Spiders and Their Cousins

Central America has more than its fair share of spiders, especially in jungle regions. Many of them are of enormous size, and of more elaborate colors than a Mayan blanket. While some and indeed poisonous, the majority tend to mind their own business.

Although tarantulas are the largest and most intimidating-looking spiders in the world, they only strike if annoyed or threatened, and their bites are only harmful if you happen to be allergic. However, an encounter with a tarantula’s hair can result in itching, burning, and pain. So even if they don’t scare you, be sure not to pet them!

Bad news: for every person killed by a poisonous spider bite, ten are allegedly killed by scorpion stings. Not all scorpions are dangerous, but obviously it’s better to be safe than sorry. While snakes are a daytime affliction, sun-sensitive scorpions hunt mostly by night. Never walk around barefoot in the dark, and it doesn’t hurt to shake out your shoes before you put them on.

SSSnakes!

About Central America's scaly and slithery.

Mosquitoes: The Smallest Vampires

Stinging, slapping, and scratching in Central America.

Other Insects

From kissing bugs to biting flies.