An invasive spider species from Asia has already made its home in the southeastern portion of the United States. But now, it’s predicted that they may make their way up to the Bay State. Whether you like it or not, there may be an invasive spider species in Massachusetts called the Joro spider. Let’s take a closer look at these fascinating arachnids.

The Joro spider is an invasive arachnid species that originated in Asia. It's most prevalent in Taiwan, China, Korea, and Japan.
primato14 / Imazins via Getty Images
They were first discovered in the southeastern region of the United States back in 2014, but now it seems like they are making some moves up north. You may start to see them in Massachusetts at some point in the near future.
Koo Bearhill/Flickr
The female Joro spider, or Trichonephila clavata, is about the size of an adult human's palm. It also has a striking yellow color, so between the size and color, it's quite noticeable! The male Joro spiders are much smaller.
David Hansche/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images

Related Stories

There's Nothing More Baffling Than The Origin Of The Province Lands Dunes In Massachusetts

There's Nothing More Baffling Than The Origin Of The Province Lands Dunes In Massachusetts

 7 Natural Wonders Unique To The Bay State That Should Be On Everyone's Massachusetts Bucket List

7 Natural Wonders Unique To The Bay State That Should Be On Everyone's Massachusetts Bucket List

 You Can See The Connecticut River Valley At This One Secluded Massachusetts State Park

You Can See The Connecticut River Valley At This One Secluded Massachusetts State Park
The good news about these spiders is that they are completely harmless! So, if you happen to see one, rest assured they won't bite you.
Daniel Ramirez/Flickr
While they are venomous, the Joro spider's fangs are much too small to bite through human skin. And while they are large, their coloring makes them somewhat beautiful.
Jon Cox/Flickr
So what does a Joro spider eat? Well, you may be surprised to find out that they eat only other bugs including other spiders, flies, mosquitoes, and cicadas. On the flip side, some birds and animals may eat Joro spiders, although they do not seem to have a specific predator.
Neil Dalphin/Flickr

 

Will you be on the lookout for this invasive spider species in Massachusetts? Let us know if you’ve ever seen one!

If you enjoy the great outdoors, take one of these bucket-list hikes in Massachusetts.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Massachusetts