A venomous Black Widow spider has been rescued by Rutland Sanctuary Zoo after being found in a box of car parts in a Grantham based garage on the 1st of August 2022.

The zoo, previously called Bugtopia, was taken over in September 2020 and rebranded Rutland Sanctuary Zoo, reopening in May 2021 after being delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The new owners are a married couple, Jez and Joanna, who were gifted the facility by the previous owners after contacting them about an animal in their care.

Joanna said: "It certainly escalated, but the previous owners knew about our passion for animals so it made sense. We had knowledge about rehoming, and now we have the facilities to do so properly."

Visitors to the zoo can see a wide range of exotic animals, including snakes, iguanas, lorikeets, mice, lizards and much more.

Now, they have a new permanent resident, after their exciting find in Grantham in early August.

Bella the black widow spider was found by an employee of a garage in Grantham on the 1st of August 2022. 

It is suspected that she was imported in a box of car parts, as they are not native to the UK, most commonly originating in North and South America as well as Australia. The scientific name for this breed is Latrodectus, and they are identifiable by the red hourglass markings on their front. 

Jez explained: "The guys in Grantham didn't know what it was, so they didn't go near it. They did the right thing. We then collected her and she is now at the zoo, getting the care she needs in a secure, safe space."

This is a great example of the important work undertaken by Rutland Sanctuary Zoo, who rescue critters, insects and animals in need, like little Bella.

Jez added: "We are a Rescue zoo and sanctuary, so this is what we do - we take in animals that are unwanted and rehome them safely, providing the best care possible."

Bella is now set up in her new enclosure at Rutland Sanctuary Zoo, on display for visitors to visit and learn more about. 

The 'lord of the manor' Zeke has also welcomed his new lady friend (image courtesy of Rutland Sanctuary Zoo)

Rutland Sanctuary Zoo can be found on the North Shore of Rutland Water and are open from 10am - 4pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday, and from 10am - 4pm on Sunday.

For those looking for more than just a visit to the sanctuary zoo, Jez and Joanna also have volunteer positions available. To volunteer at Rutland Sanctuary Zoo, you must be able to commit 1 day a week. The volunteering experience can be tailored to suit you, whether you want to get involved in the day-to-day care of the animals, or help out with maintenance or gardening duties in the jungle section of the facility. 

Joanna and Jez concluded: "We are reliant on people coming to see us. This is the only way that we can continue helping exotic breeds."

The centre is fully undercover, so is a fantastic family day out come rain or shine. 

Tickets begin at £6, a small fee for the continued conservation of at-risk animals. 

Follow Rutland Sanctuary Zoo on Facebook, call the team on 07526 435416 or find them at Sykes Ln, Oakham LE15 8QL.