Conservationists are working to create conditions that could allow the rare Rangatira spider to return to parts of the Chatham Islands. The giant native spider has been missing from the main Chatham Island and Pitt Island for more than 100 years. It now lives naturally on only two small protected islands. Conservation groups want to restore forests and reduce predators so the spider could eventually spread to other areas.
Rangatira spiders are among New Zealand’s largest spiders. Female spiders can weigh up to five grams before laying eggs, which is almost as heavy as New Zealand’s smallest bird, the tītitipounamu. Despite their large size, the spiders are described as relatively friendly. They spend much of the day hiding in logs and holes in trees before coming out after dark to hunt wētā.
The spiders once lived on several islands across the Chatham Islands. Habitat loss and introduced predators are believed to have caused their disappearance from much of their former home. The remaining populations live on Hokorereoro, also known as Rangatira Island, and Maung’Re, also known as Mangere Island.
The Chatham Islands Landscape Restoration Trust is working to restore native ecosystems across the islands. Conservationists say the spiders need forests with large, old trees and plenty of wētā to eat. They also need protection from animals such as mice, rats, possums and weka. Restoring suitable habitat could give the spiders safe new places to live and reduce their reliance on their two remaining island homes.
SMART Prep | Quick Question 
