Understanding Solpugids: The Sun Spider or Camel Spider in Arizona

About solgupids in Arizona.

Arizona’s deserts and foothills are home to a wide array of fascinating creatures, but few inspire as much curiosity—and fear—as the Solpugid. Commonly known as the sun spider or camel spider, these arachnids are not spiders at all but belong to a unique order called Solifugae. Their scissor-like mandibles, large size, and quick movements make them a formidable presence, especially if they wander into your home.

While they don’t pose the same venomous threat as scorpions, Solpugids can still deliver a painful bite with their powerful jaws. If you’re finding these creatures around your property, understanding their behavior and how to manage them is key to maintaining a comfortable, pest-managed home.

Pro Tips for Keeping Scorpions and Other Pests Out of Your Home or Business

What Is a Solpugid?

Solpugids are arachnids, but they differ significantly from true spiders.

  • Physical Characteristics: They can grow quite large, with their bodies covered in fine hairs and their distinctive mandibles resembling scissors.
  • Habitat: Native to desert and foothill regions, they thrive in dry environments with ample hiding spots.
  • Behavior: Solpugids are non-venomous but highly aggressive if threatened. Their speed and powerful mandibles make them formidable, even though they don’t prey on humans.

Interestingly, one of their primary natural enemies is the scorpion. While that may make them seem like a helpful ally in reducing scorpion populations, most homeowners would rather not have these creatures indoors.


Are Solpugids Dangerous?

Solpugids do not pose the same risks as venomous pests like scorpions or black widow spiders, but they are not harmless.

  • Bites: While they lack venom, their mandibles can inflict painful bites that may lead to minor wounds or irritation.
  • Aggression: Solpugids may become aggressive if they feel cornered or threatened. Startling one accidentally can provoke a defensive attack.
  • Fast Movers: Their incredible speed makes them difficult to catch or eliminate.

These traits make Solpugids a nuisance pest when they enter homes, particularly in garages, basements, or hidden areas where they may go unnoticed until startled.


How to Control Solpugids

Solpugids are notoriously hard to kill, and their speed and reclusive habits can make DIY control efforts frustrating. However, there are effective strategies for reducing their presence:

1. Use Glue Boards Strategically

Glue boards are one of the most effective tools for capturing Solpugids indoors. Proper placement is key:

  • Indoors: Place glue boards in garages, behind furniture, or in corners where Solpugids may travel.
  • Outdoors: Glue boards are less effective outside due to dust and debris, which render them unusable quickly.

2. Target Food Sources

While Solpugids don’t eat human food, they are predators of insects. Reducing insect populations around your property will naturally limit their food supply and make your home less inviting.

3. Seal Entry Points

Prevent Solpugids from entering your home by sealing cracks, gaps, and other potential entry points around windows, doors, and foundations.

4. Professional Pest Control

For significant infestations or frequent sightings, professional pest control services are the best option. At Scorpion King Exterminating, we offer tailored strategies to manage both Solpugids and their insect prey, ensuring a comprehensive solution to your pest concerns.


Why Professional Help Matters

Managing Solpugids on your property can be challenging without the right tools and expertise. These arachnids are fast, elusive, and difficult to catch, making professional pest control the most reliable way to handle infestations. At Scorpion King Exterminating, we provide:

  • Thorough Inspections: Identifying key areas where Solpugids hide or enter your home.
  • Custom Solutions: Utilizing targeted glue boards and pest control treatments to reduce both Solpugids and their food sources.
  • Expert Guidance: Offering preventative measures to keep these pests out of your home for good.
Easy tips for pest control in Phoenix.

Take Action to Protect Your Home

While Solpugids may not pose a venomous threat, their intimidating presence and painful bites are enough to disrupt the comfort of your home. By understanding their behavior and working with pest control professionals, you can effectively manage these desert-dwelling arachnids.

Contact Scorpion King Exterminating today to schedule a consultation and learn how our expert team can help keep your home free of Solpugids and other pests. Let us handle the fast, aggressive pests so you can enjoy peace of mind in your Arizona home.