Nature needs us. Habitats are being destroyed and species are declining at their fastest rate for thousands of years. The ‘Wilder Blean’ project is creating a nature-based solution that will restore one of the largest remaining ancient woodlands in England and support nature recovery across the UK.
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The UK’s woodlands are facing greater threats than ever before – from climate change and invasive species, to pollution and development. Just 7% are in good ecological condition. Our ancient woodlands, in particular, are irreplaceable; they support more species than any other land-based habitat and are home to iconic plants and animals – like bluebells, dormice and lesser spotted woodpecker. But up to 70% have been lost or damaged in the last century. They now cover just 2.5% of the UK.
Kent Wildlife Trust is driving a pioneering ‘Wilding’ approach which harnesses the power of nature to restore thriving woodlands. In 2022, we, and Wildwood Trust, introduced European bison – known as ‘ecosystem engineers’ for their ability to naturally manage habitats – into West Blean woods, alongside Iron Age pigs, longhorn cattle, and Exmoor ponies. This innovative, experimental project is helping to create a sustainable model that can be replicated to support nature recovery across the UK.
