Tokai sits at the foot of the Constantiaberg, with Tokai Forest and the Table Mountain National Park right behind it. Large plots, big gardens and that green backdrop mean wildlife and pests come with the territory.
Crawling insects in Tokai: what we see
Argentine ants, rain spiders and crickets are everyday visitors in garden-heavy homes. Fishmoths like the damp cupboards, and scorpions show up under stones and logs.
Homes here are mostly spacious, freestanding houses on generous plots, with pools, outbuildings and established trees. Some older homes have thatched roofs or large timber features, and there are a number of security estates and townhouse complexes. Garden cottages and staff quarters add more spaces for pests to hide.
Tell-tale signs
- There are lots of crickets, cockroaches or other insects around, which gives scorpions plenty to eat.
- They turn up in shoes, towels or laundry left on the floor.
- Scorpions are found in pool filters, sumps or under pot plants after rain.
- A UV torch at night reveals scorpions glowing blue-green in the garden or along the walls.
- Scorpions are seen on walls, patios or in the garage at night.
- Scorpions appear inside after building work, landscaping or clearing rubble nearby.
Most scorpion stings in the Western Cape cause local pain and swelling similar to a bee sting. Stings from thick-tailed Parabuthus species can be much more serious, especially for small children, the elderly and people with medical conditions, and need prompt medical attention. Pets, particularly curious dogs and cats, can also be stung. If someone is stung by a thick-tailed scorpion or shows symptoms such as muscle weakness, trouble swallowing or difficulty breathing, get medical help straight away.
From the technician
For families with small children, simple habits like shaking out shoes, checking towels and keeping bedding off the floor are just as important as any treatment.
Dogs that dig and paw at things in the garden are often the ones that get stung. Keeping rockeries and woodpiles away from the areas where pets play helps a lot.
How the treatment works
Scorpions are harder to kill with contact sprays than most insects, so we focus on a combination of habitat reduction and targeted treatment. We apply a residual treatment to entry points, door thresholds, wall bases, airbricks and known hiding spots around the outside of the house. Because scorpions follow their food, we also treat for crickets, cockroaches and other insects that attract them. Where burrows are found, they can be treated directly. We pair this with practical advice on clearing debris and sealing gaps, which is often what makes the biggest difference.
- Identify the scorpion
A WhatsApp photo helps us tell whether it is a thick-tailed species that needs extra care.
- Inspect the property
We check walls, rockeries, woodpiles, paving and any gaps where scorpions shelter or get inside.
- Reduce their food
We treat for crickets, cockroaches and other insects that scorpions hunt.
- Treat hiding places and entry points
Residual products go along wall bases, thresholds, airbricks and other key spots outside.
- Remedial advice and report
You get a report with practical changes to the garden and building to make it less welcoming.
Keeping them out afterwards
- Use yellow or warm-coloured outside lights to attract fewer insects, which means fewer scorpions hunting them.
- Wear gloves when gardening, moving stones or clearing debris.
- Keep beds and cots away from walls and do not let bedding hang down to the floor.
- Move rubble, firewood, bricks and loose stones away from the walls of the house.
- Shake out shoes, boots and towels before using them, especially those left outside or on the floor.
What affects the price
The cost depends on the size of the property and garden, how much hiding space there is in rockeries and walls, and whether an insect treatment is needed to reduce their food. Properties on the edge of open veld or fynbos tend to have more ongoing pressure and may benefit from regular treatments. Follow-ups and any contract options are included in a free quote.
Clearing rubble, sealing gaps and using a UV torch to find scorpions at night can make a real difference without any chemicals. Sprays from the shop do little against scorpions because they are quite resistant to contact products. If you have small children or are finding thick-tailed scorpions, have a professional deal with it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the treatment safe for children and pets?
Products are applied outside around entry points and wall bases rather than in living areas. Keep children and pets off treated areas until dry, and we will advise you on the day.
Are scorpions in Cape Town dangerous?
Most are not, but thick-tailed Parabuthus species can deliver a serious sting. Treat any scorpion with a thick tail and slender pincers with caution.
Do you come out to Tokai for scorpion control?
Yes. Tokai is part of our regular Southern Suburbs route, along with Bergvliet, Kirstenhof, Constantia, Steenberg. Most bookings are done within about 48 hours, and after-hours visits can be arranged.
How do I tell a dangerous scorpion from a harmless one?
Look at the pincers and tail. Big, heavy pincers with a thin tail usually means mild venom; small pincers with a thick tail means you should be careful. Send us a photo if unsure.
Do rats come into Tokai homes from the forest?
Yes, the forest edge and big gardens support rodents that move into homes when it gets cold and wet. Sealing roof gaps and removing outdoor food sources makes your home far less attractive.
How often should a thatched roof in Tokai be checked for beetles?
Once a year is a good habit, and definitely before you sell. Early treatment is much simpler than dealing with heavy damage later.
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