A conservation effort has successfully released over 1,300 tiny snails onto a remote Atlantic island, marking a significant step in the recovery plan for two critically endangered species.
Reviving a Species on the Brink of Extinction
Over 1,300 tiny snails have been released onto a remote Atlantic island, marking a significant conservation effort to revive two critically endangered species. The snails, bred in zoos in the UK and France, were set free on Bugio Island as part of a species recovery plan.
A Century-Long Obsession
For over a century, neither of these two desertas land snail species had been spotted on their native Desertas Island. Habitat destruction caused by invasive predators such as rats, mice, and goats led to their presumed extinction. However, in 2012, conservation expeditions discovered a small population of just 200 individuals surviving on the rocky cliffs of Deserta Grande.
A Collaborative Rescue Effort
Chester Zoo played a crucial role in this rescue effort, collaborating with conservationists from Madeira‘s Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests. A team of experts worked together to create a miniature habitat tank for 60 snails, recreating the right conditions for their survival.
Using non-toxic markers, the zoo-bred snails were marked with identification dots, which will enable conservationists to track their movement, growth, and adaptation to the new environment. This colour-coded system will allow researchers to monitor the snails’ progress and make informed decisions about future conservation efforts.
A Step Towards Recovery
The release of these 1,329 snails marks a significant step in the recovery plan for these critically endangered species. If successful, more snails are expected to be released next spring. The team’s efforts demonstrate that it is possible to turn things around for highly threatened species, highlighting the importance of collaboration and conservation.
The Importance of Tiny Creatures
Snails like these may seem insignificant, but they play a vital role in their ecosystem. As food for other native species, snails help break down organic matter and bring nutrients to the soil. They also contribute to plant growth, making them an essential component of the natural habitat on the Desertas Islands.
By preserving these tiny creatures, we are also preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystems. The conservation efforts on Bugio Island serve as a reminder that even the smallest actions can have a significant impact on the health of our planet.
