Fen raft spider population rebounds in UK after record mating season
independent.co.uk — November 4, 2024, 12:01 PM UTC
The fen raft spider population in the UK has surged after a record mating season, marking a significant recovery from near extinction 14 years ago. Conservation efforts, including releases by Chester Zoo, have led to over 10,000 breeding females. Chester Zoo began its restoration project a decade ago, releasing thousands of these large, harmless spiders back into their wetland habitats. The spiders can grow as large as a rat and are known for their ability to skate across water. The fen raft spider, which thrives in fens and marshes, has become more visible during the summer months. Conservationists have successfully bred and released these spiders, helping to restore their numbers in the wild.