Vinegaroon

The vinegaroon, thelyphonida, is known as a whip scorpion because of their resemblance to scorpions and the shape of their whip-like tail and are arachnids.  Vinegaroons range in size from 1-3 inches.  When threatened, they spray an acidic combination that smells much like vinegar.  They are carnivorous, nocturnal animals that feed on millipedes and scorpions.  Vinegaroons are harmless to humans but will defend themselves when threatened.  Some people have been known to keep vinegaroons as pets.

Cathy Harlin tells the story of when they first moved to Lea County.  She found a huge black vinegaroon in the garage.  It charged across the floor with its pinchers up and tail over is back.  She thought it was a scorpion and ran into the house.  Later, she looked it up and found it to be harmless, but apparently no one told the little critter!