Everyone has heard terrifying tales about what can happen if bitten by a camel spider. In fact, you have likely seen images of camel bite wounds on the internet that terrified you because it appeared that the arm of the victim would simply fall off. Let us begin by assuring you that this will not occur. However, camel spider bites are certainly painful. We sincerely ache…
The Reality about Camel Spider Bites
Let’s begin by debunking myths in order to clarify the facts. You are concerned that a camel spider will enter your bed while you are sleeping in order to chew and consume you? This will never occur.
Many myths and legends about camel spiders, such as the fact that they scream and can disembowel a camel while eating its stomach (if you look at the size of the spider, you should really wonder how that could be…) are not true.
Some sources claim that this species of spider can reach speeds of 30 miles per hour. Imagine how quickly she would have to move her legs given her size.
However, they are fast runners (about 10 MPH). But if you see a camel spider running behind you, there is no need to attempt to outrun her; she is not pursuing you. Camel spiders dislike the sun, so she is likely looking for shade from your body.
Yes, Camel spider bite. However, they prefer to prey upon lizards, insects, rodents, and snakes. Human flesh does not interest them. But if they do bite, be prepared for severe pain.
The Camel Spider
The camel spider is actually a member of the solifugae family, so it is not an arachnid. In other words, it is not an insect. This creature’s family name translates to “those who flee the sun.” As previously stated, the camel spider is most likely not trying to bite you when she runs; she is simply trying to avoid the sun’s rays.
However, they do resemble a combination of a spider and a scorpion. It is no wonder that they are also known as sun spiders, sand spiders, and wind spiders.
The first thing you will notice about a camel spider is that it is bulky, brown in color, and bushy. Their abdomen is divided into numerous sections. Its long, shiny hair conceals its long legs. The jaws of a camel spider, which it uses to pierce, crush, and chomp its prey, are without a doubt the defining characteristic of its body.
However, do not be deceived as they come in various sizes. Therefore, it cannot bite you simply because it is only 0.5mm long. They can be up to 6 inches in size in their larger format.
Where Can You Come across a Camel Spider?
If you live in a large city, you will likely never encounter a camel spider. That is, unless you decide to visit a desert one day, which is where they reside. Their primary adversary is sunlight. To avoid it, they bury themselves in the sand of the desert.
It also allows them to maintain a low body temperature. Consequently, they are night creatures, as they emerge from their burrows only after the sun has set to begin hunting.
What Happens if a Camel Spider Bites You?
Occasionally, you can see the camel spider bite you, at which point you are certain that this is what happened. Otherwise, you should look for the following symptoms to confirm the diagnosis.
If you are bitten by a camel spider, you will initially feel the sting, which will then transform into excruciating pain.
Inflammation and sensitivity are caused by the spider bite, which sends the surrounding tissues into a state of shock. It causes inflammation and sensitivity of the skin surrounding the wound. But don’t worry, this is a completely normal occurrence, and you won’t lose an appendage!
Blood loss: Depending on the location and severity of the bite, there may be a small or even significant amount of blood loss. Act as you deem appropriate in this circumstance.
How Can You Treat it?
Due to the fact that they are nonvenomous, bites from camel spiders typically pose no risk. However, if you have preexisting conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disorder, or allergies, you should consult a physician to ensure that no complications will arise.
Remember that the terrifying tales you’ve heard about the camel spider are all myths. The next time you encounter one, there is no need for alarm. Simply maintain your distance so it does not feel threatened and bite you.