Britain is experiencing a surge in the population of a gargantuan spider species capable of growing to the size of a human hand. The once-endangered Fen Raft spider has seen a dramatic resurgence after painstaking conservation efforts. Observant staff at Chester Zoo took it upon themselves to spearhead a spider revival. A decade ago, they reintroduced thousands of them into the wild. Although they typically hunt across water surfaces, some Fen Raft spiders have ventured into homes.

Chester Zoo has revealed that the reintroduction programme has been a success, with an estimated 10,000 females now fertile and thriving - a record for the UK's spider population. A statement from the zoo said: "Ten years ago we helped release thousands of giant spiders back into the UK! The Fen Raft spiders were bred right here at the zoo, and we're super happy to report there are now more than 10,000 breeding females and they've just had the biggest mating season on record!"

The zoo also stressed that despite their intimidating size, Fen Raft spiders pose no threat to humans and they're actually an integral part of aquatic ecosystems. The spiders are distinguishable by their brown or dark cigar-shaped bodies adorned with a white, cream, or yellow stripe on each side.

These semi-aquatic creatures boast long legs covered in fine hairs, which they use to sense vibrations on the water's surface before launching an attack on their prey. Unlike the common house spider that relies on webs to ensnare insects, Fen Raft spiders have a more aggressive approach to hunting.

Their diet is varied and includes other spiders, damselflies, dragonfly larvae, pond skaters, and they're even known to prey on fish and tadpoles.

How Did the Fen Raft Spider Nearly Go Extinct?

The Fen Raft spider's near extinction was largely due to the destruction of its wetland home. Fifteen years ago, the species faced a bleak future, teetering on the edge of disappearance. However, a collaborative effort between Chester Zoo and the RSPB initiated a rescue mission to save these fascinating creatures.

The Spider Revival: A Decade of Conservation

Chester Zoo embarked on a meticulous breeding program, rearing hundreds of baby spiders in individual test tubes. "Our team delicately hand fed tiny flies to each of the hundreds of spiderlings using tweezers, day in, day out, for weeks on end in our bio-secure breeding facility," the zoo explained. "Eventually, the young spiders grew strong enough to be returned to their natural habitat, which our partners worked to restore, and we released them in their hundreds!"

The RSPB, a leading wildlife conservation charity, has also played a critical role in the spider's recovery. "The Fen Raft Spider is one of the UK's rarest invertebrates and we are proud of the role our reserves and teams have played in its recovery," said Tim Strudwick, RSPB Mid Yare nature reserves site manager. "These spiders have an important role in maintaining the rich aquatic diversity found in the grazing ditches on our reserves. The females are impressive in size, but also beautiful - they are truly special to see!"

A Web of Life: The Importance of the Fen Raft Spider

The Fen Raft spider's resurgence is a testament to the power of conservation efforts. These spiders, while they may appear intimidating to some, are vital to the health of aquatic ecosystems. Their presence indicates a thriving and balanced environment. Their success story is a reminder of the interconnectedness of nature and the crucial role that even seemingly insignificant creatures play in maintaining the delicate balance of our world.