Camel spiders, often misunderstood and feared, are fascinating creatures found in desert environments. These arachnids, also known as wind scorpions or sun spiders, have a unique appearance and possess intriguing attributes worth exploring.
Despite their name, camel spiders do not actually belong to the spider family. They are part of the Solifugae order, which is a separate group within the arachnid class. They have an unusually large central pair of jaws and can grow up to six inches in length.
As predominantly nocturnal hunters, they commonly feed on insects, small rodents, and even other arachnids. Their astonishing speed – reaching up to 10 miles per hour – and ability to withstand harsh desert conditions make camel spiders truly remarkable members of the animal kingdom.
What Are Camel Spiders?
Arachnid Classification
Camel spiders belong to the class Arachnida, which also includes scorpions, ticks, and mites. These creatures are arthropods, meaning they have exoskeletons and jointed legs. Some notable features of arachnids are:
- Eight legs
- Two main body parts (cephalothorax and abdomen)
- No wings or antennae
Camel spiders, also known as solifuges, sun spiders, or wind scorpions, are not true spiders (order Araneae). They belong to the order Solifugae within the class Arachnida.
Taxonomy and Species
The order Solifugae contains more than 1,000 species of camel spiders. These creatures are most commonly found in deserts and arid regions around the world. Some characteristics of camel spiders include:
- Large, forward-facing, chelicerae (jaws)
- No venom glands
- Hairy, spider-like appearance
- Long legs, which aid in running and capturing prey
Here is a comparison between camel spiders (Solifugae) and true spiders (Araneae):
| Feature | Camel Spiders (Solifugae) | True Spiders (Araneae) |
|---|---|---|
| Venom glands | No | Yes (in most species) |
| Silk glands | No | Yes |
| Wings | No | No |
| Antennae | No | No |
In conclusion, camel spiders are fascinating arachnids that differ significantly from true spiders. Their unique features and characteristics set them apart from other members of the class Arachnida.
Appearance and Anatomy
Size and Coloration
Camel spiders, also known as solifuges, are quite peculiar creatures. They are usually 0.5 to 6 inches in length, depending on the species. Their coloration ranges from beige to brown, helping them blend in with their sandy environments.
Chelicerae and Pedipalps
Camel spiders have distinctive chelicerae and pedipalps:
- Chelicerae: These are impressive, oversized mouthparts which can be as long as one-third of their body length. They are filled with sharp teeth that grind prey into a paste for easy consumption.
- Pedipalps: Positioned near the mouth, pedipalps are leg-like appendages that are tipped with adhesive pads used to grasp prey. They also hold the female’s eggs during mating.
Examples:
- Galeodes arabs is a species found in the Middle East that reaches a length of up to 6 inches.
- Eremobates pallipes, also known as the American Desert Camel Spider, is typically beige and measures about 3 inches in length.
Comparison Table:
| Feature | Camel Spiders | True Spiders |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 0.5 to 6 inches (depending on the species) | Varies greatly, from less than 1mm to 11 inches |
| Chelicerae | Large, elongated, and quite robust | Smaller, often less noticeable in many species |
| Pedipalps | Leg-like, with adhesive pads on the tips | More similar to legs in males, used in copulation |
Characteristics:
- Hairy body to deal with harsh desert climates
- Quick, agile, and nocturnal predators
- Non-venomous and not harmful to humans
Habitats and Behavior
Geographical Distribution
Camel spiders, also known as solifugae, are arachnids found in various habitats around the world, except for Australia and Antarctica. They are most commonly associated with the Middle Eastern deserts, but they have also been reported during the Gulf War and Iraq War.
Nocturnal Lifestyle
These creatures are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. Their preference for the night helps them avoid the scorching daytime temperatures in deserts, and they tend to seek out shade during the day.
Speed and Movement
Camel spiders are known for their remarkable speed and agile movements. Typical speeds vary, but they can reach up to:
- 10 miles per hour (16 kilometers per hour) for short periods
- Crawl or run up to 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) per hour on average
These speeds allow them to actively hunt prey and escape predators.
Feeding Habits
Camel spiders are carnivores, mainly feeding on insects, small rodents, and other arachnids. Some examples of their prey include:
- Termites
- Beetles
- Lizards
Their feeding habits involve catching the prey with their pedipalps (appendages near their mouth) and using their strong jaws to crush and consume it.
| Characteristics | Camel Spiders |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Deserts, grasslands, and various arid habitats |
| Distribution | Middle East, parts of Africa, Asia, North and South America; not found in Australia, Antarctica |
| Activity Period | Nocturnal (active during the night) |
| Speed | Up to 10 miles per hour (16 km/h) for short bursts |
| Diet | Carnivorous (insects, small rodents, and other arachnids) |
In summary, camel spiders are fast-moving nocturnal arachnids that inhabit arid environments such as deserts. They are carnivorous and have adaptable feeding habits to survive in their harsh environments.
Dispelling Myths about Camel Spiders
Screaming and Hissing
Many believe that camel spiders can scream and hiss, but this is a myth. Camel spiders do not have vocal cords, so they cannot produce sounds like screaming or hissing. Their biology does not support this ability.
Jumping Abilities
- Camel spiders are not known for their jumping abilities
- Unlike jumping spiders, camel spiders don’t possess the adaptations required for jumping long distances
For more context:
| Jumping Spiders | Camel Spiders |
|---|---|
| Known jumpers | Cannot jump |
| Short jumps | Crawling |
Disemboweling Prey
Another myth surrounding camel spiders is that they can disembowel prey. This claim is also untrue. Camel spiders are not predators capable of such actions. They primarily feed on smaller insects and other arthropods.
Attacking Sleeping Soldiers
The urban legend of camel spiders attacking sleeping soldiers has no basis in fact. While camel spiders may bite if threatened, they are not aggressive towards humans, especially sleeping individuals. The photos shared in this context are often misleading or taken out of context.
Camel Spider Bites and Venom
Bite Mechanics
Camel spiders, also known as camel crickets, have a unique set of features that distinguish them from other spiders:
- Slightly humpbacked appearance
- Long legs, giving them a spider-like look
- Lack of wings in the adult stage
Despite their name, camel spiders are not true spiders but are actually solifugae, a separate order of arachnids.
Venom Content
Camel spiders do not possess venom glands, unlike many other spiders. As a result, their bite is not venomous. They rely on their strong jaws and speed to catch and consume their prey, which primarily includes small insects and other arthropods.
Effect on Humans
Since camel spiders do not have venom, their bites are generally harmless to humans. However, a bite from a camel spider can still be painful and cause some discomfort. In case of a bite, it is advised to clean the wound and apply an ice pack to help reduce pain and swelling. Contacting a healthcare professional is always a wise choice if you’re unsure about the severity of a bite.
Remember, camel spiders are not dangerous to humans, and their bite is not venomous. So there is no need to fear these creatures.
Camel Spiders as Pets
Housing and Care Requirements
Camel spiders, also known as wind scorpions, are desert-dwelling arachnids. They require a dry, warm environment to thrive. To simulate their natural habitat, a well-ventilated terrarium with a heat lamp is essential.
To house them, consider the following:
- A minimum of 5-gallon enclosure
- Sand, coconut fiber, or a mix as the substrate
- Rocks and hiding spots to mimic their natural environment
- Temperature range between 80-90°F (26-32°C)
- Low humidity (30-50%)
Camel spiders are carnivorous and need a diet of live prey. Feeding them insects like crickets, mealworms, or small lizards can provide proper nutrition. Feed adults every 2-3 days, while juveniles can eat daily.
Do They Make Good Pets?
Camel spiders have a mixed reputation as pets. Pros and cons of owning a camel spider include:
Pros:
- Unique and fascinating appearance
- No venom harmful to humans
- Low allergenic properties compared to other arachnids
Cons:
- Known for their aggression and agility
- Can run up to 30 mph (48 km/h) which might make them difficult to handle
- Limited availability in the pet trade
- Lack of comprehensive care information
Comparing them to other common pet spiders:
| Feature | Camel Spider | Tarantula | Jumping Spider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Size | 2-6 inches | 2.5-11 inches | 0.1-0.9 inches |
| Lifespan |
45 Comments. Leave new
That is an exceptionally “scary” looking picture of a Solifugid, and looks like it could give someone a very painful bite!
found this right after i sent in a picture of it. awesome. don’t worry, i let the fast, little guy romp around on my hand until i got a good picture then let it free.
OMGOSH!
I’d throw my whole house in the trash if I saw a few of those running around haha
WTB’s efforts to calm fears about solfugids has a new challenge: There’s a new movie out called “Camel Spiders!” (another name for solfugids). The cover has a chilling image of camel spiders crawling all over someone’s face.
Are you able to supply the link? Sorry about the late response. Your comment arrived when we experienced incredible technical difficulties and we didn’t realize there were so many unapproved comments.
We don’t have this in Hawaii!
Okay so i know they are harmless, but i have found FOUR solifugid bugs in my house in the last two weeks! FOUR! Who wants that (okay besides buf lovers like yourselves lol.) I live in Rio Rancho, NM. I have owned my house and lived in it for 11 years now and I don’t think I have ever seen even one before this! I am wondering if there could be a breeding ground or nest somewhere! Things that come to mind as far as changes are… 1. Two. Years ago reptiles entire house. Had to rip old ones out of the wall And dig a trench in my kitchen and install new pipes and seal it all back up. 2. Wet weather these last few weeks 3. All have been found on a ceiling or wall up high , possibly coming through vents. Please help! I would rather not call an exterminator to spray chemicals throughout my home!
Repiped not reptiles lol!
I captured a Brazilian Wandering Spider in my house in this manner these days, I’ll attempt to make a video, so people can learn how to catch dangerous creatures safely and take them back to nature.
Thanks Cesar.
I killed a big one just a few min ago in my bathroom. I feel a bit bad now, but it was very fast, and I didn’t have time to research it before my window of attack closed. I didn’t want to chance that it may be poisonous and threaten me or my roommates while we were sleeping. Next time I know, it’s basically harmless. Scary looking as shit though. May he rest in peace
I’m also in Key West, FL
I just had one of those damn wind scorpions sun spiders run down my shirt while I was sitting on my couch. I almost had a heart attack at 28. I’m in central colorado ,I was under the impression they were more of a desert species. I can’t sleep now because I can see his creepy little mandible face …..I know he was trying to kill me. Omg freak out!
While they are more common in arid location, Solifugids have been reported on BugGuide from most states west of the Mississippi River as well as Florida.
we were just finishing our 4th of july bar-b-que, and filling our pool at about 11:30 p.m. , feeling pretty happy that we had all of that finally under our belt, long story, we were sitting there eating some awesome grub, out of the corner of both of our eyes something moving quite quickly came into view, we both almost jumped out of our skin as they say; this thing was three feet long and two feet wide, well not exactly, really only two inches long, but scared the you know what out of us!!! it was a solifugid trying it’s hardest to get under our back door which has an inch gap, that we have been fighting since we moved in !! it’s pretty much blocked but still this guy was trying, i don’t like killing any living thing but, this guy had to go, i mean we’ve had a few in our house already, just babys, compared to this guy so seeing his size and ambition i went into battle ! and this guy did not go easily at all, sparing the details, it took some doing, i have much respect for these earthbound animals!!!
It looks like a sun or wind scorpion.
Which is a common name for a Solifugid.
Camel spider!
Scary looking but not poisonous.
Lived in Zambia for a couple of years and saw a lot of these. We called them ‘scuttlers’ and their speed was amazing. They could run and dodge with stunning agility. Even the cats had a hard time catching them !
Solifugid-EW!! Found two in the basement. Scary looking. Good to know they aren’t venomous. I’ll toss the next one I see into the garden.
I think i have seen these before in Yuba County foothills. I know we have the ugly potato bugs. eewwww
Really cool critter with an undeserved bad rap.
My wife was just bitten by one in Key West. No venom but a painful bite; she was bitten twice while sleeping. Painful.
We have always indicated that a painful, but not dangerous bite is possible with a Solifugid.
Hello, i thought i’d let you know the genus of this windscorpion.
she’s (its a female) an Eremorhax species, a large bulky genus found in california, new mexico, arizona, and texas. I do not know the species, however.
The excessively fuzzy body, enormous chelicerae, and short stubby legs- somewhat similar in appearance to the old world genus- rhagodes makes it easy to id to genus.
Hello, i thought i’d let you know the genus of this windscorpion.
she’s (its a female) an Eremorhax species, a large bulky genus found in california, new mexico, arizona, and texas. I do not know the species, however.
The excessively fuzzy body, enormous chelicerae, and short stubby legs- somewhat similar in appearance to the old world genus- rhagodes makes it easy to id to genus.
found this type of spider’s in my room.
I live in a little fishing village off the west coast of south Africa called Velddrif and these “spiders” are everywhere. I believe they feed on termites, which makes sense here because there are termite mounds absolutely everywhere.
I think I found a sun spider do I have to worry about my sisters kittens they are very tiny still? Are they a hazard to chicks?
If you are in the Middle East where they are known as Camel Spiders, you might not want them near young chicks, but North American species are too small to be of concern.
Do not be afraid it is helpful creature. Before we forced into this insanity, never a problem.
Nice bug.
Do not be afraid. We like these bugs
We are curious what you call them?
This one looks like trouble.
Bugs or not we are here.
Do not be afraid it is helpful creature. Before we forced into this insanity, never a problem.
Nice bug.
Do not be afraid. We like these bugs
We are curious what you call them?
This one looks like trouble.
Bugs or not we are here.
I found one in my house near the beach in Rio Hato, Panama. Super fast! It gave us a good scare.
I know this is a very old post and you’re probably very well aware of all of this info by now, but there was never any follow-up on this post so I assume commenting with this info won’t hurt. these guys are often referred to as Teddy Solifugids or Mole Solfugids. If you want more info, all of this poster’s attached images go on the appear in this article:
https://arthropodecology.com/2015/10/16/the-natural-history-of-teddy-bear-solifugids-cuddly-wonders-of-the-desert/
Thanks for that information.
I know this is a very old post and you’re probably very well aware of all of this info by now, but there was never any follow-up on this post so I assume commenting with this info won’t hurt. these guys are often referred to as Teddy Solifugids or Mole Solfugids. If you want more info, all of this poster’s attached images go on the appear in this article:
https://arthropodecology.com/2015/10/16/the-natural-history-of-teddy-bear-solifugids-cuddly-wonders-of-the-desert/
I think I just saw one in Islamabad, Pakistan. Pretty big for a house insect.
Just found one at willow creek western side of idaho.
We live in a basement apartment in Mountain Home Idaho. Had one in shower this morning. Then found one on the wall tonight.
As a Zambian, I must say based off of what I’ve witnessed the sting from these bites are terrible. The Villagers comments might seem like a myth but I dare you to allow it to bite you the next time you have such an encounter. I’ve seen these spiders eat small frogs and they chase people I saw one just yesterday and mistook it for a baby rat because of its speed. So for those who’ve had a real encounter with their aggressive side just be cautious the bites have nasty effects. Stay safe.
Have just been bitten by it am really scared
Just found one on my kitchen floor. Still in basement apartment, in Mountain Home Idaho. 🕷️creepy.
Just from killing one
What medication can we use to kill them because this is the second one I have killed in my house in less than 2 weeks