Trees for Life Launches Groundbreaking ‘Missing Species Programme’ in the Scottish Highlands
Trees for Life is embarking on an innovative initiative to reintroduce four of Scotland’s lost keystone species – lynx, beavers, red squirrels, and modern-day aurochs – to the Scottish Highlands. This pioneering ‘missing species programme’ is designed to address the nature and climate crises while also providing significant benefits for local communities, particularly through nature-based tourism.
The ambitious programme is projected to require £3.6 million in funding for its first five years to achieve its objectives, which include conducting detailed habitat assessments and engaging with communities to meet Scotland’s stringent licensing requirements. To kickstart the initiative, Trees for Life has launched a supporter appeal to raise an initial £25,000, and is also seeking support from major funders such as individuals, businesses, foundations, and grant-making organizations.
Keystone species are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems, yet many of these species have disappeared from Scotland due to centuries of persecution and habitat destruction. By reintroducing the forest-dwelling red squirrel, the flood-mitigating beaver, the deer-regulating lynx, and the landscape-shaping aurochs (through their modern-day counterpart, the tauros), Trees for Life aims to restore nature on a large scale and revitalize the Highlands for the benefit of both people and wildlife.
Steve Micklewright, CEO of Trees for Life, emphasized the importance of reintroducing these keystone species to Scotland, stating, “Returning these four important architects of the wild is about reigniting the natural processes of Scotland’s ecosystems – enhancing biodiversity, combating climate change, and boosting local economies, while also providing opportunities for people to experience the magic of a wilder landscape. The Highlands can become a beacon of hope in the fight against extinction and biodiversity loss.”
Ensuring the successful coexistence of wildlife and communities is a key aspect of the programme, with a focus on engaging in thorough discussions with local stakeholders, implementing management strategies, and ensuring that residents can enjoy the social and economic benefits of these reintroductions. Meeting the standards set by NatureScot, Scotland’s nature agency, is essential for successful species reintroductions, as it allows for the restoration of nature while promoting harmony between humans and wildlife.
Beavers, for example, play a crucial role in creating wetlands that support diverse wildlife, purify water, and reduce flooding. While they may pose challenges for farmland, these issues can typically be managed effectively. The historic reintroduction of beavers to Glen Affric, facilitated by a partnership between Trees for Life and Forestry and Land Scotland, is a testament to the positive impact that these keystone species can have on the environment. Discussions are also underway to explore the potential for reintroducing beavers to the Loch Ness area in collaboration with Beaver Trust.
Through the ‘missing species programme,’ Trees for Life is committed to revitalizing Scotland’s ecosystems, promoting biodiversity, and fostering a harmonious relationship between people and wildlife in the Scottish Highlands. With the support of funding partners and local communities, this groundbreaking initiative has the potential to make a significant impact in the conservation and restoration of Scotland’s natural heritage.
