In the South, a colorful and distinctive spider has been making its presence known: the Joro spider. Native to Asia, the Joro spider has established itself in parts of the southern United States, including Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. While these spiders are fascinating in their own right, their increasing numbers have led to concerns among residents. Let’s explore just what Joro spiders do, how to manage them if they appear around your home, and when it’s appropriate to call in professional pest control services.
What Are Joro Spiders?
The Joro spider, also known as the Joro golden orb-weaver, is a striking arachnid known for its vibrant coloration and distinctive web-building skills. Adult females, which are larger and more conspicuous than males, measure about 1 to 1.5 inches in body length, with their legs extending up to 4 inches. Joro spiders are distinct due to their bright yellow or orange abdomen adorned with dark stripes or bands. The Joro spider is a member of the orb-weaver family and is known for its intricate, golden-hued, circular webs.
Habitat and Behavior
Joro spiders prefer wooded and residential areas, often building their intricate webs between trees, shrubs, or structures like porches and eaves. These webs are strong and sticky, designed to catch flying insects like flies, bees, and wasps. The spiders are most active during the late summer and fall months, which is when they are most commonly encountered by residents.
While the presence of Joro spiders can be disconcerting to some homeowners, it’s important to note that they are generally harmless to humans. They are not aggressive and are unlikely to bite unless provoked or threatened. Their primary focus is on catching prey and reproducing.
Managing Joro Spiders Around Your Home
If you find Joro spiders around your home and want to manage their presence, here are some steps you can take:
- Web Removal: The most effective method for dealing with Joro spiders is to regularly remove their webs. Use a broom or a long stick to gently sweep away the web and its occupants. Be careful not to damage the spider, as they are beneficial in controlling other insect populations.
- Reduce Attractants: Joro spiders are drawn to well-lit areas and locations with abundant prey. Reducing outdoor lighting and addressing other factors that attract insects, like overgrown vegetation or open trash cans, can help deter these spiders from settling near your home.
- Physical Barriers: Seal any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior to prevent spiders from entering. Make sure windows and doors are properly screened to keep them out.
- Natural Predators: Encourage natural predators like birds and other beneficial insects that may help control the spider population.
When to Call Pest Force
While Joro spiders are generally harmless and contribute to natural pest control, some situations may warrant professional pest control intervention:
- Infestation: If you have a severe infestation of Joro spiders that poses a nuisance or health concern, it may be necessary to call a pest control expert for a thorough assessment and targeted treatment.
- Allergic Reactions: Although Joro spider bites are rare, some individuals may be allergic to their venom, leading to severe allergic reactions. If anyone in your household experiences a spider bite and shows signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
- Unmanageable Situation: If the spider population is overwhelming, making it difficult to enjoy your outdoor space or maintain the cleanliness and safety of your home, pest control professionals can help implement effective control measures.
Joro spiders are a unique addition to the wildlife in Georgia, and while their presence may be unsettling for some folks, they are generally harmless and play a role in natural pest control. By following the suggested steps for managing their presence around your home, you can coexist with these spiders peacefully. However, if their numbers become unmanageable or if there are health concerns, feel free to reach out to our pest control experts for help. Pest Force serves Georgians from Athens to Atlanta. Call or visit us online and get protected today.
FAQs About Joro Spiders
Where are joro spiders most common?
Joro spiders prefer wooded and residential areas, often building their intricate webs between trees, shrubs, or structures like porches and eaves. These webs are strong and sticky, designed to catch flying insects like flies, bees, and wasps.
What time of year is popular for joro spiders?
The spiders are most active during the late summer and fall months, which is when they are most commonly encountered by residents.
Are joro spiders harmful?
While the presence of Joro spiders can be disconcerting to some homeowners, it’s important to note that they are generally harmless to humans. They are not aggressive and are unlikely to bite unless provoked or threatened. Their primary focus is on catching prey and reproducing.
