Even more Spiders on display at Stratford Butterfly Farm!

The Stratford Butterfly Farm has recently taken in a number of new Spiders which are on display in Minibeast Metropolis. These include 3 Australian Redback Spiders, also known as latrodectus hasselti along with a Chilean Rose Tarantula, otherwise known as Grammostola rosea. Also newly displayed is a Giant Prickly Stick Insect, its scientific name is Extatasoma tiaratum.

The female Redback Spiders are jet black and about the size of a 5p piece with a bright red stripe down their abdomen. The males are only 3mm and are light brown with white markings and no stripe. The Spiders are very similar to Black Widow Spiders found in the USA. The females are cannibalistic like the Black Widow but with an unusual twist - the male Redback will assist the female by presenting himself to her so she can eat him!

The Chilean Rose Tarantula is a typically tame and docile species of Tarantula, best known for its lovely pink colouring on its body. They have tiny hair like barbs that can be used as defence by flicking the bristles at a predator causing an irritating, itching sensation! The Giant Prickly Stick Insect, otherwise known as Macleay's Spectre, originates from Australia. It is very well camouflaged and will curl its tail up over its body to mimic a scorpion which helps keep the predators away!

Throughout the summer holidays from 23 July - 3 September children and adults can take part in twice daily 'Meet the Mini-Beast' handling sessions in the Discovery Zone with the education team. Visitors can hold creatures such as a Madagascan Hissing Cockroach, giant African Millipede, African land Snail and a variety of Stick Insects. There will also be informative talks about the Beetles, and the amazing Leafcutter Ant colony, now one of the largest in the UK!

Launched this summer between the Stratford Butterfly Farm and award-winning attractions, Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall and the Mad Museum, is a special 'Family Super Saver' ticket for 2 adults and up to 2 children. This fantastic value ticket priced at £57 allows entrance into all 3 attractions at one great price. Families may use the ticket for one visit to each attraction with a month in which to use it.

Jane Kendrick, Marketing Manager at Stratford Butterfly Farm said "Along with our new Spiders, Meet the Mini-beast handling sessions, plus a fantastic family super saver ticket, Stratford Butterfly Farm has something for all the family to enjoy this summer"!

To see hundreds of spectacular butterflies, insects, reptiles and spiders visit the Butterfly Farm from 10am to 6:00pm, last entry 5.30pm. Open every day of the week except Christmas Day. For more information including admission prices and group rates, please visit the website at http://www.butterflyfarm.co.uk or telephone on 01789 299288.

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