However, don't despair; the huge growth in the number of Fen Raft Spiders is a conservation success story. The spider was on the verge of extinction in the UK in 2010, but has thankfully made a comeback thanks to the efforts of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. While they may look big and scary, the fen raft spider is harmless and plays a VITAL role within healthy aquatic ecosystems. However, 15 years ago, they almost became… pic.twitter.com/tc3owOFVqV — Chester Zoo (@chesterzoo) August 21, 2024The Fen Raft SpiderThe Fen Raft Spider's diet includes other spiders, damselflies, dragonfly larvae and even fish and tadpoles. “These spiders have an important role in maintaining the rich aquatic diversity found in the grazing ditches on our reserves.