Arizona species
Sun spiders (solpugids) in Arizona: not true spiders, not venomous
Order Solifugae
Not a true spider and not venomous. A fast, beneficial desert predator that sometimes follows crickets indoors.
Source: University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Solpugids (Backyard Gardener)
How to identify
- Not a true spider: an arachnid in its own order, Solifugae.
- Light tan to brown, often with a darker abdomen.
- Large forward jaws and leg-like pedipalps held up in front.
- Very fast runner, mostly active at night.
- Size
- About 5/8 to 1 3/4 inch long in the western U.S., according to UA Extension.
- Habitat
- Outdoors on desert ground and around homes; indoors they are usually following crickets or other insects, or looking for a way back out.
- Where in Arizona
- The southwestern U.S. has over 50 solpugid species, UA Extension says, including in the Gila Valley and Sierra Vista areas.
Look-alikes
Prevention
- Seal gaps around doors, windows and utility lines.
- Repair screens and add door sweeps.
- Reduce clutter near walls and in garages.
- Cut down on the insects spiders feed on, including near outdoor lights.
Call Hydra if sun spiders keep turning up indoors. UA Extension notes that usually means insects such as crickets are living inside and feeding them, so our Service Pros look for the food source and the entry points.
When to call Hydra
Call or text us, we answer both. Or send us your details and we'll come back with a free custom quote.
Frequently asked questions
Are sun spiders venomous?
No. University of Arizona Extension says none are known to have venom, and they have no stinger. They are fast, beneficial predators that may even kill an occasional scorpion or centipede.
Are sun spiders real spiders?
No. Sun spiders, also called solpugids, wind scorpions or camel spiders, are arachnids in the order Solifugae, a separate group from true spiders.
How do I get a sun spider out of the house?
UA Extension suggests catching it under a jar or glass and moving it outdoors, then sealing gaps and weather stripping. Pesticides are not recommended for solpugids.