Rewilding Project Revives Urban Nature Reserve.
English town of Lewes has recruited local dogs to help rewild a local nature reserve, blending modern ingenuity with nature’s old ways. Inspired by a unique forest restoration effort in Chile, this project utilizes the natural antics of canine companions to spread wildflower seeds across a heavily trafficked urban reserve.
The concept is both simple and brilliant. Dogs, outfitted with special saddlebags strapped around their midsection, carry a mix of wildflower seeds and sand during their walks. As they frolic through the reserve, they disperse the seeds, mimicking the ancient role of wolves who once roamed England. These wolves, long gone since the reign of Henry VII, played a crucial role in seed dispersal by picking up seeds in their coats and depositing them far from their original location. This natural process was essential for plant reproduction and ecosystem diversity.
Dylan Walker, from the Railway Land Wildlife Trust, spearheaded this innovative approach in 2019, aiming to recreate the ecological benefits of larger herbivores like bison or wild horses, which are not feasible in an urban setting. By harnessing the daily traffic of dog walkers, Walker’s team hopes to revitalize the nature reserve’s flora and enhance biodiversity.
Dog owners like Cressida Murray have embraced the initiative with enthusiasm. Murray, who regularly walks her chocolate cocker spaniel, Bertie, on the reserve, shares her excitement about the project. “It’s amazing to think that Bertie is contributing to something as significant as rewilding our local area. It’s like we’re channeling the spirit of ancient wolves,” she told The Guardian.
This community-driven effort not only educates the public about ecological impacts but also enriches the local environment. By combining modern technology with the timeless role of wildlife, Lewes is setting a new standard for urban conservation. As the dogs trot around, they’re not just enjoying their walks—they’re actively participating in restoring their natural habitat.
Rewilding Project Information
The rewilding effort in Lewes is more than just a novel way to green an urban space—it’s a shining example of how creative thinking and community spirit can blend to make a real difference. This three-day pilot project, led by Dylan Walker from Wilderlife, Railway Land volunteers, and members from Brighton’s charity Recoverists, offered a unique and engaging approach to conservation.
The project began by examining the concept of keystone species—animals that play a crucial role in maintaining the health of their ecosystems. Wolves and aurochs, two species that once roamed the English landscape, were selected for a closer look. Though these majestic creatures are long gone, their influence on the environment is still palpable. Wolves, for instance, were once key players in the “ecology of fear,” a concept that describes how the presence of a predator can shape the behavior and distribution of other species. In this project, the “ecology of fear” was creatively simulated through playful activities involving local dogs, which added a fun and educational twist to the project.
On the other hand, the aurochs, ancient ancestors of modern cattle, were represented by creating a bull pit—a buzzing haven for wildflowers and insects that would have been a common sight if these giants were still around. This hands-on activity provided a tangible way to visualize how these lost species might have shaped the landscape, and how their absence has impacted the local environment.
The pilot project not only sparked the imagination of participants but also highlighted the potential for small-scale rewilding efforts. While the full-scale rewilding of a large urban area may not be feasible, projects like this demonstrate that meaningful environmental engagement can take place even in confined spaces. By exploring historical ecological dynamics and involving the community in fun, educational activities, Lewes is proving that rewilding can inspire and educate, even in the heart of the city.