Camel Spiders Around the World
Camel spiders, actually solifugae(or sun spiders) and not spiders at all, are commonly known for being in the deserts of Iraq due to a picture forwarded to millions. Also known as wind scorpions, they are located in other places in the Middle East and even here in the deserts of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Southern Africa is also host to about 240 different species of these, although the ones in southern Africa are not as commonly known. Of the several hundred different species, the largest can be found in the Middle East and grows to be about 6 inches long. The Gulf War and Iraqi Freedom have contributed to their infamy by generating tall tales about these critters, overexaggerating size and skills as well as adding traits that they don't have, like venom and jumping ability.
Camel Spider Behavior
They are thought to be vicious creatures that will put you to sleep and then feast on you, but are equated to the desert's "praying mantis" by arachnologists. They are almost completely harmless and rarely ever bite a human. They are not poisonous to humans and instead prefer to stay out of the sun and away from humans. A lot of times when they are encountered by humans, the arachnid is seeking out a spot in the shade and seek the only shelter they can find. This just happens to be a soldiers gear or a sleeping bag. If you happen to encounter an Iraqi camel spider, understand that it is afraid of you and will only try to bite you if it feels threatened or is trying to protect its young.
Find More Information
If you wish to find out more information about these incredible and unique creatures, you can read about them at Wikipedia or you can go to Scorpions of Southern Africa. Both of these websites have good information and will give you a more realistic view of wind scorpions.