First Solifugid

[desertrat]

Hi All,

First time in the boards and my first solifugid. Here in the Mojave they are pretty common we're getting quite a few in our building at work as some construction is underway - apparently disturbing their habitat.

Wanted to try posting some pics to show, 1. they will climb (sorry for the poor quality on this one, lots of reflection with the flash and not enough light without) and 2. some general pics of it eating a cricket.

I've had this only a few days and have found the following:

• Did not run around the enclosure when first captured (I understand this behavior is common)
• Immediately started to dig in the sand (not successful as it appaently has the wrong consistency)
• Apparently did not like the rock to burrow under or hide behind as it did climb the enclosure to hide in the corner.
• Loves pinheads

I've since replaced the rock (see climbing picture) with a piece of broken flower pot. It seems to find that hide more acceptable as it's moved right in. I also dampened the sand to see if it would have a better consistency for burrowing.

btw - I've already read the stickies regarding this critter, seems there's a bit of a disagreement on "proper" husbandry. I'll continue posting my success or failure.

 

[desertrat]

Pictures

Okay, my attempt to insert the pics into the post didn't work. Gotta read the instructions, I guess!

There, that does it! Enjoy.

 

[kraken]

Cool! I have always wanted to try my hand at them! Good luck!

 

[desertrat]

Sunspider is outa here

Well, my 4 year old started having nightmares about the sunspider, so we released it back into "the wild." (our back yard) The welfare of my son is far more important than any "pet" I drag home. (No matter how interesting it is.)

We did find an immature L. hesperus that found it's way into the house. It was so skinny that at first I didn't think it could be one. A couple bugs later, and it's fattening up nicely. So far, no bad dreams from boy! (We'll see how long his mom tolerates this species in the house!)