Why have poisonous spiders started to enter cities more frequently?
In the Dnipropetrovsk region, tarantulas have begun to emerge from their burrows. Scientists note that this year, this has happened significantly earlier than usual.
This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing “Our City”.
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Why have spiders appeared earlier
Biologist Svitlana Kiyak noted that the first spider was recorded as early as March 12, which is atypical for the region. According to experts, the activity of tarantulas has shifted due to climate change.
If they used to wake up in June-July, now this happens significantly earlier – sometimes even in spring. The reason is mild winters and prolonged summers, which promote the survival and reproduction of spiders.
The Center for Public Health of Ukraine notes that this is not an isolated case, but rather part of a general trend.
A tarantula emerged from its burrow in Dnipro (photo: Svitlana Kiyak)
Where can they be found
Due to the plowing of virgin lands and changes in the environment, tarantulas are increasingly migrating closer to humans. They can now be seen in steppes and ravines, in gardens and household plots, and in cities – on playgrounds, stadiums, and in parks.
Spiders live in burrows up to 60 cm deep and hunt at night. These spiders do not spin webs.
In addition to tarantulas, the number of other dangerous species, such as scolopendra and black widows, is also increasing in the region. Previously, they were primarily characteristic of southern regions, but are now spreading north to Cherkasy and Poltava regions.
Are tarantulas dangerous
Despite their fearsome appearance, the southern Russian tarantula is not deadly to humans.
Its bite is painful, causing redness and swelling, and sometimes a brief fever or allergic reaction. It feels similar to a bee sting.
More dangerous is the black widow, which is also found in Dnipropetrovsk, especially in the southern part of the region. Its venom has neurotoxic effects and is significantly stronger than that of the tarantula.
To protect yourself, experts advise:
- not to touch spiders and not to provoke them,
- to check shoes and items that have not been used for a long time,
- to be cautious in sheds, under stones, and in burrows.
In case of a bite, it is necessary to treat the wound and consult a doctor.
Recall that in the summer of 2025, due to the heat, dangerous animals – snakes, spiders, wasps, hornets, and ticks – became more active in Ukraine, encounters with which can pose a threat to humans. We explained where to find them, the dangers of bites, and how to protect yourself while outdoors.
RBC-Ukraine also reported that in summer, the number of visits to doctors due to insect bites increases, which can cause both mild reactions and dangerous complications.
