A rare video captures the astonishing sight of hundreds of eight-legged creatures seemingly falling from the sky, explained as a strange phenomenon.
Experts explain the shocking scene captured in Brazil
A rare and unsettling sight shocked residents in Brazil. Hundreds of spiders appeared to be raining down from the sky. The eerie footage, captured in São Thomé das Letras, Minas Gerais, quickly went viral online.
While many were baffled by the nightmare-like scene, experts have provided a scientific explanation. This strange event is actually part of a large-scale mating ritual.
Spiders appear to fall like snowflakes in the viral footage
@thesun This is the horror moment spiders appear to rain from the sky in Brazil. #spiders #spidersoftiktok #terrifying #scary #spooky
In the footage, countless spiders can be seen descending from above. Their movements resemble falling snowflakes—but with eight legs.
The clip, shared widely on social media, left many viewers horrified. Some called it “spider heaven,” while others shared their own experiences of witnessing similar events.
One local recalled:
“It happened in my brother’s backyard in Tiradentes. Always in the late afternoon. I was terrified when I first saw it.”
Scientists reveal the spiders were engaged in a mating ritual
Biologists and arachnologists have clarified that the spiders were not actually falling. Instead, they were moving on an enormous web suspended in the air.
Biologist Kayron Passos explained:
“It’s a spider orgy. The females store semen from multiple males in a structure called a spermatheca to fertilize their eggs later.”
He added:
“This behavior increases genetic diversity, making the offspring more resistant to diseases.”
Even after fertilization, female spiders continue collecting sperm. This ensures better survival rates for their young.
Certain spider species exhibit social behavior and form colonies
Not all spiders live alone. Some species display social behaviors, forming large colonies for survival.
Arachnologist Ana Lucia Tourinho, an expert with nearly 30 years of experience, elaborated:
“Most spiders are solitary, but some species live in groups. This strategy helps ensure food supply for their young.”
She added:
“These colonies form yearly, usually consisting of generations of mothers and daughters. Once mating is complete, they disperse.”
Experts say this phenomenon is rare but natural
Despite its terrifying appearance, scientists confirm that this phenomenon is completely natural.
While the footage shocked online audiences, locals in Minas Gerais are familiar with the event. It typically occurs in the late afternoon when conditions are just right.
Though many people fear spiders, experts emphasize that these colonies pose no threat to humans. Instead, they play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.