The Joro Spider
Discover the Joro Spider, a captivating spider species that arrived in northeast Georgia. Learn about its origins, behavior, and its presence in America.
Or, if you want to be fancy, the Jorō Spider. That’s Trichonephila clavata for those of you who are more scientifically inclined. If you’ve seen one, you know.
While the Joro spider arrived several years ago, it was the slow, then exponentially spread across northeastern Georgia in 2021 which put them into global consciousness. Georgia residents saw them around their yards, in churchyards, and outside their favorite pubs. Articles were written in the popular press, showing the world the spider’s magnificence.
Is a picture worth a thousand words? If a description is something like, “a large colorful spider,” and then you see a photo of a spider equal to a man’s hand, I say no. There’s a chance you are speechless.
We love them. We think they are beautiful. Look carefully and see their intricate design. Join us as we explore this gorgeous newcomer to the American South (and soon, the East).
There are a few myths about the spider that causes some folks to panic. It’s just a big spider that happens to be colorful. Don’t hate it because it’s beautiful. Some of the myths are pervasive: Do you know the one about the hummingbird?
What should you do if you see a Joro spider?
Spiders of North America (Princeton Field Guides, 154)
We’re in the News!
- Wall Street Journal
- Associates Press
- Georgia Man Celebrates Jorō Spider The Jorō spider’s beauty is intoxicating like a great painting
MERCH: See our Joro gift shop. Brand new book “The Joro Spider Journal: The Blue Book” See our newest mug.
ON SALE: Search field guide for spiders on Amazon.
ON KINDLE: The First Time You Die read a story in a cemetery (no spiders, sorry).