The herd, released during a record-breaking heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40°C, has since been actively transforming Blean Woods. Their grazing and natural behaviours create light and space on the forest floor, enabling other species to flourish.
The project has also celebrated a significant milestone with the birth of four bison calves, contributing to the conservation of this once nearly extinct species. Meanwhile, construction of the UK’s first-ever "bison bridges" is nearing completion, expanding the herd's roaming area to 200 hectares of ancient woodland to further enhance their ecological impact.
Bison Ranger Hannah Mackins says:
“It was a wonderful surprise for our project to be featured as a Changemaker of 2025. We are delighted that the bison continue to inspire and stand as a positive good news nature story. This project demonstrates that we can think differently about conservation and create a better future for our planet.”
Hannah’s article can be viewed online here with beautiful bison imagery captured by Wildwood Trust’s Bison Ranger Donovan Wright.