Real or Fake: Is This Viral Video of a Spider-Infested Subway Station Legit?

Have you ever experienced a spider infestation? Whether you have or have not, this video is sure to send chills down your spine. The video was released by a German couple on their social media platforms, such as YouTube and TikTok. In the video, the mother, Aleks, pokes a long stick underneath a vending machine in a subway station. With her son watching in anticipation behind her, Aleks backs away to reveal what lurks underneath the vending machine.

Suddenly, a swarm of creepy crawlies escape from under the vending machine. The arachnids scurry quickly around the subway floor as Aleks and her son run away in fear. As terrifying as the escapade may appear, the spider infestation was faked. Family Booms, Aleks and her family’s account name, mentions the software used to create the spider infestation in its YouTube comments. Called Sdyderfy, the add-on by LightArchitect can create animal CGI, including swarms of insects, birds, and­–you guessed it–arachnids.

Arachnophobia

Arachnophobia is the intense fear of spiders, and up to 15% of the United States population struggles with arachnophobia. While arachnophobia doesn’t encompass the simple fear of these creepy crawlies, the general fear of spiders is prevalent throughout the country. In a survey by YouGov America, 24% of participants claimed that they were afraid of spiders. Therefore, making a viral video on a spider infestation was likely a great way for Family Booms to garner views. Often, it’s hard to look away from something so intense as a mass spider infestation, even if we deeply fear the outcome.

Why do Spider Infestations Happen?

Spiders typically come into homes because they seek shelter and food. The ways in which spiders can enter a home include through vents, through cracks in a home’s foundation, or by unsealed locations such as underneath doors. To avoid a spider entrance into the home, ensuring that these areas are sealed is key to success.

Spiders that infest homes are looking for food in most cases. The diet of spiders includes other insects. Thus, an infestation of another, less formidable insect could lead to an infestation of the fearful arachnid. Keeping the house clean ensures that spiders do not have a place to hide or nest. Clothes scattered around the floor or unorganized boxes and other items throughout the house make a fantastic hiding place for these creatures. If the home is clean, spiders will have fewer opportunities to hide for an extended period.

What is most horrifying about spider infestations is that spiders will have the chance to lay eggs. Egg sacs can hold thousands of growing spider eggs. When these eggs hatch, a swarm of spiders will be released into the home. In these dire cases, calling an exterminator is necessary. Be wary of spider webs within the home and look near compost and plants for the presence of spiders. Live plants within the home are a spider’s ideal spot for hanging out.

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The photo featured at the top of this post is © Bernard DUPONT / flickr – License / Original