Do Camel Spiders Live in Surprise, Arizona?
Camel spiders, also known as sun spiders or wind scorpions are a group of arachnids that can be found in Surprise, AZ. These creatures thrive in desert environments, including Surprise, due to their ability to adapt to extreme temperatures and limited water sources. They are native to deserts in the Middle East but can be found in the Sonoran Desert here in Arizona.
Are Camel Spiders Actually Spiders?
Camel spiders are not true spiders, they are solpugids. While they are arachnids like spiders, they belong to a different order called Solifugae. True spiders belong to the order Araneae. Camel spiders have some distinct differences from true spiders, including their appearance and behavior. Some of these differences include:
- Chelicerae: Camel spiders have large, powerful chelicerae (jaws) that they use for capturing and consuming prey, whereas true spiders typically have smaller chelicerae used for injecting venom into their prey.
- Abdomen: Camel spiders have a segmented, unsegmented body, unlike true spiders, which have two distinct body segments (cephalothorax and abdomen).
- Legs: Camel spiders have ten legs, while true spiders have eight legs.
- Spinnerets: True spiders possess spinnerets, which they use to produce silk for building webs. Camel spiders do not produce silk or build webs.
Are Camel Spiders Poisonous?
Camel do not have venom glands or fangs to inject venom into their prey the way that true spiders do. Instead, camel spiders are opportunistic predators and feed on insects, other arachnids, and small vertebrates using their powerful jaws (chelicerae).
Camel Spider Bites
Camel spiders only bite humans when they feel threatened. Since they are not venomous, the most damage the bite will do is cause an infection if it's not properly treated. These arachnids are generally harmless to humans, despite their threatening appearance.
How Big Are Camel Spiders?
Camel spiders can vary in size depending on the species. On average, most are between 1 to 6 inches (2.5 to 15 centimeters) in length, with their leg span included. Some of the largest species may reach up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) or more in leg span. Their appearance can be quite intimidating due to their large, elongated bodies and long, powerful legs.
How Fast is a Camel Spider?
Camel spiders are known for their impressive speed and agility. They are fast runners relative to their size, and they can move quickly when they need to chase down prey or escape from potential threats. They have been reported to move at speeds of up to 10 miles per hour (16 kilometers per hour), which is quite impressive for their size. Their speed is a result of their unique leg structure and physiology, which allows them to move rapidly across the desert terrain.
Call Greenleaf for Spider Control in Surprise, AZ
While it's unlikely to find a camel spider in your home, it is possible living here in the desert. If your home has a spider problem, or any other pest issue, call Greenleaf! Our exterminators in Surprise are experts in the local pest challenges we have here in Arizona, and are ready to provide you with same-day service if you call before noon. Even if you don't have a spider problem, our team can spray to prevent one from ever happening. Contact us today!
