Quck answer
The idea that we swallow spiders in our sleep is a myth. While it is possible for a spider to accidentally crawl into our mouths while we sleep, it is highly unlikely. Spiders prefer dry environments and are not attracted to the moisture in our mouths. Additionally, our natural reflexes would cause us to wake up and spit out anything that enters our mouths. So, rest easy knowing that you are not likely to accidentally consume any eight-legged creatures while catching some Z’s.
Wild Animals
Spiders are considered creepy and crawly, but it is highly unlikely that they would crawl into our mouths while we sleep. The myth that humans swallow an average of eight spiders per year while sleeping has been widely spread, but it is completely inaccurate. The origin of this myth came from a magazine article as an example of how people believe anything they read without checking its accuracy. However, the odds of swallowing even a single spider over one’s entire lifespan are virtually zero.
According to a YouGov poll, one in five Americans admitted to being afraid of spiders, but in reality, spiders are more afraid of humans than we are of them. Vibrations are used by spiders to sense danger, and a sleeping human produces vibrations from breathing, heartbeats, and other sounds. This signals spiders to stay away, and they prefer to occupy quiet and unoccupied areas of the house or tend to their webs instead [source: Sneed].
If a spider does happen to approach a sleeping human and crawl into their mouth, it is still unlikely that they would be swallowed. The person would have to sleep with their mouth open fairly wide, not wake up from the sensation of a spider crawling on their face and into their mouth, and actually swallow the spider. There are no reliable reports from scientific or medical sources that prove anyone has ever swallowed a spider while sleeping, much less eight per year [source: Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture].
So, there is no need to fear falling asleep because the chances of swallowing a spider are extremely low. It is far more likely that spiders will avoid humans and prefer to occupy other areas of the home. This myth has been debunked, and there is no scientific evidence to support it.
Originally Published: Apr 22, 2015
Frequently Asked Questions about Eating Spiders
Is it possible to eat spiders?
Yes, it is possible to eat spiders. In Cambodia, people usually eat fried Asian tarantulas known as ah pieng. The taste is similar to fried prawns.
Which country is famous for eating spiders?
Cambodia is popular for its spider delicacies, especially fried tarantulas.
What happens if you consume a spider?
There is nothing serious that happens if you eat a spider. Your body will digest the spider like any other food you eat. However, it may not be the best meal you have ever had.
What does a tarantula taste like?
According to those who have tasted fried tarantulas in Cambodia, they have a bland flavor. Some people describe it as tasting like fried prawns.
More Information
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- Don’t Kill Spiders
Sources
- Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. “Just Plain Weird Stories.” Date Unknown. (Oct. 15, 2014). http://www.burkemuseum.org/spidermyth/myths/whileyousleep.html
- Lee, Jane L. “7 Bug and Spider Myths Squashed.” National Geographic. Sept. 11, 2014. (Oct. 15, 2014) http://newswatch.nationalgeographic.com/2014/09/11/bugs-animals-insects-spiders-mosquitoes-tarantulas-science-myths/
- Orth, Taylor. “Three in 10 Americans Fear Snakes.” YouGov. June 16, 2022. (May 19, 2023). https://today.yougov.com/topics/society/articles-reports/2022/06/16/americans-fear-snakes-heights-spiders-poll
- Sneed, Annie. “Fact or Fiction?: People Swallow 8 Spiders a Year While They Sleep.” Scientific American. April 15, 2014. (Oct. 15, 2014) http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/fact-or-fiction-people-swallow-8-spiders-a-year-while-they-sleep1/
- Soniak, Matt. “How Many Spiders Do You Really Swallow in Your Sleep?” Mental Floss. June 6, 2013. (Oct. 15, 2014). http://mentalfloss.com/article/50951/how-many-spiders-do-you-really-swallow-your-sleep
FAQ
1. Is it true that we swallow spiders while we sleep?
No, it is not true that we swallow spiders while we sleep. This is just a myth that has been circulating for many years. Spiders are not attracted to human beddings or human scent. They prefer to stay in their own habitats such as gardens, trees, and fields. In addition, spiders are very good at detecting vibrations, so they would feel the movement of a person’s breath and quickly move away.
2. Why do people believe that we swallow spiders in our sleep?
It is believed that the myth of swallowing spiders in our sleep started as a way to show how easily people can be fooled by false information. It was also a way to promote critical thinking and encourage people to question what they hear or read. Unfortunately, the myth has been perpetuated over the years, and many still believe it to be true.
3. Are there any dangers of swallowing spiders?
No, there are no dangers of swallowing spiders. Spiders are not poisonous or harmful to humans if swallowed. In fact, spiders are a source of protein and are consumed in many parts of the world as a delicacy. However, it is not recommended to eat spiders as they may carry diseases or parasites.
4. What should I do if I find a spider in my bedroom?
If you find a spider in your bedroom, the best thing to do is to gently catch it with a cup and a piece of paper and release it outside. Spiders are beneficial to the ecosystem as they eat other bugs and insects. If you are afraid of spiders, you can also call a pest control professional to remove them.
5. How can I prevent spiders from entering my bedroom?
You can prevent spiders from entering your bedroom by keeping your room clean and clutter-free. Spiders are attracted to dark, damp, and cluttered areas, so it is important to keep your room well-lit and dry. You can also seal any cracks or gaps in your walls or windows to prevent spiders from entering. In addition, you can use spider repellents or natural remedies such as peppermint oil, vinegar, or citrus to keep spiders away.
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