Venomous Spiders Spread to Moscow Due to Climate Change
Reports indicate that climate change is enabling venomous spiders, including tarantulas and wasp spiders, to spread northward into Moscow and the Moscow region, with at least 14 people already bitten in southern Russia. While wasp spider bites are not dangerous to humans, they can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Consensus
- Climate change is causing venomous spiders to move northward into Moscow and the Moscow region.
- Spiders previously found in southern Russia are now being observed in the Moscow region.
- At least 14 people have been bitten by venomous spiders in southern Russia.
- Wasp spiders (Argiope brunnicula) are being seen more frequently in the Moscow region.
- The bite of wasp spiders can cause irritation or allergic reaction but is not dangerous to humans.
- Wasp spiders typically sting only when handled or squeezed, as a defensive reaction.
Points of divergence
- The venom of tarantulas (kaракurt) causes severe intoxication, convulsions, and can seriously affect the heart. — tg_moscowmap
- Wasp spiders are not dangerous to humans and their bite feels like a wasp or bee sting. — riamo
Coverage (2 sources)
- Venomous black widows may reach Moscow Due to climate warming, spiders have already bitten at least 14 people in southern Russia, may appear in Moscow and the Moscow region. Their venom causes severe intoxication, convulsions and may seriously affect the heart... — Новости Москвы
- Large wasp spiders have arrived in the Moscow region — РИАМО