We were having a similar discussion about this on last night's webinar about the fantastic Two Moors Pine Marten Project between Dartmoor and Exmoor. What are people's thoughts? Surely this is great for the missing part of elements in rewilding. A "landscape of fear", which may sound intimidating but in rewilding efforts, restoring apex predators to ecosystems can reshape the landscape (see Yellowstone), leading to cascading effects on prey behaviour, vegetation dynamics, and even ecosystem structure. When predators like wolves or big cats are reintroduced, prey species adjust their behavior to avoid areas of high predation risk, altering their grazing patterns and habitat use. This can have ripple effects throughout the ecosystem, promoting biodiversity and restoring ecological balance as prey populations become more vigilant and habitats diversify in response to reduced herbivore pressure. (Ecosulis, 2023; Tree, 2019; Monbiot, 2013; Laundre et al, 2010; Manning et al, 2009; Vera, 2000).
"The reintroduction of lynx, pine martens and other apex predators is needed to control the population of deer and squirrels."
Rewilding Britain Director Prof Alastair Driver was invited on BBC Radio 5 Live's 'In My Opinion' programme at 7:45 this morning to discuss why Britain's ecosystems are in such a poor state – and how species reintroductions, including predators, are key to readdressing the balance.
Catch up:
5 Live Breakfast - 22/02/2024 - BBC Sounds
bbc.co.uk
Green screen educator | Actor | Director Producer of shorts | Masters Science Green Economy candidate | ECCA Assembly Member (UNFCC and UNESCO supported) | Union Council Member ACTRA Ottawa | Retired: Federal Government
6moCity of Ottawa