Giant venomous spiders parachuted into northeastern United States [VIDEO]

The Northeast region of the United States has been dealing with its fair share of natural phenomena lately, from spotted lanternfly to cicadas. Now, residents must prepare for another unexpected invasion: giant venomous spiders with 4-inch-long legs that can “parachute” through the air, according to CBS News.

New Jersey Pest Control recently issued a warning about the imminent arrival of these spiders. Known as Joro spiders, they are hard to miss because of their vibrant yellow and gray bodies, and females can have a leg span of up to 4 inches. What really sets them apart, however, is their ability to “fly,” a rare trait among spiders. Using a technique called ballooning, Joro spiders release threads of silk into the air, allowing the wind to carry them.

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Although these spiders have not yet reached New York and New Jersey, experts are confident that it is only a matter of time. José R. Ramírez-Garofalo, an ecologist at Rutgers University's Lockwood Lab and president of Protectors of Pine Oak Woods in Staten Island, emphasized the inevitable arrival in the region.

In a peer-reviewed study published in October, invasive species expert David Coyle indicated that Joro spiders are “here to stay.” Originally from Asia, they were introduced to North Georgia around 2010, and since then their spread has continued. Although experts have been warning about its possible arrival in New York since 2022, no sightings have been confirmed yet.

Coyle explained that these spiders likely inhabit most of the eastern United States, matching well with their comfort zone in their native range. Consequently, people who are uncomfortable with creepy crawlies may find this invasion particularly uncomfortable.

Reports from across the eastern United States have documented Joro spiders in states including Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Ohio. According to Andy Davis, a researcher at the University of Georgia, New York is right in the middle of their preferred habitat. Davis suggests that these spiders could start popping up around New York and neighboring states as the summer progresses.

Surprisingly, these arachnids have shown adaptability to urban environments. Davis observed Joro spiders on lampposts and telephone poles, places where “normal spiders wouldn't be caught dead.”

Although Joro spiders are venomous, Coyle says they pose no direct danger to humans. The venom is mainly used to subdue its prey, which include butterflies, wasps and cockroaches. However, they could potentially threaten native spider populations.

“There is no evidence that they have caused harm to humans or pets,” Coyle stressed.

As the Northeast prepares for the arrival of these giant venomous spiders, residents can rest assured that they pose a minimal risk to their safety. However, precautions may be necessary to protect the local ecosystem and ensure that the balance of native species remains intact.

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