How does the solar eclipse affect animals?

During a total solar eclipse in July 1991, researchers studied responses of orb-weaving spiders in Mexico. The spiders acted normally until totality, when many took down their webs — only to rebuild them when the sun reappeared. Crepuscular animals often mistake solar eclipses for twilight, too. read more

In other words, Chiu says, "the eclipse (two-and-a-half minutes of darkness) should not alter the running of the clock and its output (e.g. sleep-wake cycle, feeding rhythms, hormonal rhythms, etc.) in humans and in other animals." But it will affect animals in other ways, both subtle and obvious. read more

Pets may still become fearful during the eclipse. More than the darkness of the solar eclipse, pets may be apprehensive about the crowds that gather to view it, according to Lloyd Nelson, an Illinois animal-control officer interviewed by the Southern Illinoisan. read more