Thousands of GIANT spiders 'size of a human hand' on the loose in Britain after Chester Zoo releases 8-legged monstrosities

Chester Zoo and the RSPB, who successfully saved the fen raft spider from near-extinction in the UK, reported that there are now more than 10,000 breeding females across the country.

The "fist-sized" spiders were left in a near-extinction state around fifteen years ago as repopulation efforts were being made in response to the destruction of its wetland habitat.

Chester Zoo decided to launch an ambitious conservation breeding programme in partnership with the RSPB just a few years later.

The zoo's dedicated team reared hundreds of baby spiders in individual test tubes, meticulously hand-feeding them tiny flies using tweezers.

This painstaking effort appears to have paid off, with the RSPB reporting the "best year on record" for the species.

The fen raft spider, despite its imposing size, plays a vital role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems.

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These semi-aquatic arachnids are known for their impressive size, with legs that can span the width of a human hand. They are named for their ability to run across water surfaces to catch prey.

The spiders' legs are covered in tiny hairs that detect the slightest vibrations on the water, allowing them to hunt effectively.

Unlike many spiders, fen raft spiders don't build webs.

Instead, they actively hunt their prey, which includes other spiders, damselflies, dragonfly larvae, and even small fish and tadpoles.

Tim Strudwick, RSPB Mid Yare nature reserves site manager, said: "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."

"These spiders have an important role in maintaining the rich aquatic diversity found in the grazing ditches on our reserves," he added.

Strudwick also highlighted the beauty of these spiders, stating: "The females are impressive in size, but also beautiful - they are truly special to see!"

Chester Zoo recently celebrated the success of their conservation efforts. "Ten years ago we helped release thousands of giant spiders back into the UK!" the zoo announced.

Despite their intimidating appearance, the massive spiders pose no threat to humans.

In fact, there presence is seen as a positive indicator of ecosystem health in UK wetlands.