sademäkkien

Sademäkkien, or "rain spiders," is a colloquial Finnish term that refers to a group of small, often misidentified arachnids commonly observed during rainy weather. The name stems from their frequent appearance on surfaces after precipitation, particularly on walls, windows, and other structures. These creatures are not true spiders but are typically members of the harvestman family (Opiliones), which includes species like the common harvestman (*Leiobunum rotundum*) or the daddy longlegs (*Phylloctenus mandelslohi*).

Harvestmen are easily distinguishable from spiders by their long legs and lack of a segmented abdomen. They lack venomous fangs and are generally harmless to humans, feeding primarily on small insects and other arthropods. Their presence during rain is attributed to their preference for damp environments and their tendency to seek shelter on surfaces to avoid desiccation.

Contrary to popular belief, sademäkkien are not aggressive and do not pose a threat to humans. They play a beneficial role in ecosystems by controlling pest populations. Misconceptions about their venomous nature or dangerous behavior often arise from their resemblance to spiders, which are sometimes feared. In Finland, they are generally considered harmless and are not targeted by pest control measures.

Their appearance during rainy periods is a natural behavior rather than an infestation, and they typically disperse once conditions dry out. Observing sademäkkien is a common occurrence in rural and urban settings alike, offering a glimpse into the diversity of small arachnids in Finnish nature.