In recent news (or maybe not so recent, given some previous sightings), the Northern Black Widow has appeared in Toronto parks. Given that Toronto thrives on panic and a lack or logic, people are instantly blaming the recent pesticide ban for the appearance of the spider.
It always astounds how quickly will assume causation because of correlation, but this is ridiculous. In fact, given that the number has not been seen to either decrease or increase as pesticide use changes, correlation cannot even be assumed; but, given the lack of rational thought that actually runs through the veins of urban societies, one cannot be surprised either by these connections made.
I wonder how many more surprises Torontonians will find in the coming years as temperatures and climates change, shifting biome and territory lines. The Southern Ontario environment will become a different home and therefore, will house different critters. It's important to keep in mind that without our ability to build micro-climates, we would too have to move as our environment shifts. It's logical and natural.
But a spider, on the horror.
Besides...it's kind of cute.
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