Arachnophobes look out — a fast-spreading invasive species known as the Joro spider is once again making headlines, with recent reports indicating the large, brightly colored arachnids have now been spotted across at least 12 U.S. states.
The Joro spider, common in East Asia, and sometimes described as “parachuting” spiders because of its unique wind-borne travel method, has steadily expanded its range since first appearing in the country in the late early by just over a decade ago. These spiders are known for their striking appearance: females can grow to roughly the size of a human hand, or about 3 inches, with long legs and vivid yellow, blue, and red markings.
