Joro spiders, an invasive species native to East Asian countries, have been spotted in New England, specifically in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. The spiders, known for their vibrant colors and venomous bite, have been rapidly spreading north in the United States since first being reported in Georgia almost a decade ago. These spiders, which can grow up to 4 inches in length, are part of a group of large spiders called golden orb-web weavers and are known for their ability to “balloon” or travel through the air using their webs.
The recent sighting of a Joro spider in Boston has raised concerns about the potential spread of this species to new areas. Joro spiders have been reported in several states in the southern and eastern United States, with researchers at Clemson University predicting that they could soon inhabit most of the eastern U.S. Despite their venomous bite, these spiders are not aggressive unless threatened and are mainly found outside where they can build large webs up to 10 feet wide.
Efforts are being made to monitor the spread of Joro spiders through programs like Joro Watch, developed by the University of Georgia’s Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health. The presence of these spiders in new regions highlights the importance of tracking and controlling invasive species to protect local ecosystems and prevent potential harm to humans.
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