Medicinal Leech Natural History
Size
They can grow up to 20cm.
Habitat and Distribution
These leeches can be found in muddy ponds and ditches throughout Europe. They have been recorded in 24 countries including 20 populations here in the UK.
Age
This species can live for up to 10 years.
Diet
They feed on the blood and tissue of a wide variety of species including amphibians, mammals and fish.
They have three jaws with around 100 sharp teeth. After piercing the skin they inject anaesthetics (making their sucking painless) and an anticoagulant before sucking out the blood. They can consume ten times their body weight in just one meal. However, they can also go a year between meals.
Threats
These leeches are classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN. Loss of wetland habitats and a global decline in amphibians (from which they feed) are affecting their populations. They are likely to become a Vulnerable species in the next few years due to this decline.
Groups and Breeding
Medicinal Leeches are hermaphrodites (have both male and female reproductive organs). After mating each individual lays around 50 eggs close to the water in a shaded spot.
It takes 2-3 years for them to reach their adult size
Interesting Facts
They have five pairs of eyes.
Leeches were first used in medicine in 1000 BC. Their blood sucking accelerates the healing of deep wounds as they feed on the oxygenated blood which can otherwise cause gangrene and swelling. It also helps with the flow of blood.
The Medicinal Leech During Your Day Out in Kent
Our Medicinal Leeches can be seen in the Bug Garden alongside a wide variety of other species such as the Togo Starburst Tarantula, Unicorn Snail and Madagascan Hissing cockroach.