Rat-sized spiders making a comeback in the UK

These rat-sized fern raft spiders could be making a comeback in the UK, according to the RSPB. They were previously known to exist in just three isolated populations in 2010, having almost gone extinct in the 20th century. Now, their numbers have increased to an estimated 10,000 breeding females across the nation following years of conversation work by the RSPB and Chester Zoo. The RSPB says the best way to spot the spiders is when females create a nursery for their young which is visible above the surface of water. Watch more on Independent TV: The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking newsbrand, providing global news, commentary and analysis for the independently-minded. Subscribe: Find us on social: TikTok / @independent Instagram / X (Twitter) / Facebook /