Some Russian superstitions are really ancient and come from the pagan times when Slavonic tribes worshiped statues of various Gods and believed in the powers of nature. This is actually a very interesting peculiarity in Russia: even though people still believe in such superstitions, omens and even have holidays (Mardi Gras) that originated in pagan times, they also believe in Orthodox church which proclaims those beliefs ungodly and heretical. That is why in Russia it is quite possible to see a person cross fingers and later cross himself or herself. Here are some Russian superstitions that are mainly related to nature, animals and weather.

        In Russia killing a cricket may bring bad luck.

        Killing a frog will cause a heavy rain.

        A little spider that comes down off the ceiling on a spider web means that you will receive a letter or news from someone you haven't heard from in a while.

        A bird that flew into a closed window is a very bad sign of bad luck or even death.

        A black cat crossing your path is considered to be an sign of bad luck.

        If a cat is closing its nose with its paws, a snowstorm is coming.

        If a cat is rolling on its back, a snowstorm is coming.

        If a cat is sharpening claws against furniture or wood, the weather is going to be cold.

        If sparrows are bathing in a puddle in spring, warm weather is coming.

       To learn more also read about Russian Superstitions in Everyday Life.