They are not as scary as the flying monkeys from “The Wizard of Oz,” but they are close.
Giant, venomous flying spiders are expected to invade the U.S. this summer.
The Joro spider is expected to invade across the Eastern U.S., per Newsweek. This is raising concerns about its potential impact on both ecosystems and residents.
The spider is originally from East Asia and was first noted in the U.S. in Georgia around 2010.
The Joro spider may reach as far north as New Jersey, according a statement from N.J. Pest Control.
They have vivid yellow and black colors and their 4-inch leg span. They fly through the air by using a ballooning method. This enabled their rapid spread across the Southeastern states.
Although they are venomous, the spider’s venom is not deadly to humans. However, their size and appearance will not be welcome.
The spiders’ fangs are usually can’t penetrate human skin. Bites, however, can cause discomfort and allergic reactions in some.
“These are not just benign spiders coming to catch and kill bad things; these are pushing out native species and catching and killing whatever happens to get in their webs,” said David Coyle, an assistant professor in the Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation at Clemson University.
