 |
|
 |
DISTRIBUTION
The Vinegaroon, or whip scorpion, is found in
the desert environments of much of the southern U.S but have also
been reported in grassland, scrub, pine forests, and mountains.
It likes to hide under rocks and logs to escape the desert heat
during the day. |
| |
|
|
 |
 |
DESCRIPTION
Vinegaroons
have heavy mouthparts (pedipalps) that are formed into
pincers. The first pair of legs is long and thin and is
used like antenna to feel their way around. The next three
pairs of legs are used for walking. The abdomen is attached
widely to the head-thorax region (cephalothorax). The
tail is long and thin suggesting a whip which is where
the common name, "whip scorpion," originates.
Most are either dark brown or black in color. The full
grown size can be up to 6 inches, including the front
legs and the whip-tail.
The Vinegaroon
is considered to be non-poisonous, but can give a painful
pinch with it's pedipalps.
|
|
| |
|
|
DIET
Babies eat pinhead crickets, and other small
insects. Adults eat crickets, and other large insects.Vinegaroons
are nocturnal and have poor vision, relying on sensing vibrations
to locate prey. |
| |
|
|
 |
REPRODUCTION
Eggs are carried in a sac by the female.
After hatching, they ride on the female’s back similar
to scorpions.. |
|
| |
|
|
INTERESTING FACTS
1. The vinegaroon got its name because
at the base of its tail is a gland that produces a harmless
vinegar scented acetic acid which it will squirt out when
threatened. |
|
| |
Click on the crayons to color a picture of the
Vinegaroon! |
| |
 |
| |
