Banana Spiders in Georgia: What You Need to Know

As summer slides into fall in Georgia, residents often spot large, bright yellow-and-black spiders dangling in gardens, yards, and wooded areas. Commonly called “banana spiders,” these eye-catching arachnids aren’t just creepy crawlers—they’re nature’s pest-control experts. With trending searches like banana spider Georgia 2025 and big yellow spiders, it’s no wonder everyone’s noticing these local orb-weavers.

“Banana Spiders”

The Golden Silk Orb-Weaver (Trichonephila clavipes)

Appearance and Habitat

These show-stopping spiders have long yellow-orange abdomens and banded legs, while males are tiny sidekicks. Their signature golden webs glisten in sunlight and can stretch several feet wide across gardens, trails, and sunny spaces.

Are They a Concern?

Golden Silk Orb-Weavers are docile and bites are rare, usually causing only minor irritation—think bee-sting mild. Their webs trap countless insects, including pesky mosquitoes, making them your backyard’s natural bug zappers.

The Joro Spider (Trichonephila clavata)

Appearance and Habitat

A new Georgia resident from East Asia, Joro females flaunt bold yellow-and-black stripes with red markings on their underside. Their huge, multi-layered webs appear in trees, power lines, and open areas, making them hard to miss in the fall.

Are They a Concern?

Despite their size and “alien” looks, Joros are harmless. Their fangs are too small to bite humans or pets, and they’re generally shy—perfect for spider-watchers rather than spider-fighters.

The Yellow Garden Spider (Argiope aurantia)

Appearance and Habitat

Females boast striking black-and-yellow abdomens with signature zigzag web patterns (stabilimentum). They spin classic wheel-shaped webs in gardens, fields, and roadsides, low enough to catch buzzing insects.

Are They a Concern?

Non-aggressive and rarely biting, these spiders are excellent garden allies, keeping plant-damaging insects under control.

So next time you spot a banana spider in Georgia, don’t scream—snap a photo instead! These big yellow spiders are doing the heavy lifting, keeping insects in check while giving the Georgia fall landscape a little extra flair. If you’re having issues with spiders or other household pests, contact a pest control expert for a free quote!