Another signal that fall is near, is when you start to see all the Joro spider webs on your property. From tree limbs to shrubs, these spiders will continue to grow, until they turn into actual nightmare fuel in October.
Joro spiders (scientific name Trichonephila clavata) are an invasive species that has gained attention in Georgia, particularly in recent years. Native to East Asia, these large, colorful spiders were first identified in Georgia around 2013. Since then, they’ve spread rapidly across the state and into other parts of the southeastern United States.
Characteristics:
- Appearance: Joro spiders are known for their striking appearance. The females, which are much larger than the males, have bright yellow, blue, and red markings on their bodies, with legs that can span up to 3 inches. Males are much smaller and less colorful, often brown or gray.
- Webs: These spiders weave large, three-dimensional webs that can span several feet. The silk is golden in color and very strong, often found between trees, bushes, or man-made structures.
Behavior:
- Diet: Joro spiders are generalist predators, feeding on a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, flies, and even small butterflies. Their presence can potentially impact local ecosystems by altering the balance of native species.
- Reproduction: The spiders have a fast reproductive cycle, with females laying egg sacs that can contain hundreds of eggs. These egg sacs are typically laid in the fall, with the spiders hatching in the spring.
Impact in Georgia:
- Ecological Concerns: There is ongoing research to understand the full ecological impact of Joro spiders in Georgia. While they may help control pest populations, there is concern about their competition with native spiders and other predators.
- Human Interaction: Joro spiders are not harmful to humans. Their bites are not medically significant, and they are generally not aggressive. However, their large size and prolific webs can be startling, leading to concerns among residents.
- Spread: Joro spiders have shown a remarkable ability to spread quickly, likely aided by human activity such as the movement of vehicles and goods. Their presence has been recorded in multiple states beyond Georgia.
Management:
- Control Efforts: Currently, there is no widespread effort to control the Joro spider population, as their long-term impact is still being studied. Residents are encouraged to remove webs from around their homes if they find them troublesome, but there is no urgent need for eradication. The University of Georgia has a great article on managing Joro Spiders in the Landscape for review.
Overall, Joro spiders are a fascinating but complex addition to Georgia’s ecosystem. Their impact continues to be monitored as they adapt to their new environment.