What kind of six legged insect looks like a bright red spider, and isn't a spider mite?

Question

I live in El Paso,Texas and this little creature ran across my carpet, I caught it under a glass to release it outside, so I got a close up look at it. It's entire top side was a bright orange/red and the underside was jet black. It also had a pair of 'furry' looking creme colored fangs (think tarantula). the thing is.. It only had six legs. So it can't be a spider. Right?

Answer 1

I agree with Paul.If it was a velvet ant,you are lucky that it didn't bite you,as they have very painful bites. I'm glad you didn't kill it,though,as they only bite if bothered.

http://lancaster.unl.edu/pest/resources/...

Answer 2

Learn to ID them, here -

http://bugguide.net/node/view/15740

http://greennature.com/article1899.html

http://www.einsteins-emporium.com/life/a...

http://www.whatsthatbug.com/

http://www.insectimages.org/

Answer 3

How about a velvet ant.

http://bugguide.net/node/view/170747

or you miss counted and its a jumping spider

http://bugguide.net/node/view/155946