BISON ILLUSTRATION

Article by Kent Wildlife Trust's Chief Executive in British Wildlife Magazine – out now!

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Exciting news for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists! Kent Wildlife Trust’s Chief Executive, Evan Bowen-Jones, has penned a thought-provoking article in the latest issue of British Wildlife Magazine, now available to buy.

In this powerful piece, Evan explores the rationale behind the reintroduction of European bison (Bison bonasus) to West Blean Woods, Kent, as part of the pioneering Wilder Blean project. Led by Kent Wildlife Trust and Wildwood Trust, this groundbreaking initiative challenges the UK’s traditional conservation approach by prioritising ecosystem restoration over species-specific protection.

The article highlights the vital role of bison as ecosystem engineers, shaping landscapes through tree-barking, trampling, and soil disturbance to create diverse habitats that support a wide range of species. Bowen-Jones argues that to combat biodiversity loss and climate change, conservation must move beyond static, protected areas and embrace large-scale, self-sustaining ecosystems.

With climate change shifting species distributions and threatening ecosystem resilience, the piece delves into how rewilding with keystone species like bison, wild boar, and beavers can naturally manage landscapes and enhance carbon storage. The article also looks at the broader economic and societal benefits of ecosystem restoration, drawing inspiration from successful large-scale projects in the Netherlands.

The Wilder Blean project is just the beginning. The article outlines how Kent Wildlife Trust are calling for a fundamental shift in conservation policy and public perception, advocating for bold action to reintroduce natural processes and create thriving, resilient ecosystems for both wildlife and people.

Don’t miss this compelling read! Pick up your copy of British Wildlife Magazine today and discover how bison are leading the way in UK conservation.

 

An illustrated infographic designed by Katy McCarten titled "British Bison: Restoring Natural Processes" depicts the ecological benefits of reintroducing European bison (Bison bonasus) to the Blean Wildscape in England. The central focus is a group of European bison roaming a natural landscape, surrounded by various species that benefit from their presence.

Around the bison, different animals and plants are labelled to showcase biodiversity restoration. These include Exmoor ponies, Iron Age pigs, and longhorn cattle, which help recreate natural grazing assemblages. Other highlighted species include the lesser spotted woodpecker (using standing deadwood for nesting), dung beetles, fiery clearwing moths, and the wood ant. The image also illustrates the concept of "dustbathing," where bison create missing habitats for invertebrates and reptiles.

The infographic further discusses climate resilience, explaining how bison, as ecosystem engineers, boost biodiversity and habitat abundance through their physical interactions with the environment. Additionally, it features potential reintroductions such as the beaver, sand lizard, and natterjack toad to help ensure a fully functioning ecosystem.

Overall, the illustration visually communicates the role of bison in restoring natural processes, enhancing biodiversity, and promoting a resilient landscape in the face of climate change.