In the February 2025, episode of NPMA BugBytes, the team covered Joro spider heartrates, rancid fats as pest repellents, and pheromone control of Indian meal moths.

Invasive species like the Brown Widow spider, originating from Africa, are expanding globally, competing with local species. Their success is attributed to high reproductive potential and the presence of endosymbionts, such as Wolbachia and Rhabdochlamydia, which may influence their adaptability. Understanding these factors aids in managing invasive populations effectively.

Listen to the new BugBytes episode, "Cyborg Cockroaches, Winter Survival Strategies, and Ant Bait Abandonment with Special Guest Jen McCauley."

NPMA released a new BugBytes podcast episode with Dauphin Ewart of "The Bug Master," in Austin, Texas.

The management of widow spiders is much like the management of any other pest spider, but extra care should be taken regarding medically relevant species such as widows.