Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 8th April 2022
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Regal jumping spiders arrive at ZSL London Zoo
Regal jumping spiders can jump 10cm forwards from a standing start, spinning a line of silk behind them to ensure a safe landing.

The spiders will be helping people to cure arachnophobia. 

ZSL London Zoo has welcomed regal jumping spiders to its Tiny Giants exhibit, and these distinctive creatures will be helping arachnophobes overcome their fear in the zoo's Friendly Spider Programme.

Dave Clarke, London Zoo's head of invertebrates, said: “At just 22mm regal jumping spiders may be small, but are very cute as they have recognisable ‘face’ with forward pointing eyes and some of the best vision in the spider world.”

These spiders, hailing from the southeastern United States and the West Indies, can jump 10cm forward from a standing start by suddenly flexing the muscles in their legs. They are also known for their courtship dance, which the male regal jumping spiders do to attract a mate. 

The spiders have arrived in time for participants of the zoo's Friendly Spider Programme to meet them, in their quest to overcome a fear of spiders. The programme, which runs periodically, teaches participants all about spiders, squashes myths, and gives them a chance to practice catching spiders.

“We’ve made it our mission to quash as many myths about spiders as possible and help people overcome their phobia, converting spider-squishers into bug lovers through our world-leading Friendly Spider Programme – and I think these cute new arrivals are going to be a big help,” said Dave Clarke. 

“As well as helping to alleviate a phobia that can seriously impact your day-to-day life, the Friendly Spider Programme has directly supported wildlife conservation projects for invertebrates, including the successful reintroduction of the native semi-aquatic Fen raft spider. 

“This species is listed as threatened in the UK, but the fen raft spider’s range is now increasing thanks to conservation efforts.”

 

Images (C) ZSL London Zoo

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.