A rare species of snail, known as the Glutinous snail, has made an unusual journey that resulted in an unexpected but successful reproduction event. These tiny snails, no larger than a fingertip, were transported from Llyn Tegid, a lake in Eryri National Park (also known as Snowdonia) in Wales, to Wingham Wildlife Park in Kent. During the six-hour car ride, the snails laid eggs, which were discovered by the staff upon arrival at the zoo. This event marks a significant step in a broader conservation effort aimed at saving the species from extinction. The Glutinous snail was once common in UK waterways, but due to habitat destruction and environmental changes, its population has dwindled to the point where it is now only found in Llyn Tegid. As part of a conservation initiative, Wingham Wildlife Park has taken some of the wild population to breed in captivity with the hope of eventually releasing them back into the wild. Samantha Eden, an assistant curator at the park, explained that the zoo started with six snails and has since established a new colony. Recently, Eden transported 24 snails from Wales and discovered 12 egg pods in the transport containers, indicating the snails had laid eggs during the journey. The zoo has now moved 130 baby snails from their original pond to start a new colony. Hannah Ellins, head of reptiles and invertebrates at Wingham Wildlife Park, noted that while the zoo typically works with exotic species, helping native wildlife is particularly rewarding. The park plans to continue breeding the snails and hopes to eventually release them into the wild to help increase their numbers. This project is part of a larger national effort to protect the Glutinous snail and restore its population across the UK. Wingham Wildlife Park is collaborating with other zoos and conservation organizations, including Askham Bryan Wildlife Park in York, Longleat in Wiltshire, Dudley and Chester zoos, and the Freshwater Habitats Trust. Together, they are searching for suitable water bodies where the snails could be released in the future. This collaborative approach highlights the importance of conservation efforts in preserving rare and endangered species.