threatened and can hide in beds, curtains and shoes. Therefore, people must exercise caution around these creatures." A herpetologist associated with a university states, "Snakes may emerge from their hiding places during the scorching months to cool their bodies, just as they do in winter to bask in the heat. The heat provides energy to aid in digestion and keep their bodies functioning." According to him, scorpions awaken from hibernation during summer and search for cool places to hide, often choosing homes, shoes, or stacks of books and papers. As the weather gets warmer, scorpions become more active and their venomous sting can be fatal.
Before going to bed, make sure your surroundings are tidy, especially if you plan to take a nap. If you have a toddler at home, exercise extra vigilance, as they may not be aware of the presence of these creatures.
Regularly dust the curtains and keep inaccessible areas in the house, such as bathroom ventilation, window air conditioner covers, stacked toys, and spaces under the bed, clean and free from any opportunity for these creatures to settle.
Most importantly, thoroughly check your shoes before wearing them and store them in a place that reptiles cannot access.
According to the herpetologist, these animals in burrows significantly reduce their metabolic processes during summer, as they prepare for hibernation in winter and estivation in summer.
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