Sonoran Desert Centipede

sonoran desert centipede next animal
Sonoran Desert Centipede

Scolopendra heros castaneiceps
This amazing arthropod hides during the hot day and emerges at night to hunt. It is quick and agile. Its fore legs are stout, powerfully muscled and have claws modified for injecting venom. These help subdue prey or defend against larger predators. Though ‘centipede’ means 100 legs, it actually has only about 40 legs.
Fact file:

Lifespan: 5 yrs

Ecological Role: Predator

Habitat: Desert and arid scrubland

Prey: Insects and tiny rodents

Current Range: Southwest United States