Those Big, Scary Spiders in Your New Jersey Backyard: What's the Deal?
You're chilling on your porch, enjoying the summer breeze, when BAM, you see it. A ginormous spider, chilling on your porch railing, its eight hairy legs giving you the creeps. You're in New Jersey, so you know it's gotta be something big and scary. So what's the deal with all these monster spiders around your house?
Giant Spiders Are a New Jersey Thing
It's true, New Jersey has its fair share of creepy crawlies, and big spiders are definitely part of the club. The most likely culprit you're seeing is a Joro spider, an invasive species that's taken up residence in the state. These guys have a bright yellow body with black stripes, and can get to be the size of your hand, including their legs.
Joro Spiders: Not as Scary as They Look
Don't worry, though, Joro spiders aren't inherently dangerous to humans. They're actually pretty shy and don't like to be bothered. Their bite can be painful, but it's not venomous, so it's not going to kill you. They are, however, pretty good at catching mosquitos and other bugs, so they're actually kind of a benefit!
Other Big Spiders to Watch Out For
While Joro spiders are the most common giant spider you'll see in New Jersey, they're not the only ones. You might also see garden spiders, with their large webs, or wolf spiders, which are large and furry but don't build webs. Just remember, even though these spiders are big, they're not necessarily out to get you. They're just trying to survive like any other creature.
Tips for Avoiding Unwanted Spider Encounters
If you really don't want to share your backyard with these big spiders, there are a few things you can do:
- Clean up clutter: Spiders love hiding places, so make sure your yard is clear of debris.
- Seal up cracks: Check your house foundation for any cracks or gaps that spiders can use to get inside.
- Use natural repellents: Peppermint oil and citrus are known to deter spiders.
Don't Panic!
So next time you see a big, scary spider in your yard, don't freak out. Remember, they're just trying to make a living too. If you're really uncomfortable with them being around, there are ways to keep them away. But otherwise, try to appreciate the fact that these creepy crawlies play an important role in our ecosystem.