Rare Wolf Spider Found in UK After 40 Years Stunning Wildlife Discovery

A critically endangered wolf spider, the Olonia albimana, has been rediscovered in the UK’s Isle of Wight after a 40-year absence, marking one of Britain’s most exciting “lost species” rediscoveries of the century. The tiny, orange-legged spider was found in the National Trust’s Newtown Nature Reserve, a remote area accessible only by boat.

The species, last seen in 1985, was located about 2 kilometers from its previous colony. Scientists and conservationists hailed the discovery as a major success for habitat restoration and wildlife conservation efforts.

“This discovery is a testament to how careful habitat management, combined with curiosity and collaboration, can produce remarkable results,” said Graeme Lyons, a member of the search team.

The spider has been nicknamed the “white-knuckle wolf spider” due to the distinctive pale “fingers” on its small leg-like appendages. Its exact hunting techniques remain a mystery, as it is known to have a weak web, but like other wolf spiders, it likely stalks prey on the ground.

Mark Telfer, the entomologist who led the survey, said:
"I have seen over 500 species of spiders in the British Isles, and this is the most exciting find yet. Finding the first one with just nine minutes to spare was unbelievable."

Dr Helen Smith, conservation officer at the British Arachnological Society, described the discovery as one of Britain’s most significant “lost species” rediscoveries. She highlighted that the spider had disappeared from older sites due to habitat loss, emphasizing the importance of the restoration work at Newtown Nature Reserve.

The reserve, once overgrown, was carefully restored by the National Trust, aided by a flock of Hebridean sheep that maintained the short, sunny grassland preferred by the spider. This work has not only provided a habitat for the spider but created conditions for it to thrive and reproduce.

The discovery is expected to prompt further research into the spider’s population size and the conditions needed to expand its range and secure its future.

This remarkable find underscores the value of conservation, habitat management, and scientific exploration, showing how even species thought lost can reappear under the right conditions.

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