The Joro spider, an invasive orb-weaver from East Asia, has surged in Upstate South Carolina since first recorded in the state in 2018. Females feature yellow leg markings and pink abdominal patterns, and their webs often appear golden. While harmless to people and pets and useful for eating mosquitoes and cockroaches, Joro spiders threaten pollinators and native orb-weavers, contributing to ecosystem imbalance. Experts recommend nonchemical controls first—physical removal, natural repellents, and consulting professionals before using pesticides.
Invasive Joro Spiders Surge in Upstate South Carolina — What Residents Need to Know
The Joro spider, an invasive orb-weaver from East Asia, has surged in Upstate South Carolina since first recorded in the state in 2018. Females feature yellow leg markings and pink abdominal patterns, and their webs often appear golden. While harmless to people and pets and useful for eating mosquitoes and cockroaches, Joro spiders threaten pollinators and native orb-weavers, contributing to ecosystem imbalance. Experts recommend nonchemical controls first—physical removal, natural repellents, and consulting professionals before using pesticides.
12:48 PM, 11/15/2025Environment
Experts warn of a growing Joro spider infestation in Upstate South Carolina
Residents across the northwest corner of South Carolina are seeing dramatic increases in Joro spider populations, an invasive orb-weaver native to East Asia. First detected in the southeastern United States roughly 15 years ago and recorded in South Carolina in 2018, the species has multiplied rapidly in some communities.
How to identify Joro spiders
- Females: Distinctive yellow markings on the legs and pinkish patterns on the abdomen.
- Males: Smaller, brown, and often seen near or within a female's web.
- Webs: Silk often appears golden in color, which can help distinguish Joro webs from those of local species.
"We're seeing loss of the native orb weavers, the big ones that make those big webs, your garden spiders," Dr. David Coyle of Clemson University told WYFF.
Although Joro spiders are not dangerous to people or household pets, entomologists and conservationists are concerned about ecological impacts. Joros prey on mosquitoes and cockroaches, which can be beneficial, but they also consume pollinators and outcompete native orb-weavers. Local researchers report declines in native spider populations, which can reduce natural pest control and alter food webs and nutrient cycling.
What residents can do
If you encounter Joro spiders near your home, experts recommend starting with nonchemical approaches:
- Physically remove visible spiders and webs using a broom or stick, or gently relocate them if you prefer not to kill them.
- Try mild, environmentally friendly repellents such as household vinegar sprays, citrus solutions, or planting repellent species like lavender or mint.
- Avoid broad-spectrum pesticides when possible; these can harm pollinators, pets, and beneficial garden insects.
- If infestations are severe or persistent, consult a licensed pest-control professional who can recommend targeted, least-harmful treatments.
Public awareness, early detection, and thoughtful management can help limit ecological damage. Communities monitoring Joro populations should balance control measures with conservation of native species and pollinators.
Local perspective: Some residents describe surprise encounters at doorways and yards. "Once I came in, and it was like, right there in my face... I don't know where they're coming from and why they're invading us like this, but I just want them gone," said Greenville resident Nekitah Hunt.