In a recent interview, Katie Kelton, an invertebrate zookeeper at the Chester Zoo, shared the success story of the greater Bermuda land snails. A decade ago, the last surviving population of these snails was found in Hamilton’s alleyway, residing on concrete slabs near a dripping air conditioner. Through the dedicated efforts of conservationists, over 10,000 snails have been bred in captivity and released into Bermuda’s protected wooded areas, leading to a remarkable rebound in their population.
Kelton expressed joy at the thriving status of the snails, highlighting confirmed breeding and increasing numbers as signs of the project’s success. The collaborative initiative involving Chester Zoo, Biolinx Environmental Research, and the Bermudian government aims to rescue the species from extinction. The conservation program’s achievements will be detailed in an upcoming issue of Oryx, The International Journal of Conservation.
Despite the restoration progress, the snails still confront threats like habitat loss and invasive predators. These challenges mirror the past dangers that nearly wiped out the species. The significance of the greater Bermuda land snails lies in their role as decomposers, enriching the ecosystem by recycling nutrients. Kelton emphasized the snails’ aesthetic appeal, describing them as “really cute and pretty” due to their intricate patterns and small size.
Recognized as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the snails faced endangerment from human interference and the introduction of invasive species. Their successful reintroduction was celebrated by the IUCN during Reverse The Red Day, acknowledging efforts to combat biodiversity loss.
Kelton shared the challenges faced during the captive-breeding process, underscoring the team’s dedication to understanding and preserving the snails. While the snails have been successfully reintroduced in secure locations, concerns remain about their long-term survival in the face of potential threats. The ongoing conservation efforts in Bermuda involve monitoring and managing invasive species to safeguard the reintroduced snail colonies.
Mark Outerbridge, Bermuda’s senior biodiversity officer, highlighted the conservation measures in place on Nonsuch Island, a critical habitat for the snails. With restricted public access and active species control, the island provides a sanctuary for the snails to flourish. Continuous vigilance and community education are essential to ensuring the safety and sustainability of the reintroduced snail populations.
Kelton expressed her gratitude for being part of the snails’ rescue journey, emphasizing the importance of valuing and protecting often-overlooked species like snails. The collective efforts of conservationists, researchers, and authorities have enabled the greater Bermuda land snails to make a remarkable comeback from the brink of extinction.