BLACK WIDOW SPIDER
Black Widow Spiders are very common native residents across the Navajo Nation. They can be found in many habitats, but almost always in a small enclosed dark, cool space. They often occupy abandoned prairie dog burrows and small crevices in sandstone canyon walls. Unlike the Wolf Spider and Tarantula, this spider constructs an elaborate web and waits for prey to be captured. They feed upon many different types of insects. Only the female Black Widow Spider has a painful bite; they are said to be the most venomous spider in the U.S. Their bite is reportedly 15 times more toxic than the rattlesnake.
Spider is named "Na'ashjéiitsoh" in the Navajo language. All species of Spider should be respected, and not killed. Two Spiders are said to have originated with the Navajo creation story, and they taught the Navajo People how to weave rugs and gave them different artistic abilities.
SCORPION
Several species of Scorpions are native to the desertlands of the Navajo Nation. Scorpions are arachnids, which means that they are closely related to spiders, ticks and mites. Most scorpions on the Navajo Nation grow to 1-2 inches in length. The Navajo Zoo keeps the largest scorpions found in the U.S., the desert hairy scorpion, which can grow to 5 inches. Scorpions are nocturnal predators on insects, spiders, centipedes and other scorpions. Scorpions deliver venom from their sharp tail to catch predators and defend against predators.
Scorpion is named “Séigo” in the Navajo language. Scorpion and other invertebrates are said to have been created in the First World in Navajo tradition. Navajo People respect Scorpion because it can bite and do grave harm.
TARANTULA
One known species of Tarantula is native to the Navajo Nation. These large hairy spiders are typically found in mid-elevation pinon-juniper forests. They live alone, but tend to gather and move in large numbers in early autumn. It is suspected that these activities are done for mating and preparation for the upcoming winter. These large spiders will attack just about any potential prey item it thinks it can subdue, including insects, other spiders, mice and small lizards.
Tarantula is named “Naał’aashii” in the Navajo language. Tarantula and other invertebrates are said to have been created in the First World in Navajo tradition. They should be respected and not killed. It is said that Tarantula comes around autumn and starts walking to forecast the amount of upcoming winter snow and cold weather.