Windscorpions

Eremobates species

Windscorpions are related to scorpions and spiders, but they are a unique group. They have eight walking legs and a pair of armlike structures that they hold out in front to feel (and taste) ahead of them. They do not have a tail or a stinger like a scorpion, or fangs like a spider, but they can bite. Windscorpions are always moving as if they are in a hurry; they are often encountered under night lights where they feed on insects.

Look For : Tan body, with gray-green on back. Pincer-like claws on first pair of legs.

Length : 5/8-1 3/4".

Habitat : Arid, semiarid areas.

Range : Western and southwestern U.S.; southwestern Canada.