elk

 

Elk Could Roam British Wetlands Again After 3,000-Year Absence

Elk may return to the British countryside for the first time in 3,000 years under new plans led by the Wildlife Trusts.

The Derbyshire Wildlife Trust aims to reintroduce the species into two existing beaver enclosures in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, potentially paving the way for future wild releases.

Conservationists hope to show the ecological benefits of reintroducing elk, a “keystone” species that once thrived in UK wetlands.

Joanne Carnell, from Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, said they hoped to demonstrate that the “crucial ecosystem engineer can thrive in floodplain landscapes, shaping diverse habitats that benefit communities and support biodiversity recovery. It may also serve as a catalyst for engaging people in the long-term benefits of returning elk to the wild.”

This cautious, phased approach mirrors the successful reintroduction of beavers, which were first released into enclosures before being granted legal wild release status in England earlier this year.

The project is one of several backed by Rewilding Britain, which is awarding up to £15,000 to initiatives restoring species such as bison, beavers, and elk.

Rebecca Wrigley, the chief executive of Rewilding Britain, said: “Keystone species like elk, bison and beaver play a vital role in bringing nature back to life. They help repair ecosystems and shape wild places in ways that benefit wildlife, people and the climate.

“Successfully reintroducing missing species like these is absolutely crucial. It’s a complex process involving multiple stages of research and development, feasibility studies, impact assessments and community consultations. By taking the time and effort to get it right, we can create a more hopeful future for everyone.”

Known as moose in North America, European elk can weigh up to 700kg and thrive in wetland ecosystems. Their grazing encourages woodland regeneration, and their movement helps create open spaces for other species.

Elk disappeared from Britain due to hunting and habitat loss but have survived in parts of Europe, with stable populations in Scandinavia. If successful, the reintroduction would create the UK’s first wetland habitats to host both beavers and elk.

Rachel Bennett, the deputy director of wilder landscapes at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, said: “This exciting project could demonstrate how this crucial ecosystem engineer can thrive in floodplain landscapes, shaping diverse habitats that benefit communities and support biodiversity recovery. It may also serve as a catalyst for engaging people in the long-term benefits of returning elk to the wild.”

 

 

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