Many people have been interested in the interesting Joro spider, which is said to be native to Japan and may eventually make its way to the US East Coast. Concerns regarding whether these spiders will spread to New England naturally emerge, given that sightings have previously been reported in New York and New Jersey.
According to experts like Jose R. Ramirez-Garofalo of Rutgers University’s Lockwood Lab, these spiders are soon to migrate into neighboring states. Still, the crucial question is still open: will they go to New England next?
There are no known reports of Joro spider sightings in Rhode Island or any other part of New England, according to University of Rhode Island professor Laura A. Meyerson. Even though their range is growing, there are still questions about whether they can thrive in the area given their tolerance for lower temperatures.
It’s thought that overseas travel and cargo shipments are what unintentionally brought Joro spiders to the United States. Their quick reproduction and adaptability to a variety of situations have helped them establish themselves and spread across the nation.
Joro spiders are distinguished by their noticeable yellow bands and big size. Although they can cause allergic reactions when they bite, humans are not thought to be directly threatened by these spiders’ venom. Even though wind currents can carry them, mostly in the form of silk threads used by spiderlings to balloon, it is rare to come across hand-sized spiders dropping from the sky.
Meyerson advises reducing outdoor lighting at night to deter Joro spiders, as they are drawn to light sources, even though there are no guarantees against their presence. It’s also crucial to remember that these spiders are usually located outside as opposed to indoors.
It’s critical to keep a careful eye on the movements of joro spiders and take preventative action to address any potential negative effects on the environment and human population as they continue their trek along the East Coast.