What type of spider is this?

[quadman]

I was recently hiking the Clear Creek Trail in the Grand Canyon and I came across a different looking spider. Does anyone know what type of spider this is? Thanks.

[big_load]

It looks to me like the yellow version of the Velvet Ant.

[kingsnake]

The clear answer to that question is always "A scarey one".

[chumley]

Apparently velvet ants come in all the same colors as M&Ms.

I like the blue ones!

http://www.healcure.org/ants/velvet-ant ... n-habitat/

[big_load]

@chumley
Whoa, I've never seen a blue one. They look like police ants.

[Cheerycow]

Yo Quadman,
I don't recall seeing one of these when I was there two different times. But I sure loved my experiences at Clear Creek. What did you think of the place? Did you hike up canyon? Down canyon to the river? (Sorry to wander off topic...)

[quadman]

@Cheerycow
We hike down the Bright Angel Trail to Phantom Ranch, where we stayed in the dorm's for 2 nights. This was the second time on the Clear Creek trail. Both times I saw the great views of the Colorado River, both bridges, and a rafting trip from the Clear creek trail. This time I went out about 6 miles on the trail and came back...that Tonto plateau is just boring at times and warm. I was thinking about hiking up to Utah flats the day before but...maybe next time. The next day just hiked back out the Bright Angel Trail...good relaxing time.

[Cheerycow]

Thanks, Quad! That is a good summary of the first half of the trail to Clear Creek. Despite the amazing views it does become rather tedious the farther one ventures towards Clear Creek. The endless cycle of drop-into-the-draws-and-climb-back-out wear on the body and the mind. But the reward is getting to Clear Creek and spending a few days there!

Pathetic attempt to stay on topic: I have enjoyed lighting up spider eyes with my flashlight in my back yard this summer. I just love seeing all those sets of glowing green eyes!