Recently, there have been reports of giant, flying Joro spiders making their way northward across the East Coast. These large arachnids are known for their unique ability to glide through the air using silk threads, which allows them to cover great distances in search of new habitats. This migration pattern is causing concern among scientists and residents alike, as these spiders have the potential to disrupt local ecosystems and pose a threat to human populations.
The presence of these Joro spiders raises important questions about the impact of climate change on species distribution. As temperatures rise and habitats shift, we may see more instances of invasive species moving into new territories. This phenomenon highlights the need for increased research and monitoring efforts to better understand and mitigate the effects of climate change on biodiversity.
The large and vividly colored Joro spider, with its 4-inch-long legs enabling it to glide through the air, might reach as far north as New Jersey this summer, New Jersey Pest Control warned earlier this year.
"As the Joro spider invasion continues its northward trajectory, the possibility of their arrival in New Jersey later this year has heightened concerns among residents and authorities alike," the company said. "The potential for these spiders to establish populations in new regions raises questions about how local ecosystems will respond and adapt to their presence."
These are spiders used to tropical and semi-tropical weather, but as the climate gets warmer, they are making the trek north along with other insect species.
“Expect some Southern species like many other species of insects that basically evolved in more southern latitudes to simply move further north because our winters are more mild now, and perhaps down the road they’ll be able to survive in climates such as Maryland’s,” Raupp said.
The bottom line: the colorful spider is nothing to fear and should be admired, Raupp said.
Ridge says if they do make it to CT, the earliest sightings would be in 2029.
She worries people may confuse them with the similar-looking yellow garden spider already here in the state.
“They’re pretty similar, similar enough to not to tell them apart at first glance,” said Sherman.
Barbara Repetsky, a gardener, has no issue telling the two apart.
“This spider is going to be able to inhabit most of the eastern U.S.,” David Coyle, invasive species expert at the University of Clemson, said in October 2023. “It shows that their comfort area in their native range matches up very well with much of North America... Barring some unforeseen circumstance, we expect the range of these things to continue expanding, likely to the north, and we’ve already seen that with some populations in Maryland."
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