Giant spiders that can grow to size of human hand thriving in the UK

Collaboration between RSPB and Chester zoo leads to best mating season on record for the semi-aquatic fen raft spider

Thousands of giant spiders that can grow to the size of a human hand are thriving in the UK, thanks to a successful breeding programme from Chester zoo.

The fen raft spider is a harmless arachnid that plays a vital role in aquatic ecosystems, but 15 years ago was on the brink of extinction because of habitat loss.