How rewilding could turn Britain into a modern day Jurassic Park: Scientists want to reintroduce wolves and bears to the UK – but critics warn it could be 'catastrophic'

Debate Rages Over Predator Reintroduction in UK Wildlands

The prospect of encountering a wolf on a tranquil woodland walk is, for many in Britain, an unimaginable scenario. However, a contentious ‘rewilding’ initiative has sparked discussion, suggesting such encounters could become a reality. British scientists and landowners are advocating for the return of apex predators – wolves, bears, and lynxes – to the UK countryside, echoing a time when these species freely roamed the land before their extinction in the region.

Concerns Arise Over Potential Impacts

This proposition, while championed by some, is not without its detractors. Concerns are mounting regarding the potential for these predators toDecimate livestock, particularly sheep flocks, and pose a threat to domestic animals. Critics have labeled the scheme a potential ‘catastrophe’, highlighting the risks associated with large carnivores re-establishing in the British Isles.

Wolves and Bears Currently in UK Sanctuaries

Wolves and bears are not entirely absent from Britain today. Bristol Zoo Project, managed by the Bristol Zoological Society, houses both species within a public-accessible, zoo-style habitat. This managed environment offers a glimpse of these animals, yet it is far removed from the concept of them roaming freely in the wild. Currently, no known wolf or bear populations exist outside of captivity within the UK.

Farmers Voice Strong Opposition

The notion of releasing these predators into the wild has been met with stiff resistance, particularly from agricultural communities. Andrew Connon, president of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) Scotland, has denounced the idea as ‘unacceptable’. His comments followed proposals to potentially reintroduce these animals to the Scottish Highlands, a region heavily reliant on farming.

‘NFU Scotland is emphatically clear that any plans to reintroduce predators like lynx, wolves, or bears are completely unacceptable to Scottish farmers and crofters,’ Mr. Connon stated to MailOnline.

Public and Political Acceptance Key Hurdles

Professor Ian Convery from the University of Cumbria, specializing in environment and society, explained that establishing wild populations would necessitate ‘translocating’ wolves and bears from countries where they are thriving. A crucial factor in gaining approval for such a scheme is securing public and political backing.

‘Public opinion is likely to vary significantly across different demographics, and it is essential to carefully consider the concerns of those most likely to be affected by reintroduction,’ Professor Convery emphasized.

‘Ecologically, Scotland presents a strong case for wolves. Suitable habitats and ample prey are available, suggesting they could flourish if reintroduced. However, the social and political dimensions are considerably more intricate.’

Feasibility of Wolf Reintroduction Questioned

Professor Dominick Spracklen, from the University of Leeds, specializing in biosphere and atmosphere interactions, suggested that wolf reintroductions ‘might never be viable in the UK’.

‘Currently, many individuals, particularly farmers, would oppose wolf reintroduction,’ he noted.

‘Wolves would naturally prey on sheep and other livestock, justifying farmer apprehension. Farmer-wolf conflict remains a significant challenge across Europe.’

Potential Ecological Advantages of Predator Reintroduction

However, Professor Spracklen acknowledged potential benefits, suggesting wolves could decrease road accidents involving red deer. Proponents of rewilding frequently emphasize the historical presence of these creatures in Britain.

Historical Context of Predators in Britain

The grey wolf (Canis lupus) inhabited Britain from inter-glacial periods (~50,000 years ago) until the mid-18th century before extinction due to hunting. The brown bear (Ursus arctos), also a former dominant UK predator, vanished roughly 1,000 years ago.

Long-Standing Proposals for Wolf Reintroduction

Ideas to reintroduce grey wolves to the Scottish Highlands and English countryside have been circulating for over 25 years. In 1999, zoology lecturer Dr. Martyn Gorman at Aberdeen University proposed wolves could regulate red deer populations effectively.

Wolves as Natural Regulators of Deer Populations

Red deer overgrazing, consuming saplings and bark, hinders native woodland regeneration. Wolf predation could naturally control deer numbers, promoting forest health and biodiversity.

Growing Support for Predator Reintroduction Over Decades

Over subsequent years, support for reintroducing wolves and other predators, like bears and lynxes, has increased. Dutch landowner Paul van Vlissingen, based in Scotland, is among those who have publicly backed rewilding initiatives.

In 2007, Imperial College London researchers suggested wolves could contribute to reforestation efforts in the Scottish Highlands and enhance regional bird biodiversity.

A decade ago, entrepreneur Paul Lister gained attention by announcing plans to release both wolves and bears at Alladale, his 23,000-acre reserve northwest of Inverness.

Yellowstone Model Inspires Rewilding Advocates

The multi-millionaire drew inspiration from Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, which witnessed ecological revitalization after wolf reintroduction in the mid-1990s.

‘The long-term goal is a fenced area of at least 50,000 acres to reintroduce wolves and bears,’ he told the BBC.

Alladale Shifts Focus Away from Wolves and Bears

However, an Alladale spokesperson clarified that they no longer intend to introduce wolves or bears, remaining silent on the timing and reasons behind this change in direction. Alladale continues to support lynx reintroduction projects in Scotland, the spokesperson confirmed.

European Predator Populations and Human Interaction

Bears, wolves, and lynx persist across mainland Europe in countries where they avoided extinction, including Sweden, Germany, and Spain. While documented wolf attacks on humans are rare, they are not inherently harmless, according to wildlife organizations. EU analysis indicates no verified fatal wolf attacks in Europe in the past 40 years.

Professor Spracklen emphasized that despite public fears, wolves pose ‘almost no threat to humans’.

‘Verified wolf attacks on humans in Europe are exceptionally rare and historically linked to rabies,’ he explained.

Understanding Bear and Lynx Behavior

Brown bears, reaching 6-7 feet tall upright, are generally less aggressive than North American grizzlies, though attacks remain possible. Human fatalities from brown bear attacks have been recorded in several European countries, according to the Wolves and Humans Foundation.

Similarly, lynx typically avoid human contact. However, farmers express concern as they are capable of killing sheep, mirroring the potential impact of wolves and bears on livestock.

Scottish Government Stance on Predator Reintroduction

Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney recently stated that lynx or other carnivore reintroductions, including wolves, are not under consideration by his government. Alladale’s spokesperson countered, arguing that the Minister’s remarks were ‘not an official government ruling’.

‘We have co-signed an open letter to the First Minister, initiated by Steve Micklewright of Trees for Life, urging him to reconsider his position based on strong public support for lynx reintroduction,’ they explained.

Public Consultation Crucial for Rewilding Success

The Wildlife Trusts emphasized the need for thorough public consultation regarding any reintroduction initiatives. Rob Stoneman, director of landscape recovery at The Wildlife Trusts, highlighted the UK’s ‘unenviable tag as one of the most nature depleted countries globally’, with significant species decline.

‘Species reintroduction is vital to reverse catastrophic nature loss. However, any such initiative requires careful planning and consultation with directly affected communities,’ Mr. Stoneman stated.

‘The success of the River Otter Beaver Trial and the subsequent legalization of wild beaver releases in England stemmed partly from strong local support.’

Zoo Experts Emphasize Wild Nature of Enclosed Predators

Brian Zimmerman, director of conservation and science at Bristol Zoological Society, commented on the animals at Bristol Zoo Project: ‘Our zoo-born bears and wolves remain fundamentally wild animals.’

‘We promote natural behaviors in a naturalistic environment, enabling foraging and woodland exploration similar to their wild counterparts.’

‘While any wild animal can be potentially dangerous, documented negative human interactions are often linked to human encroachment on their habitats. Generally, wild animals prefer to avoid human contact out of fear.’