We’re delighted to share some wonderful news. Animals Worldwide is now supporting an exciting conservation project focused on the protection of one of the UK’s most extraordinary and little-known species — the tadpole shrimp.
This project, led by Wildwood Trust in Kent, is already showing promising results and offers real hope for the future of this remarkable creature, often described as a “living fossil”.
A remarkable survivor
The tadpole shrimp (Triops cancriformis) has existed for more than 220 million years, surviving dramatic changes to the planet that wiped out countless other species. Despite this resilience, it is now one of the UK’s most threatened invertebrates, with only two known remaining populations — in the New Forest and near the Solway Firth in Scotland.
These tiny crustaceans live in temporary pools that dry out seasonally. It’s a challenging environment, but one they have uniquely adapted to. Their fast life cycle and remarkable ability to survive harsh conditions make them one of nature’s most fascinating success stories.
The Wildwood project
Since spring 2025, Wildwood Trust has been working to protect and restore this species through a carefully managed captive breeding programme. This work is being carried out in collaboration with Ian Hughes (Lifeforms Art) and BIAZA, as part of the Native Invertebrate Recovery Centre, in partnership with Restore.
The project builds on decades of conservation knowledge and aims to establish strong, healthy populations that can eventually support future reintroductions into the wild. Early results have been extremely encouraging, with successful breeding cycles already underway.
Visitors to Wildwood may even catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures, which are currently being cared for behind the scenes near the hazel dormouse area.
Why this work matters
Tadpole shrimp face increasing pressure from habitat loss, climate change, pollution and changes in land management. Without intervention, their future in the UK would be uncertain.
By supporting this project, Animals Worldwide is helping to protect not just a species, but an entire ecosystem that depends on balanced, healthy habitats. Conservation efforts like this ensure that rare and ancient species continue to thrive for generations to come.
We are proud to be part of this important work and to support the dedicated teams helping safeguard the future of the tadpole shrimp.
See more at https://wildwoodtrust.org/conservation-and-rewilding/conservation-projects/tadpole-shrimp/