Chester Zoo: Giant spiders released by zoo have record mating season
"Giant Spiders Flourish After Zoo Release"
Photo credit: Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo mentioned that the Fen Raft spider can reach a size comparable to that of your hand.
According to conservationists, a large number of "giant spiders" that were set free by a zoo are flourishing in their natural habitat and have experienced an unprecedented breeding season.
Ten years ago, Chester Zoo introduced the spiders into the wild as part of a collaboration with the RSPB, aiming to prevent the species from disappearing.
This year, over 10,000 female Fen Raft spiders have been documented, and zoo officials are celebrating the breeding program as a major achievement.
They mentioned that these arachnids could reach hand-sized dimensions, making them easy to spot.
Photo credit: Chester Zoo
Staff raised baby spiders in test tubes and fed them flies by hand.
The Fen Raft was crucial for maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems, but nearly 15 years ago, it was on the brink of extinction due to the destruction of its wetland habitat by humans, according to the zoo.
The baby spiders needed to be raised in separate test tubes to prevent them from eating one another, and the zoo staff used tweezers to carefully feed them small flies.
In the end, the young spiders became strong enough to be returned to their natural environment, which the RSPB helped to rehabilitate, and we set them free by the hundreds," said a spokesperson from the zoo.
In a post on X, Chester Zoo expressed their pride in participating in a conservation breeding rescue initiative. They are collaborating with the RSPB to help protect the Fen Raft spider from extinction.
Photo credit: Chester Zoo
Before the zoo and the RSPB started their conservation initiative, the spiders faced the threat of disappearing forever.
The zoo mentioned that the spider can be recognized by a distinctive white stripe that extends along its body.
Tim Strudwick, the site manager for RSPB Mid Yare in Norfolk, stated, "These spiders play a crucial role in supporting the diverse aquatic life that thrives in the grazing ditches within our reserves."
He mentioned that the females were "remarkable in size, yet also stunning – witnessing them is a truly unique experience."
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