Large Invasive Spiders Are Spreading Up the East Coast: Are They Dangerous?

Large invasive spiders originally from East Asia are making their way up the U.S. East Coast, some officials have warned, although it’s disputed whether they are dangerous. Joro spiders were first spotted in Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, North Carolina, and other Southern U.S. states, starting in the early 2010s. But researchers have predicted they will head north because they prefer colder temperatures. The spiders have a bright color, with females being yellow and black, while male Joro spiders are smaller and brownish. Some reports and studies have suggested that, with their legs included, they can get up to 4 inches in size....