Reintroducing native species

From time to time native species have been lost from our countryside. This can happen for a variety of reasons which include persecution or over-exploitation, the effect of introducing invasive non-native species, or habitat loss. Sometimes there may be a good chance that a species can be reintroduced into an area again, but only when we can be confident that certain conditions are met, such as being sure that the reasons for it originally dying out are no longer significant. In this way we can help to restore and reinvigorate Scotland's biodiversity.

But there's lots more to it than that! So read on to find out.

National reintroductions

This applies where a species has become extinct across the whole of Scotland. We have been involved in several national reintroductions, including through the Species Action Framework:

European beaver  - The Scottish Beaver Trial is a complex new project which is looking at how beavers interact with the Scottish environment .

White-tailed eagle - The third phase in reintroducing this spectacular bird is now underway in east Scotland.

Vendace - This rare fish looks like it has been saved in the nick of time through reintroduction.

Regional reintroductions

There are also species which have become extinct in certain parts of Scotland and where attempts are being made to return them. The links below take you to the Species Action Framework accounts for a few of our current projects:

Water vole  - Work is underway to return 'Ratty' to the Trossachs.

Freshwater pearl mussel  - Pearl fishing and other activities destroyed many mussel populations, but attempts are being made to put these fascinating animals back where they belong.

Native oyster  - Bringing back the native oyster is not just a goal for biodiversity conservation, but could one day result in new, sustainable oyster fisheries.

Policies, guidelines and working with others

Reintroduction projects are usually complicated. However, there are tried and tested methods and internationally recognised guidelines that we follow. We also work with many other organisations, and help to organise the National Species Reintroduction Forum.  Find out more.