Camel spiders (order Solifugae), also called sun spiders, wind scorpions, or solpugids, are not true spiders — they belong to their own arachnid order and are more closely related to scorpions than to spiders. Arizona is home to numerous camel spider species, and they are common in desert environments throughout the state. Adults are typically 1–3 inches in body length with a tan to brown coloration and are covered in hair. The most distinctive feature is their enormous chelicerae (jaws), which can be up to 1/3 of their total body length and are used to crush prey. Camel spiders are fast runners — capable of speeds up to 10 mph — and are active hunters that chase down insects, small lizards, and other arthropods. They are the subject of many exaggerated myths (they do not chase humans, are not venomous, and do not eat camels). Their bite is painful due to the powerful chelicerae but is not venomous.
👁Warning Signs
Large, hairy, tan to brown arachnid with enormous jaws running rapidly across desert terrain or floors. Active at night; attracted to lights. Fast, erratic movement.
⚠Health & Property Risks
Bite is painful due to powerful chelicerae but is not venomous. Clean the wound to prevent infection. Not a significant medical concern.
Prevention Tips
Seal gaps under doors and around windows. Reduce outdoor lighting that attracts insects (camel spider prey). Not a significant household pest.
🛡Professional Treatment
Perimeter treatments and entry point sealing if frequently entering the home. Generally not a pest concern.
Frequently Asked Questions — Camel Spider
The Camel Spider (Solifugae (order)) is tan to brown; covered in hair; enormous chelicerae and typically measures 1–3 inches body length. Camel spiders (order Solifugae), also called sun spiders, wind scorpions, or solpugids, are not true spiders — they belong to their own arachnid order and are more closely related to scorpions than to.
The Camel Spider is generally low-risk, but caution is still advised. Bite is painful due to powerful chelicerae but is not venomous. Clean the wound to prevent infection. Not a significant medical concern.
In Arizona, camel spiders are most often encountered in the following situations: Large, hairy, tan to brown arachnid with enormous jaws running rapidly across desert terrain or floors. Active at night; attracted to lights. Fast, erratic movement.
The Camel Spider is most active during: Most active in warm months; nocturnal; most commonly encountered in summer. Arizona's warm desert climate can extend activity periods compared to other states, so year-round vigilance is recommended in the Phoenix metro and surrounding areas.
Seal gaps under doors and around windows. Reduce outdoor lighting that attracts insects (camel spider prey). Not a significant household pest.
Perimeter treatments and entry point sealing if frequently entering the home. Generally not a pest concern.
If you spot a Camel Spider indoors, avoid handling it directly. Capture it under a glass if possible for identification, or photograph it for reference. Contact Pest Control Bros for a professional inspection — we can confirm the species, assess the severity of the infestation, and recommend targeted treatment.
Dealing with Camel Spider?
Pest Control Bros LLC serves Maricopa, Chandler, Casa Grande, Tempe, Gilbert, and Mesa. No contracts. Free inspections. Same-week service.
Related Articles — Camel Spider
Wolf Spiders in Arizona: Identification, Bites, and How to Get Rid of Them
9 min read · Spiders
Black Widow Spiders in Arizona: How to Identify, Avoid, and Remove Them
7 min read · Spiders
Spider Control in Maricopa, AZ: Black Widows, Brown Recluse & Wolf Spiders
7 min read · Spiders
Black Widow vs Brown Widow Spider: Arizona ID Guide
10 min read · Spiders