Zoo breeds 300 near-extinct snails for reintroduction

Conservationists from Chester Zoo have bred 300 Madeiran lands snails, a species previously thought to be on the brink of extinction, and have released them back into their natural habitat. The initiative was undertaken at the request of the Madeira government.

A Perilous Reintroduction

The conservation effort involved a challenging reintroduction to Portugal's Bugio Island, part of the Madeira archipelago. Initially, only 21 Madeiran lands snails were discovered on the island, clinging to a rock face. Chester Zoo experts described the operation as potentially the trickiest reintroduction they have ever undertaken. They had to navigate treacherous conditions, including climbing cliffs in the dark and scrambling up a rock face after jumping into the water, due to the lack of a jetty and a limited window caused by rough weather.

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“We knew we had one shot to save them. If we missed this chance, that was it: they were gone.”

Tamas Papp, assistant team manager for invertebrates at Chester Zoo

The Madeiran lands snails are very small, measuring no larger than 8mm. Their ecological role is significant, as they consume vegetation and contribute to soil enrichment. The reintroduced snails will be subject to ongoing monitoring as they adapt to their environment.