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Joro spiders, an invasive species native to East Asia, have been spotted in southeastern Pennsylvania, marking their potential spread into other areas. The yellow and black spiders, first discovered in Georgia a decade ago, have rapidly expanded their range across the southeastern U.S. and are expected to move further north. While Joro spiders may look alarming due to their large size, they are relatively harmless to humans and pets, only biting if cornered and typically unable to pierce human skin.
The spiders use a technique called "ballooning" to travel through the air, which has helped them spread across the U.S. They eat a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, stink bugs, and even invasive pests like spotted lanternflies. However, their presence is causing concern because these spiders are pushing out local species.. Despite their growing numbers, experts, including University of Delaware's Dr. Doug Tallamy, suggests there's no immediate need for alarm.
Read the article at NBC10