Camel Spiders

Whilst in the city of Abu Dhabi you could almsot forget that you are on the edge of the Arabian desert. But a trip to the sand dunes* is an exciting experience and one that should not be missed.

Of course as soon as you mention the desert arachnophobics like myself remmember all those stories of camel spiders and the tales that they could grow as big as a dinner plate.

Camel Spiders aren't Spiders!

So after a little research here is what I understand about camel spiders. The aren't actually spiders they are solpugids, or solifugids. They are classified as Arachnida. Camel spiders are also known as wind scorpions or sun scorpions.

Facts & Myths

It seems that the rumours that camel spiders would eat human flesh were rumours started to scare new recruits into desert armies! Well it worked because these rumours scared me too!

But here are the Facts and the Myths

Myth Fact
Camel spiders can grow as large as dinner plates Camel spiders grow to a maximum of 6 inches
Camel spiders can jump several feet in the air Camel spiders don't jump
Camel spiders eat the stomachs of camels They do have over-sized jaws called chelicerae which have a pincer movement, but they are called camel spiders because they live in the desert and their back can appear humped.
Camel spiders have a powerful venom which anaesthetises their prey Camel spiders do not have a venom, they do have a powerful bite but would only bite prey bigger than themselves in self-defence

* It is important not to go into the dunes on your own. Either take one of the specialised Desert Safari tours or if you plan a camping trip ensure that you are with an experienced group.

Now that you know camel spiders are no threat, check out the Desert Safari

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