Intruding flora and fauna - Huge aerial spider makes its way across the United States.
This yellow-colored female's body naturally comes from Eastern Asia. But now, the Joro spider has been thriving in the southwestern US for over ten years. Scientists think other eastern states could be the spider's home too.
These critters aren't picky! They can survive in bustling urban areas. Researchers at the University of Georgia discovered they are quite comfortable in highly-populated ecosystems and close to streets loosely referred to as "heavily trafficked." New York City may be next on their list. As early as January this year, New Jersey Pest Control reported seeing signs of this spider in their state.
Joro Spider Settling in the East Coast USA
The Joro spider's rapid expansion across the USA can be attributed to a unique quality of their young. They can actually fly. No, not with wings; they use their webs as a makeshift balloon! Wind and Earth's electromagnetism propel these young spiders over 100 kilometers. Adult spiders can't fly, though.
Don't be scared of these creatures. Even though they can grow up to 15cm, they're not much of a threat to humans. Their bite feels like a bee sting and may cause an allergic reaction.
The sight of these giant spiders doesn't appeal to everyone. "Anyone who doesn't like spiders will definitely be uneasy around this species," says Professor David Coyle from Clemson University, an expert on invasive species, in an interview with "CBS." Coyle predicts the Joro spiders will establish themselves on the entire east coast of the USA within a few years. However, he doesn't expect them to invade homes, but rather weave their webs on buildings or other structures. Coyle also notes that native spiders will struggle to coexist with these invaders, as his research found they displace and kill other spiders in their webs.
Sources: CBS, Washington Post, NJ Pest Control, Clemson University
