An animal species that used to roam Britain before being wiped out as a result of overhunting and the draining of wetlands could finally be introduced for the first time in 3,000 years. The elk, or wapiti, is the second largest species within the deer family and is known as a “keystone” species – one that is critical for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem stability.
Previous reintroduction efforts have seen the return of speicies including beavers, bison and white-tailed eagles to the British countryside. Now a conservation group is hoping to add elk to this list, having secured funding from Rewilding Britain. According to Wilder Landscapes and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, the reintroduction of this species, which act as woodland foragers and wetland grazers, is “absolutely crucial”, according to The Telegraph. Plans could be in place within three years, it has been suggested.
The Derbyshire Wildlife Trust wishes to introduce elk into two existing beaver enclosures at two nature reserves – Wellington Wetlands near Derby and Idle Valley near Retford – with the hope of demonstrating that the semiaquatic deer species should be released to roam free in the wild.
“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,” said Rachel Bennett, the deputy director of the Trust.
“It may also serve as a catalyst for engaging people in the long-term benefits of returning elk to the wild.”
European elk are closely related to the North American moose and dwell in open forest and forest-edge habitats, grazing on grasses and sedges and browsing higher-growing plants, leaves, twigs and bark. They can weigh up to 700kg (110 stone). Male elk have large, blood and nerve-filled antlers, which they shed during the warmer months.
Elk are one of three deer species that are native to the UK, alongside red and roe deer. They became extinct in the UK about 3,000 years ago as a result of over-hunting and habitat loss and were also nearly wiped out across Europe. Luckily, they are slowly making a return on the continent, with established populations in Scandinavia.
Rebecca Wrigley, 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.”
The White-tailed Eagle reintroduction project in England, led by Forestry England and the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, has successfully reintroduced the species to the Isle of Wight after a 240-year absence. In 2023, a pair bred successfully for the first time.