Camel Spiders in the U.S.

In the United States

• There are about 120 identified species of solifugae in the United States. Most of these species are confined to the Southwestern states, such as Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas. They are desert-dwelling creatures, hence their name and proliferation throughout the Southwest. Some species found in the United States include Ammotrecha cobinensis, Ammotrecha stollii, Ammotrechella setulosa, and many members of the Eremobatidae family, including Eremochelis bilobatus.

Description

• Camel spiders are relatively large arachnids, growing up to 2 inches long in the United States. Outside of the United States., the arachnids may grow upwards of 7 inches. They are usually tan in color with eight legs, two of which are used primarily as feelers. They are known for their rather large mouth parts, which allow it to feed on a variety of items.

Diet and Behavior

• Camel spiders are primarily carnivorous and eat a wide range of meaty products, including other insects and occasionally small lizards. They are nocturnal predators, only emerging at night when it's cool in the desert. They are oft-considered beneficial despite their fearsome reputation since they eliminate pest insects, such as spiders or scorpions that could pose a threat to humans.

Relationship with Humans

• Camel spiders are not naturally aggressive and many of the stories associated with camel spider bites are reportedly exaggerations. They do not have venom or poison and instead rely on their large jaws for biting, which they only do in the case of self-defense. A bite from a camel spider may be painful and require medical attention to prevent infection, but bites only typically occur when it is handled.