Nature's Comeback in Action
Across Europe, ambitious rewilding projects are transforming landscapes and bringing back native species. Organizations like Rewilding Europe are leading this ecological revolution, working in 12 countries to restore natural processes.
Key Rewilding Hotspots
In Portugal's Greater Côa Valley, rewilders are reintroducing semi-wild horses and cattle to create mosaic landscapes. These grazing animals reduce wildfire risk while creating habitats for roe deer and Iberian ibex. The project also advocates for biological corridors to reconnect fragmented habitats.
The Danube Delta rewilding area showcases another success story. Here, Tauros cattle and water buffalo herds now shape the landscape through natural grazing. Recent introductions of Turkmenian kulan (wild ass relatives) mark another milestone in restoring extinct species' ecological roles.
Species Making Remarkable Returns
European conservation efforts have achieved stunning results:
- European bison populations rebounding from near-extinction
- Iberian lynx numbers increasing significantly
- Vulture populations soaring with Vulture Conservation Foundation efforts
"Rewilding isn't just about animals - it's about restoring entire ecosystems," explains Hans Pohlmann of the Vulture Conservation Foundation. "When key species return, they reshape landscapes in ways humans can't replicate."
2025 Milestones and Challenges
This year marks expanded efforts in Southern Carpathians where over 100 free-roaming bison now thrive across protected forests. The Rewilding Academy continues training conservation leaders while promoting nature-based economies.
Despite progress, challenges remain. Rural depopulation creates opportunities but requires careful community engagement. Climate change impacts add complexity to restoration plans. Still, rewilders remain optimistic as more governments support these initiatives.
As Rewilding Europe celebrates its 14th year, its vision of a wilder continent grows closer to reality - one grazing herd, one returning predator at a time.