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View Full Version : Iraq is a cool place to be... not


l3lizz4rd
2004.04.11, 1750
http://home.comcast.net/~e.franzen/camelspider.jpg

MVTek
2004.04.11, 1755
what the... f....

ControlledBurn
2004.04.11, 1805
Camel spiders.

Triggar
2004.04.11, 1857
Holy shit.

myrtar
2004.04.12, 0816
s.

in case any of you mistook that to be a single creature.

also,

Camel spiders are one of the fastest running arthropods. Although they have four pairs of legs, they run using only three pairs. The first pair of legs or pedipalpi are held up in front of them and used in a similar manner to the antennae of insects. They have very long, silky setae and are constantly moving in order to locate and pick-up prey. Despite their fearsome appearance and their strong bite, solifugids are unlikely to harm humans. In the past they were considered venomous and extremely dangerous but it is now thought that the only risk of injury resulting from them is caused by shock or infection following a bite. There is no evidence of venom in any part of their body.

Camel spiders are nocturnal predators of other arthropods including scorpions and are voracious feeders. Some species kill and feed on lizards and it is speculated that others kill mice and birds. They rely solely on their speed and stealth to catch their prey. In desert areas they are often attracted to lights at night in search of food and their appearance can cause alarm if they enter tents. It is rare to see them during the winter months and they are thought to hide or hibernate during cold periods.

another good read: http://www.straightdope.com/mailbag/mcamelspider.html

MVTek
2004.04.12, 1305
Mommy, can we keep them?

Triggar
2004.04.12, 1601
I googled "camel spiders" as well, and had the jibblies for a record 20 minutes afterwards.

MVTek
2004.04.12, 1701
jibbly jibblies...

MVTek
2004.04.12, 1706
JIBBLIES!!!!

http://www.defence.gov.au/news/raafnews/editions/4509/images/camel%20spider%2001-2.jpg