New York City is bracing for an unusual and alarming potential invasion: giant, venomous flying spiders known as Joro spiders. Having already made their presence felt in several southern U.S. states, experts warn that these airborne arachnids might swarm into the Big Apple this summer.
Joro Spiders: What You Need to Know
Joro spiders (Trichonephila clavata), native to Asia, are recognizable by their bright yellow and black markings. Female spiders can grow up to eight inches long, while males are about half that size. Their unique ability to glide through the air using silk threads has earned them the nickname “flying spiders.”
How Did They Arrive in the U.S.?
Originating from Japan, China, Taiwan, and South Korea, Joro spiders likely arrived in the U.S. via cargo shipments around 2010. They have since adapted to various environments, spreading across the Southeast. Reports from the nonprofit group INaturalist indicate their presence in states like Maryland, West Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Oklahoma. Researchers predict their potential spread to the Great Lakes region, Canada, and possibly the Northwest U.S. and Mexico.
Why New York?
Andy Davis, a researcher at the University of Georgia, explains that New York’s latitude closely matches that of East Asian regions where Joro spiders thrive, making the city an ideal habitat. The spiders have shown adaptability to urban environments, and their high metabolism and heart rate enable them to survive in colder climates.
Are Joro Spiders Dangerous?
Despite their intimidating appearance, Joro spiders pose no harm to humans or pets. Their venom is only effective on insects caught in their webs, and their bites are comparable to bee stings. However, scientists are still studying their potential impact on local ecosystems and agriculture.
As New Yorkers await the possible arrival of these spiders, experts emphasize that while they may be unsettling, they are not a direct threat to human safety.