Wilder Blean Expert

We answer your most pressing questions about our ground-breaking wilding project.

In July, we released three European bison into West Blean and Thornden Woods with Wildwood Trust as part of the Wilder Blean project. 

We are so pleased to see all of the questions you have asked about this UK-first in conservation. Our expert team have been answering your questions on woodland management, what makes this project 'wilding' rather than 're-wilding', what's so fantastic about European bison as ecosystem engineers, and lots more! 

Click below to explore our most frequently asked question topics.

Bison in the woodland
Robert Canis

How is this project 'Wilding'?

Information page

This project is not about 're-wilding', it's about ‘wilding’: introducing the right “ecosystem engineer" species to the environment to improve habitats naturally.

Why European bison?

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Bison manage habitats in a way that no other animal can. Find out why bison were chosen for this pioneering project in our frequently asked questions

Kora doing monitoring work in the blean
Robert Canis

How will you measure the project's success?

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In order to demonstrate the incredible potential of wildling as a nature-based solution to the climate and nature crises, it is crucial that we monitor the Blean very carefully.

two people walking together in a grassy and wooded area with their backs facing the camera
Matthew Roberts

What does this project mean for me?

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Local people are fundamental to the success of this project. We have been holding local stakeholder group discussions so that we can hear any of your concerns and keep you informed of the project as it develops.

West Blean and Thorndon Woods

What can I expect when visiting Blean woods?

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When visiting West Blean and Thornden Woods, you might notice some changes as we have welcomed the UK's first wild bison herd. Read more about the best way to visit, whether you'll be able to catch a glimpse of the bison, and how we're ensuring yours and…

Blean Vegetation May 2022
Donovan Wright

Woodland Management

Information page

Learn about different types of woodland management from coppicing to pollarding and how they all work.

We need your help to create more space for nature

By donating to Wilder Blean, you will be helping us create a bigger, better, more biodiverse home for wildlife in Kent.