This ugly thing is a solifuge. Solifuges are often mistaken for so-called potato bugs. A potato bug, however, is an insect. Like all insects, potato bugs have six legs. On the other hand, a solifuge is an arachnid, like spiders, scorpions, and ticks, all of which have eight legs. The solifuge shown in the above photo was found in a residence north of Orland several years ago. It was on the floor next to this reporter’s bare toe. As those mandibles indicate, it could have delivered a nasty bite. Fortunately, solifuges aren’t venomous. They aren’t very plentiful but, obviously, they pop up every now and then in Glenn County. So keep an eye on your toes! Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
The Glenn County Observer 