Invasive Flying Spiders Spotted in Tennessee – Should Hoosiers Be Concerned?

The news of Jorō spiders, often dubbed "flying spiders," spotted in Tennessee may have Southern Indiana residents concerned about their arrival. But how worried should Hoosiers be about these ballooning arachnids? Let’s break it down.

Adult Female Jorō Spider

What Are Jorō Spiders?

Originally from East Asia, Jorō spiders were accidentally introduced to North America in 2014. First discovered in Georgia, they have since spread across parts of Alabama, the Carolinas, and most recently, Tennessee. This rapid spread has raised questions about whether Indiana is next on their map.

Are Jorō Spiders Invasive?

Yes, Jorō spiders are considered invasive because they are not native to North America and have the potential to cause environmental shifts. However, there is no evidence that they pose a danger to humans, pets, or local ecosystems—yet. Researchers are still studying the long-term effects, but so far, these spiders haven’t been shown to harm Hoosiers’ health or wallets.

Do Jorō Spiders Bite?

The good news is that Jorō spiders are generally non-aggressive. Experts who have handled hundreds of them report no bites. Unless provoked, these timid spiders prefer to mind their own business, so the chances of an unprovoked bite are very low.

Can Jorō Spiders Really Fly?

Not exactly. While they can’t fly like birds or insects, Jorō spiders use a technique called "ballooning." They release silk threads into the air and catch the wind to glide over long distances. Spiderlings can travel tens to hundreds of miles, sometimes catching a ride on a storm blowing in just the right direction.

Should Hoosiers Be Worried?

As of now, there’s no need to panic. Jorō spiders have only been spotted as far north as Tennessee, but their ballooning abilities mean they could eventually make their way to Southern Indiana. That said, they don’t seem to pose any significant threats, so if these adventurous spiders do show up, they may be more of a curiosity than a cause for concern.

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Source: [Penn State Extention]

Source: [Joro Watch]