The Sun Spider is an arachnid, but it isn't classified as a true spider.

Known for its incredible speed and powerful jaws, the sun spider, also called wind scorpions or camel spiders, is neither a spider nor a scorpion. It belongs to the Solifugae order, a group of highly specialized, fast-moving arachnids.

Sun spiders can be found in deserts and subtropical regions across the globe. Interestingly, they also share a unique connection to the Marvel Universe's Spider-Verse. Let's explore further.

How to Identify the Sun Spider

Sun spiders are arachnids that range in size from moderately small to large, with body lengths spanning from 1 to 8 inches (2 to 20 centimeters), depending on the species.

Their coloration can range from pale yellow to reddish-brown, aiding in camouflage within sandy habitats. Sun spiders are often mistaken for tailless whip scorpions or true camel spiders, but they can be identified by their large, forward-facing jaws, which account for nearly one-third of their body length.

The body of a sun spider is divided into seven segments, with four pairs of walking legs and two pairs of leg-like pedipalps, which are used for sensing and manipulating their surroundings. Unlike true spiders, solifugae lack venom glands and are unable to spin silk.

Are Sun Spiders Dangerous?

Despite their fearsome appearance, sun spiders are harmless to humans. Since solifugae do not possess venom glands, they cannot inject venom into their prey or potential threats. However, their powerful jaws can inflict a painful pinch.

These arachnids primarily hunt other arthropods and insects, positioning them as important predators within their ecosystems.

Where Are Sun Spiders Commonly Found?

Sun spiders flourish in arid and semiarid regions, including deserts and subtropical areas. They are most commonly found in sandy habitats or dry, open landscapes.

These arachnids are especially abundant in the Middle East, Africa, and the southwestern United States. As nocturnal hunters, they often seek shelter under rocks or burrow into sand during the day to avoid the intense heat.

What Attracts and Deters Sun Spiders?

Sun spiders are drawn to environments rich in prey, such as insects and other arthropods. They favor loose, sandy soil for burrowing and seek refuge in sheltered areas like crevices or beneath rocks during the day for protection.

Insects, which are their main food source, significantly influence the locations where sun spiders can be found.

To keep sun spiders away, maintain clean outdoor areas free of debris where they might take cover. While they aren’t dangerous, limiting their access to potential hiding spots can minimize encounters near homes or campsites.

Sun-Spider in the Marvel Universe

For Spider-Verse enthusiasts: Did you know there’s a Marvel superhero from Earth-20023 inspired by sun spiders? Charlotte Webber — also known as Charlie, or Sun-Spider — is an LGBTQ superhero with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome who uses her incredible agility and web-slinging skills to fight crime.

Her character brings crucial disability representation to the Spider-Verse, demonstrating that heroes come in many different forms. Unlike real-life sun spiders, which don't spin webs, Marvel's Sun-Spider uses her webs to swing across the city and fight villains.

She’s a remarkable addition to the expanding roster of spider-powered heroes, alongside Gwen Stacy, Miles Morales, Peter Parker, and Silk.