Astonishing 916% Increase in Breeding Birds Seen at England’s Premier Rewilding Project

England’s most renowned rewilding initiative has reported an extraordinary 916% surge in breeding bird populations since the project’s inception, highlighting the remarkable benefits of restoring natural habitats.

Remarkable Bird Population Growth

The Knepp Estate in West Sussex, widely recognized for its pioneering rewilding efforts, has witnessed a dramatic rise in the number of breeding territories for birds. Surveys conducted over the last two decades reveal that the number of breeding pairs has soared from 38 in 2003 to 386 in 2023.

This impressive increase underscores the positive impact of rewilding—an approach that allows nature to reclaim and shape the landscape, fostering biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Transformation Through Rewilding

Once intensively farmed, the 3,500-acre Knepp Estate underwent a major transformation starting in 2001. Traditional agricultural practices were replaced with a focus on natural processes, including the introduction of free-roaming animals such as cattle, pigs, and ponies to mimic the effects of wild grazers.

Over time, this shift has led to the return of a variety of native flora and fauna, creating a mosaic of habitats that support a wide range of species.

Key Bird Species Benefiting

• Nightingale: The estate now supports one of the largest populations of nightingales in the UK, a species that has declined sharply elsewhere.
• Turtle Dove: Knepp has become a stronghold for the endangered turtle dove, offering crucial breeding grounds.
• White Stork: The project has successfully reintroduced white storks, with several pairs now nesting and raising chicks on the estate.

Broader Ecological Gains

The resurgence of birdlife is just one aspect of Knepp’s ecological revival. The estate has also seen increases in insects, mammals, and plant diversity, contributing to a healthier and more resilient ecosystem.

Rewilding at Knepp has inspired similar projects across the UK and beyond, demonstrating that giving nature space and time can yield extraordinary results for wildlife and people alike.

Looking Ahead

With the ongoing success at Knepp, conservationists and landowners are encouraged to consider rewilding as a viable strategy for restoring biodiversity. The project’s achievements offer hope for reversing declines in wildlife and building a more sustainable relationship with the natural world.