Large, Invasive Spider Migrating to Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — They are big, creepy, and on their way to charlotte. The invasive joro spider is working its way up the east coast and the next stop is our backyards.

The joro spider came from China to America about a decade ago. It has migrated through the southeast.

Andy Davis is a professor at the University of Georgia. He’s studied the joro spider’s durability, eating habits and migration.

“I’m guessing that later this fall you’ll see a lot more of them because because there are a couple of them have already made it to your area,” Davis said of when joro spiders will be in Charlotte.

The spiders can grow as long as 3-4 inches. The size can be intimidating, but looks can be deceiving.

“These spiders are not dangerous to people or dogs or pets, and they’re really quite shy. In fact, I’ve actually tested that,” continued Davis, “it turns out that the spiders are one of, if not the most shy species of spiders ever documented.”

Davis says the spider will only bite if cornered, and if it does, it’s unlikely to even break the skin.

It’s unclear the impact of the joro spider on the ecosystem. Davis said on one hand, it may out compete native spiders for food. On the other hand, the joro spiders will become a food source for native birds.