Arachnid

Wind Scorpion

Ammotrecha

Low Risk

Biology

Ammotrecha and related solifugids are arachnids commonly called wind scorpions or sun spiders. They have large, powerful chelicerae, long legs, and no venom gland or stinger. Body length ranges from 2–5 cm in North American species.

Behaviour

Solifugids are fast, nocturnal predators of insects, spiders, and small vertebrates in arid regions. They are solitary and highly mobile, often entering structures while hunting prey. Despite their formidable jaws, they are not venomous.

Habits

They are most often encountered in desert and semi-arid regions when they wander into garages, sheds, and ground-floor rooms. Bites can be painful and may break skin but are not medically significant beyond local wound care.

Control methods

1Seal ground-level gaps, door sweeps, and window screens
2Reduce outdoor lighting that attracts insect prey
3Remove debris, woodpiles, and stones near the foundation
4Use a container to capture and release solifugids outdoors
5Clean any bite wound with soap and water
6Reassure occupants that they are not venomous

Tailored to Wind Scorpion

IPM Procedure Checklist

View full procedure

Step 1

Inspection

Survey interior and exterior for evidence and conducive conditions
Document findings with photos and a site map
Place monitors to confirm activity

Step 2

Identification

Confirm Wind Scorpion (Ammotrecha) — not a look-alike
Note life stage and risk level: Low
Capture clear photos and samples for the record

Step 3

Action Thresholds

Tolerate low-level activity outside sensitive zones
Act if activity moves indoors or near food
Review threshold seasonally with the client

Step 4

Prevention

Exclude entry points and harborage
Improve sanitation and moisture control
Modify habitat around the structure

Step 5

Control Methods

Seal ground-level gaps, door sweeps, and window screens
Reduce outdoor lighting that attracts insect prey
Remove debris, woodpiles, and stones near the foundation
Use a container to capture and release solifugids outdoors

Step 6

Monitoring & Evaluation

Service monitors on schedule and trend captures
Re-inspect for Wind Scorpion activity at follow-up
Adjust tactics based on data; report findings to client