A local mandarin orange farmer, known as Li, stumbled upon a rare Chinese hourglass spider while clearing weeds in his orchard. Initially, Li believed he had unearthed an ancient relic, but the mysterious object turned out to be an exceptionally rare arachnid species.
Li, a resident of Pu Jong Village in the southernmost part of Changdu, has been facing challenges in his orange farming due to unpredictable weather patterns caused by increased pollution and climate change. In an attempt to supplement his income, Li was clearing his orchard in November when he discovered the peculiar creature buried in the ground.
Upon closer inspection and online research, Li identified the creature as a Chinese hourglass spider, a species documented in ancient texts dating back to the 5th Century BC. Despite being mentioned in historical records, these spiders had not been seen in modern times until the year 2000. They are known for their unique underground burrows and trapdoor made of soil, plants, and silk.
News of Li’s find quickly spread throughout Pu Jong Village, attracting locals who were eager to catch a glimpse of the rare arachnid. Recognizing the scientific value of the discovery, Li considered selling the spider, with online prices for wild specimens reaching up to $1,700. However, his first priority is to find a suitable home for the creature.
As Li contemplates the future of the Chinese hourglass spider, he grapples with the decision of whether to sell it as a pet or ensure its well-being in a suitable environment. The story highlights the intersection of history, science, and the everyday challenges faced by farmers in the ever-changing agricultural landscape of Sichuan Province.
This unexpected encounter has not only brought attention to Li’s orchard but also to the importance of preserving and understanding rare species that contribute to the rich tapestry of China’s natural history.
