Thousands of spiders were released into the wild after a breeding programme at Chester Zoo.

Thousands of “giant spiders” which were released into the wild by a zoo are thriving in the wild and have had a record mating season, conservationists have said.

Chester Zoo released the spiders a decade ago as part of a project with the RSPB which aimed to save the species from extinction.

More than 10,000 breeding female Fen Raft spiders have been recorded this year, with zoo bosses hailing the breeding programme “a success”.

  • NoForwardslashS@sopuli.xyzEnglish
    6·
    8 days ago

    They said the arachnids could “grow to be the size of your hand” so “you can’t miss them”.

    Why would they do this

    • Psaldorn@lemmy.worldEnglish
      5·
      8 days ago

      To save them from extinction.

      As an arachnophobe near Chester, I’m thrilled 😐

      They don’t deserve extinction though… just hope they stay out of my house

      • HumanPenguin@feddit.ukEnglish
        3·
        7 days ago

        At least their size means they need to knock or ring the doorbell.

        I m sure that will make you feel better.

          • HumanPenguin@feddit.ukEnglish
            2·
            6 days ago

            Good question. Size wise couple of dozen.

            But to actually move a heavy coat in a human looking way. Likely 100 or more.

            But the real question is what is most scary.

            100s of spiders turning up at once.

            Or the door bell ringing. You answer no one there. And you wondering for the rest of your tenency. Was it kids. Or did a single huge spider sneak in.